
When was the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive built?
Usa, north-america
9.97 km
1,362 m
easy
Year-round
Okay, picture this: Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, nestled in Utah's Washington County. This isn't just a drive; it's a full-blown visual feast! Built back in '32, this paved road clocks in at just over 6 miles (10 km) and snakes along the Virgin River inside Zion National Park.
Starting from the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway, you'll wind your way up to about 4,468 feet (1,362 meters), ending at the Temple of Sinawava. The road even has a red tint to make the views pop!
Now, a heads-up: watch out for tricky conditions after rain and ice in winter. Normally it is a quick 20 minute drive, but you'll definitely want to budget 6-8 hours, since this road is all about the stops.
Here's the catch: from March to November, you'll need to hop on the park's shuttle since private vehicles are not allowed, but they do run constantly, especially during the busy months. However, in winter, usually weekdays in December and every day in January and February, you can cruise in your own ride. Worth it? Absolutely!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 9.97 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,362 m
- Difficulty
- easy
Related Roads in north-america
extremeHunter Mountain is a Most Tricky Scenic Drive in Death Valley NP
πΊπΈ Usa
Wanna get seriously off the beaten path? Hunter Mountain Road in Death Valley National Park, California, is calling your name! Tucked away in the park's northwest corner, this backcountry adventure climbs to a cool 7,168 feet (2,185m) in Inyo County, promising epic views between the Sierra Nevada mountains and Nevada. Spanning 10.7 miles (17.21km), this unpaved trek demands a 4x4 and a spirit for adventure. Expect a wild ride of loose rock, washboard, and stream crossings. While the road is unmaintained and super bumpy, the scenery shifts dramatically as you ascend from the valley floor. Keep your eyes peeled for narrow spots, steep climbs/descents, and potential soft sand or boulders. Remember, there are no services on this route, so fuel up and pack supplies! And a heads-up: steer clear of any old mine entrances due to potential hazards. Tell someone your plans, pack a map, and grab a backcountry permit if you're hiking. Cell service can be spotty, but 911 works in emergencies. Watch out for wildlife, especially snakes and spiders, and avoid canyons during storms. Water can suddenly appear in washes, so stay alert! During winter, snow and mud can make it impassable. Be prepared for anything!
hardRoad trip guide: Conquering Lucky Boy Pass in NV
πΊπΈ Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk Lucky Boy Pass! Nestled way up in Nevada's Mineral County, this baby sits pretty at 8,034 feet. We're talking the Wassuk Range in the Toiyabe National Forest β prime Western Nevada scenery! The road? Well, it's all dirt, all the way to the top. Lucky Boy Pass Road is mostly graded, so in dry weather, your trusty two-wheel-drive should be just fine. You'll find it near Hawthorne, and usually, you can get through any time of year, though winter weather can sometimes throw a wrench in the works. Back in the day, prospectors carved out this path, so you're following in some historic footsteps! Now, heads up: this climb is STEEP. We're talking gradients hitting 14% in spots, so get ready for a workout! Starting from paved State Road 359, it's about 8.2 miles to the top, and you'll gain a whopping 3,051 feet along the way. That averages out to about a 7% grade, so buckle up and enjoy the views!
moderateWhere is Onion Valley Road?
πΊπΈ Usa
Nestled in California's Inyo County, Onion Valley Road is a must-drive for those seeking a thrilling ascent! Picture this: you're cruising through the heart of Owens Valley, right between the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains and the vast Nevada landscape. This 13-mile stretch, formerly known as California State Route 180, kicks off from Independence on US 395 and winds its way westward to Onion Valley Campground. Typically open from May to November, Mother Nature dictates the schedule with snow conditions. Prepare for a climb! They say this is one of the toughest cycling routes in California, and it's no joke. The road gains serious altitude as you go, hitting an average grade of almost 8% over the last ten miles. Starting at around 3,937ft, you'll climb over 5,200 feet in elevation to reach a staggering 9,219ft near the top. The fully paved road features nine switchbacks, offering killer views of the Owens Valley. Keep an eye out for bears, as they're known to frequent the area! The scenery is simply breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the Owens Valley and the Sierras.
extremeEl Frunce Road
π²π½ Mexico
Okay, buckle up, adventure seekers! If you're in Durango, Mexico, and craving a thrill, this extreme mountain road is calling your name. Picture this: a crazy-narrow, mostly gravel track clinging to the side of the Huahuapan canyon (Bacis River). Seriously, two cars passing at the same time? Forget about it! This wild ride connects Vencedores town (perched at a cool 2,470m) down to Sapiores (a much lower 1,110m) and a mine called Mina Bacis. The views? Absolutely mind-blowing! Think endless mountain vistas that'll make your jaw drop. But a word of warning: if you're not a fan of heights, this one might make you a little queasy. Get ready for an unforgettable β and slightly hair-raising β experience!