
Where is Apache Summit?
Usa, north-america
N/A
N/A
hard
Year-round
Okay, buckle up, road trip enthusiasts! You absolutely HAVE to experience Apache Summit! You'll find this gem nestled high up in the Sierra Blanca Mountains within the Mescalero Reservation in New Mexico. We're talking serious altitude here, folks! This isn't a long haul β just a hop between Lincoln and Otero Counties β but trust me, it packs a punch. The paved road throws some serious curves your way with ramps hitting a maximum gradient of 12.9%! So, yeah, keep your eyes on the road. But don't forget to glance up β the scenery is absolutely breathtaking.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Difficulty
- hard
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