Where are the 11 Steepest Streets in the USA? See the Ranking, including Waipio Valley's 45% Descent
Usa, north-america
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extreme
Year-round
# America's Most Insanely Steep Streets: A Jaw-Dropping Road Trip
Ready to experience some seriously wild driving? The USA is absolutely packed with some of the planet's steepest paved urban roads, and we're talking legitimately bonkers gradients. At the top of our list sits Hawaii's mind-blowing Waipio Valley Road, dropping at a jaw-dropping 45% – seriously, you'll feel like you're descending into another dimension.
Here's where it gets interesting: California is basically the steep-street capital of America. Eight out of the eleven most extreme slopes are scattered across the Golden State, with LA and San Francisco being the absolute hotspots for these gravity-defying stretches. We're not talking about quirky Instagram fodder here – roads steeper than 30% are serious business. Your standard vehicle will struggle big time, many require four-wheel drive to even attempt, and during rain or snow? Most are straight-up closed to traffic.
Want to explore these legendary routes yourself? Check out our interactive map and dive into the most incredible roads across the globe. Whether you're a thrill-seeking driver or just curious about these extreme landscapes, there's something awe-inspiring waiting for you.
Got a road in mind that should be on everyone's bucket list? We've got our eyes on over 13,000 cataloged routes, and we're always hunting for the next legendary stretch. Think you know a hidden gem that deserves the spotlight? Drop us a line – you might just help us feature the next great discovery.
Where is it?
Where are the 11 Steepest Streets in the USA? See the Ranking, including Waipio Valley's 45% Descent is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 42.8806, -97.3674
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 42.8806, -97.3674
Related Roads in north-america
moderateWhere is Lakeview Drive?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up for a quirky road trip on the Road to Nowhere, near Bryson City, North Carolina! Tucked away in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this isn't just a drive; it's a journey into history and maybe a little bit of the paranormal! Where does this road actually go? Lakeview Drive winds along Fontana Lake's northern edge inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, close to the Tennessee border. Both sections offer access to hiking trails and stunning views of the mountains and lake. How long is it? The Road to Nowhere clocks in at 6.5 miles, broken into two parts. The first bit is a short 0.7 miles near Fontana Dam. The second, longer stretch runs 5.8 miles until... well, you'll see. Is it paved? Yep, it's fully paved, making it fine for cars and a challenging workout for cyclists. But heads up, it's curvy, so pay attention behind the wheel! What's the story? Back in the '40s, residents had to move to make way for Fontana Lake. The government promised a road, Lakeview Drive, to reconnect folks and access cemeteries. They started building in the '60s, but stopped in '71 because of environmental issues, unstable rock, and cost. Now, there's a six-mile stretch ending at a tunnel! Why "Road to Nowhere?" That name comes from its unfinished state. The eastern section dead-ends at a 1,200-foot tunnel. It's a remote, isolated place with a bit of a spooky vibe. What's so scenic? Lakeview Drive boasts several viewpoints, like the Fontana Lake Overlook, plus access to the Noland Creek Trails. Get ready for creekside views, mountain vistas, and a whole lot of peace and quiet. Perfect for photos! What trails can I hike? The road gives you access to: Noland Creek Trail North and South: Hike along the creek for forest and water views. The South Trail is a one-mile loop to Fontana Lake. Goldmine Loop Trail: A loop connecting to Lakeshore Trail. Forney Creek Trail: Follows where the road was supposed to go, linking both segments and offering campsites. So, what's at the end? The eastern segment ends at a long tunnel, only accessible on foot. Bring a flashlight – it's dark in there! The other side leads to more hiking trails. Why does everyone think it's haunted? The Road to Nowhere is known for paranormal activity. The tunnel is super eerie at night—cold wind, echoing voices, and total darkness. Its isolation, the tunnel, and the backstory make it a hotspot for ghost hunters! Why is it important? It's a reminder of the past: communities displaced, environmental concerns, and broken promises. In 2010, Swain County got $52 million instead of the road, officially ending the 1943 agreement. Can I drive or bike it? The paved road is good for cars and a challenging bike ride. Cyclists love the curves and views, especially in the fall. You can also fish for trout along Noland Creek or just relax at an overlook. Anything else I should know? Prepare for a remote, winding drive. Drive carefully due to curves and drop-offs. Bring flashlights for the tunnel, and note that some trails are strenuous. Weather changes fast in the mountains, so check the forecast!
hardSaddleback Mountain
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, thrill-seekers, listen up! If you're in Colorado and craving a serious off-road adventure, Saddleback Mountain is calling your name. We're talking a lung-busting climb to 9,327 feet (2,843m) in Clear Creek County. The road? Well, let's just say it's not for the faint of heart. Beaver Brook Canyon Road is a rugged mix of gravel and rocks that demands respect—and probably a 4x4. Winter? Forget about it, this road is closed. It's steep, it's high, and if you're not comfortable with unpaved mountain tracks, maybe skip this one. But if you're up for the challenge, the views from the top are totally worth the white-knuckle drive!
hardWhere is Ohio Pass in Colorado?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Ohio Pass in Colorado is calling your name! Nestled in Gunnison County, this stunner of a pass hits a whopping 10,078 feet above sea level. Think panoramic views and that crisp mountain air! You'll find it in the western part of Colorado, right in the heart of the Gunnison National Forest. History buffs will dig that a wagon road was carved through here way back in 1879. The road itself, Ohio Pass Road (County Road 730), is a 23.2-mile stretch of pure Colorado bliss connecting CO-135 near Gunnison to Kebler Pass Scenic Drive. Word to the wise: you'll be off the grid with no cell service, so download those maps beforehand! Heads up: this road is usually snowed in from November to May. The first 12.3 miles are smooth paved sailing. After that, it's gravel and dirt, but generally well-maintained. Most 2WD vehicles can cruise through in the summer, but super low riders might want to sit this one out. Also, leave the mega-RV and boat trailer at home; things get a little tight up near the summit. Be prepared for some climbs, too – a few sections hit a 10% gradient. All in all, it's a bucket-list drive!
moderateIs Antelope Creek Road unpaved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! If you're cruising around central Arizona and want a taste of the wild west, Antelope Creek Road is calling your name. This isn't your average highway – we're talking a 12.5-mile dirt track (aka County Road 74) that'll take you on a ride from Mayer down to County Road 59. Most cars can handle it when it's dry, so no need for a monster truck! This route was a lifeline back in the day for ranchers and miners, so you're basically traveling through history as you follow Antelope Creek towards the old ghost town of Cordes Station. The road climbs up to about 4,394 feet, and the views of the Bradshaw Mountains? Seriously stunning. The best part? It's usually open year-round, so you can get your adventure fix whenever the mood strikes. Get ready for some dusty fun!