Where Is Babbitt Peak?
Usa, north-america
9.65 km
2,664 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, road trip lovers, listen up! I just found the *perfect* little escape in Northern California's Tahoe National Forest: Babbitt Peak!
First things first, you're gonna be high – literally! We're talking 8,740 feet above sea level! The road itself, County Road S860 (Smithneck Road), is about 6 miles long and will climb 2,470 feet, so buckle up for an average gradient of 7.8%, and some ramps hit a max of 13.1%!
The road is unpaved, but most 2WD vehicles *should* be able to handle it – though a high-clearance vehicle is always a good call for peace of mind.
At the summit, you'll find a fire lookout built in 1937. From up there, the views of the Northern Sierra Nevada are unreal! You can see Davis Lake, Stampede Reservoir, Cold Springs, Nevada, and Crystal Peak.
Word to the wise: this road is totally impassable in winter. It's on the northern edge of the Sierra Nevada, so plan accordingly!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 9.65 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,664 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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