Where is Bald Mountain?
Usa, north-america
N/A
N/A
extreme
Year-round
Alright, thrill-seekers, let's talk Bald Mountain in Colorado's Summit County! This isn't your average Sunday drive – we're talking a rugged, unpaved adventure up Baldy Road (aka County Road 520).
Tucked away north of Breckenridge in the Arapaho National Forest, this old mining trail is steep! You'll be crawling up a maximum 23.3% gradient in spots, so a 4x4 with good clearance is a MUST. Don't even think about it without one.
The climb is worth it, though. In just over 3.5 miles, you’ll gain almost 2300 feet. The average gradient is 12.38% During your climb you might notice the solar-powered communications shack near the top. Once you pass the electrical hut with its radio antennas, you know you've reached the end of the line.
Keep an eye on the weather. This road clings to the Front Range of the Rockies and is only typically open in the summer and early fall. Snow can linger, and those afternoon thunderstorms can roll in quick, so be prepared for exposure! The 360-degree views from the summit are absolutely incredible!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Difficulty
- extreme
Related Roads in north-america
hardHow long is the Kane Creek Canyon Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! If you're anywhere near Moab, Utah, you NEED to check out Kane Creek Canyon Road. Seriously, this isn't just a drive, it's an adventure. Spanning about 13.4 miles in San Juan County, this trail isn't for the faint of heart. We're talking countless creek crossings - you'll lose count, easily over 60! The path winds along the canyon floor, a wild ride from US-191 to County Road 145. Give yourself plenty of time to savor this gem; it's not a quick zip. This trail is super popular, especially during holidays, and there are tons of awesome camping spots nearby. Now, let's get real. This road demands respect. Experienced drivers only! You'll want a high-clearance SUV or ATV to tackle those steep climbs and drops, soft sand, and rocky sections. Be prepared for potential ledges, waterfalls, deep mud, and loose dirt. Even when the creek seems calm, you might encounter water up to 4 feet deep! The road's always changing due to erosion, but they usually keep it in decent shape. Keep a close eye on the weather, as heavy rain can make things impassable, and flash floods are a real concern in this narrow canyon. Some sections near the creek can wash out completely. Be alert and always check conditions before you go!
hardFowler-Hilliard Hut
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're looking for a real off-road challenge in the heart of Colorado's Eagle County, point your rig toward Eiseman Hut. Perched way up high at 11,522 feet, accessing this mountain refuge is not for the faint of heart. The "road," and I use that term loosely, is a super steep, gravelly beast with switchbacks that'll make your head spin. Seriously, think twice about driving it unless you’re in a proper 4x4 and know what you're doing. This isn’t a Sunday drive, folks. Typically, you can expect the route to be clear of snow from June to October, but even in summer, be ready for some wild weather changes. Built back in '88, the hut itself is a tribute to mountaineers Ann Fowler and Ed Hilliard, so the views are incredible. Just remember, preparation is key if you want to conquer this one!
hardWhere is Mountain Springs Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're cruisin' through the Mojave Desert in sunny Southern California, ready for a little off-the-beaten-path adventure. That's where Mountain Springs Road comes in! This isn't your typical smooth highway. It's mostly unpaved – think dusty desert vibes – but don't worry, there are paved sections at the beginning and end to ease you in. Just be warned, it gets pretty steep in places! Mountain Springs Road is your gateway to the radio station perched atop a 3,599-foot peak, offering views that'll make your jaw drop. Clocking in at just over 6 miles, this north-south route connects you from County Route 66, near the quirky town of Goffs, all the way to Mountain Springs Summit where you hit the paved comfort of I-40. So, if you're looking for a taste of the real desert with a dash of elevation, Mountain Springs Road is calling your name!
moderateKolob Terrace Road is a very scenic drive into the mountains of Utah
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along Kolob Terrace Road in Utah, a hidden gem snaking through Zion National Park. Forget the crowds, this 40.5-mile paved road is the park's best-kept secret, linking Virgin (yes, that's the town's name!) with Cedar City. Give yourself about an hour and a half for a non-stop adventure. You'll wind in and out of the park, feasting your eyes on views that most visitors miss. Be warned: this road climbs steeply from Virgin into the forested Kolob Terrace, so your car will work for its views! You'll be soaring over 8,000 feet! At its highest point, near Kolob Reservoir, you'll hit 8,162 feet above sea level. Heads up if you're visiting in winter, the upper stretches past Hop Valley Trailhead might be snowed in. Below 6,000 feet, you should be clear. But the real star of the show? The scenery! This drive is a feast for the eyes, with classic Zion vistas unfolding at every turn. Fun fact: Keep an eye out for familiar scenery, as some scenes from "Butch Cassidy & The Sundance Kid" were filmed here!