
Where is Big Lake Knoll?
Usa, north-america
3.1 km
2,870 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Big Lake Knoll in Arizona's Apache County is calling your name. We're talking serious elevation here – 9,415 feet! This bad boy is nestled in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests and used to boast a fire lookout tower with killer views (RIP, tower, lost to flames in 2011).
The road itself? Pure off-road bliss (if you're into that sort of thing). It's unpaved from the starting point and clocks in at just under 2 miles. You'll gain about 426 feet of elevation, so expect a steady climb. A 4x4 isn't just recommended, it's practically essential!
Word to the wise: this road is usually open from April to November, conditions permitting. Always scope out the weather forecast before you head out – you don't want to get caught in a snowstorm up there! Get ready for some unforgettable scenery and a taste of Arizona's wild side.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 3.1 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,870 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
extremeWhere is Sherman Peak?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you're up for an adventure? Sherman Peak in California's Tulare County is calling! This beast of a peak sits pretty at 9,914 feet above sea level, tucked away north of Lake Isabella on the eastern edge of Sequoia National Forest. Forget pavement – you'll be bumping along Forest Service Road 33E48, a completely unpaved path that demands a 4x4. Seriously, don't even think about attempting this in anything less. It's a short but intense climb of just over 3 miles, but get ready for a leg-burning ascent! You'll gain over 2,300 feet in elevation, making for an average gradient of over 14%. Translation: it's STEEP! Plus, this road is a no-go in winter, so plan accordingly. While the summit's fire lookout days are gone, replaced by radio towers, the 360-degree views are absolutely worth the effort. Picture this: the Great Western Divide, the Sierra Crest, and miles of breathtaking scenery stretching as far as the eye can see. Get ready to soak it all in!
moderateIs the road to Cold Springs Summit paved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, road trip enthusiasts, listen up! Let me tell you about Cold Springs Summit, a hidden gem in the heart of California's Madera County. We're talking about a lofty perch sitting pretty at 7,326 feet above sea level! This is the high point along the legendary Sierra Vista Scenic Byway, also known as the "Secret Yosemite" Byway – and trust me, it lives up to the name. The whole route is a 83-mile adventure with stretches of smooth pavement and a bit of bumpy unpaved action (don't worry, your average car can handle it). Just a heads up, this beauty is a summer fling! Cold Springs Summit is typically open from June to October, giving you a limited window to experience its magic. So, is it worth the trek? Absolutely! You'll be cruising through the Sierra National Forest, soaking in views that'll make your jaw drop. Park the car, take a little woodland stroll, and BAM! You're overlooking a lush meadow, framed by towering pines, with the mighty Madera Mountain watching over everything. Plus, a quick detour down a side road leads to Chilcoot Lake, perfect for a little extra exploration! And yes, there are restrooms. Bonus!
extremeLippincott Mine Road in California is for experienced 4WD drivers and vehicles only
🇺🇸 Usa
# Lippincott Mine Road: Death Valley's Ultimate 4WD Challenge Ready for one of the most intense backcountry drives in America? Lippincott Mine Road sits right in the heart of Death Valley National Park, sandwiched between Lone Pine and Stovepipe Wells in eastern California. This 7-mile stretch of pure adrenaline connects Racetrack Valley Road to Saline Valley Road, and it's definitely not a casual Sunday drive. Here's the thing—this is 100% unpaved and built back in 1906 to access the old Lippincott Mine. The warnings at both ends say it all: "NOT MAINTAINED" and "EXPERIENCED DRIVERS USING 4X4 HIGH CLEARANCE VEHICLES ONLY." They're not exaggerating. You'll navigate narrow, winding switchbacks with cliff-edge washouts that'll make your palms sweat. In some spots, you're literally working with just a foot or two of gravel between your tire and a drop that could be hundreds of feet down. No guardrails, no cell service, no towing, no water sources—you're on your own out here. The elevation plunges from 3,876 feet to 2,256 feet, and the low-range climbing is serious work. Expect massive rocks that could wreck your undercarriage, intense Death Valley heat that'll test your cooling system (especially with canyon winds pushing from behind), and sections that have washed out repeatedly. This requires serious 4WD skills, proper gear (spare tires, shovel, survival kit, lots of water), and respect for the terrain. The payoff? Spectacular views at the saddle, an incredible sense of accomplishment, and access to one of Death Valley's wildest routes. Just know what you're getting into—this road earns its reputation as one of the most challenging drives on the planet.
hardThe road to Ben Harrison Peak in OR isn’t an easy one
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, adventure junkies! We're headed to Ben Harrison Peak in Oregon's Grant County. This beast tops out at 7,703 feet within the Umatilla National Forest's Greenhorn Mountains. Forget pavement, you'll be tackling NF-148, a rugged dirt track that's pure 4x4 territory. Think ruts, rocks, and steep climbs – some sections hit a 13% grade! You'll be grinding for about 1.6 miles, starting from Vincent Creek Road (Forest Service Road 2010) . Plan your trip between mid-June and October when the road is usually clear. Keep an eye out for old mining sites scattered around the range. The views from the top are totally worth the bumpy ride!