When did Route 66 start?
Usa, north-america
3,200 km
1,082 m
easy
Year-round
Okay, picture this: Route 66, the "Mother Road," stretching over 2,000 miles of pure Americana from the Windy City all the way to sunny Santa Monica. This legendary highway cuts a diagonal path through the heart of the US, taking you through Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona.
The highest point sits at 3,550 feet above sea level.
Now, give yourself around 13 days to soak it all in. Don't expect an easy ride — signage can be sparse and it's not on your standard map.
You'll be cruising on the same road that Easy Rider made famous. Get ready for an epic adventure!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 3,200 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,082 m
- Difficulty
- easy
Related Roads in north-america
extremeConclusion: Strategic Vigilance on SR 99
🇺🇸 Usa
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hardNeedles Eye in South Dakota is a nerve-racking tunnel if you have a big vehicle
🇺🇸 Usa
# Needles Eye: A Granite Adventure in South Dakota Want to experience one of South Dakota's most unforgettable drives? Head to Custer County and tackle Needles Highway—a stunning 14-mile stretch of scenic road that winds through the Black Hills' iconic granite formations. This section of Highway 87 is part of the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway, and it's absolutely worth the detour. The main attraction? The Needles Eye tunnel itself, a one-lane passage carved straight through solid granite with dimensions of just 8 feet 4 inches wide by 12 feet high. It's genuinely the narrowest tunnel in South Dakota, making it equal parts thrilling and claustrophobic (though totally manageable if you're not severely phobic). You'll share the road with other tourists and the occasional charter bus, so confidence in your vehicle's size is key. RV and large trailer owners? This might not be your jam. For details on tunnel specs and current conditions, swing by the visitor center. Fair warning: this isn't a speedy drive. Budget 45 minutes to over an hour for the full journey—and honestly, you'll probably find yourself crawling along at 20 mph just to soak in the scenery. The narrow, winding road with hairpin turns and granite needle formations means you'll want to pause frequently at pullouts rather than rush through. The asphalt is well-maintained, and nearly all traffic consists of leisurely sightseers. Nestled in Custer State Park, this road was meticulously planned by former Governor Peter Norbeck, who actually mapped the entire route on foot and horseback. It was finished in 1922, and it's been drawing visitors ever since. Keep in mind: the road typically closes from mid-October through early April due to snow, so plan your visit for warmer months. There's an entrance fee for the park, but trust us—it's worth every penny.
moderateA memorable road trip to Currant Summit in NV
🇺🇸 Usa
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easyHow long is Gold Butte Back Country Byway in NV?
🇺🇸 Usa
Craving a desert escape? The Gold Butte Back Country Byway in Nevada's Clark County is calling your name! This 62-mile dirt road adventure starts south of Mesquite off NV 170 and winds its way south to the historic Gold Butte mining town. The first 24 miles are a breeze on a paved road, perfect for any car. After Devil's Throat, you'll find a well-maintained gravel section that's also passenger-car friendly. But hold on, adventure seekers! Heading west from Devil's Throat, things get real with a lightly maintained dirt road that begs for a high-clearance, 2WD or 4WD vehicle. Seriously, for the full experience, a high-clearance 4x4 is your best bet. But is it worth it? Absolutely! You'll be plunged into some of Southern Nevada’s most stunning desert landscapes. Think open desert vistas leading to Whitney Pocket, a hidden gem of red and white sandstone formations. Keep heading south and you'll hit iconic spots like Gold Butte Townsite and Devil's Throat, all surrounded by unbelievable scenery. Camping and hiking? You bet! Keep your eyes peeled for desert critters, ancient petroglyphs, curious sinkholes, and those incredible red and white sandstone formations. Now, a word of caution: this is a seriously remote area. We're talking vast, desolate desert. There are ZERO services out here – no restrooms, water, gas, or food. You need to be totally self-sufficient. Pack more than you think you'll need, just in case. A BLM Ranger patrols the area, but it’s a huge place, so be prepared to survive on your own for a day or two. When to go? March and April are prime time, with dazzling wildflower displays. After May, it gets HOT. Avoid visiting between June and mid-September unless you're a lizard.