Where is Black Mesa in Colorado?
Usa, north-america
3.21 km
3,427 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! There's this insane road in southwestern Colorado, up in Dolores County, that you absolutely HAVE to check out. We're talking Black Mesa, sitting pretty at a whopping 11,243 feet! Just a heads up, though – it's not the same Black Mesa you might've heard about in Oklahoma.
This road is a total beast thanks to its steep climb. Think dramatic, mesa-style scenery with those rugged, worn-away rock layers that make for some epic photos.
Heads up: leave your low-riders at home, because we're talking unpaved the whole way. Forest Service Road 452 (FR 452) is the name of the game here. It's only about 2 miles from Road 52 to the top, but it’ll feel like way longer.
Important note: this beauty is seasonal. Usually, you can only access it from late spring to late fall. Winter? Forget about it. Deep snow makes it a no-go from around late October to early May.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 3.21 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,427 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
hardBlackbird Mountain
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! Blackbird Mountain Road in Idaho's Salmon River Mountains is calling your name. This isn't your average Sunday drive, though. We're talking about a legit 4x4 adventure up to 9,058 feet! The road, known as Blackbird Mountain Road, winds through the Salmon-Challis National Forest and is definitely a "treat 'em mean, keep 'em keen" kinda experience. Think gravel, rocks, bumps – the works! You'll need a solid 4x4, and a good dose of confidence because this trail is steep, and heights are involved. Winter? Forget about it. This road is snowed in. Even in good weather, be prepared for potential mud slicks. But trust me, the views from the top – especially near Funnel Lake – are worth every white-knuckle moment. Just be sure you are an experienced off-roader before you even think about tackling this beast!
moderateTerry Flat
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Ever heard of Terry Flat? Nestled way up in Apache County, Arizona, this massive meadow sits at a whopping 9,950 feet! We're talking serious altitude here, folks, making it one of Arizona's highest drives. The road, known as Terry Flat Loop Road (or Forest Service Road 56), winds its way to the base of Escudilla Mountain. Fair warning: this isn't your average Sunday drive. Expect gravel, rocks, and a generally bumpy ride. You'll definitely want a 4x4, especially if it's been raining – that mud can get real tricky! And forget about it in the winter; this road is usually snowed in. But trust me, the views are SO worth it! You're in the heart of the White Mountains, surrounded by incredible scenery. It's a quiet, peaceful ride on a road less traveled, especially gorgeous in the fall. So, if you're an experienced off-roader looking for a scenic challenge, Terry Flat needs to be on your list!
moderateBurro Pass
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, adventure seekers! We're heading to Burro Pass in Grand County, Utah – a seriously scenic spot nestled high in the La Sal Mountains. Now, the road itself (Forest Road 0240) doesn’t *quite* reach the actual pass summit (which sits at a lofty 11,200 feet). Instead, it climbs to a respectable 10,488 feet, where you'll find the Burro Pass Trailhead. The road is short and sweet – only about half a mile – but don't underestimate it! You'll definitely want a 4-wheel drive vehicle for this little jaunt. Once you reach the trailhead, the final push to the true pass is all hiking or mountain biking only. Get ready for incredible views!
hardWhere does the Fishlake Scenic Byway start and end?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up for a ride on Utah State Route 25, aka the Fishlake Scenic Byway! This paved beauty winds through the heart of Fishlake National Forest, linking the dry desert to some seriously stunning alpine scenery. We're talking about almost 30 miles (47.63 km) of road tripping between Koosharem and Highway 24 near Loa, Utah, crossing Sevier and Wayne counties. You'll skirt the shores of Fish Lake itself and cruise past Johnson Valley Reservoir. This isn't your grandma's Sunday drive – expect constant curves and ever-changing inclines as you climb from the desert floor into those lush aspen and pine forests. Now, a heads-up: while U-25 is paved and maintained year-round, winter driving can be a whole different ballgame, especially between Fish Lake and Highway 72. Think heavy snow and sneaky black ice. We're talking 9,000 feet (over 2,700 meters!), so storms can bury the road in no time. If you're hitting this route between November and April, snow chains are your friend, and definitely check the weather forecast before you go. The road itself is in great shape for any vehicle, even RVs and trailers. But that steep descent toward the SR-24 junction? Use your engine brake to save your regular brakes from overheating. Fun fact: the awesome mountain scenery around the lake? Thank ancient glaciers for that! This means the road can be narrow as it follows natural corridors and ridges. Also, keep an eye out for wildlife, especially deer and elk – they love those aspen groves at dawn and dusk. Is it worth the drive? Absolutely! If you're into high-altitude environments, this is your easy ticket to southern Utah's alpine tundra. You’ll also find yourself surrounded by dry lake beds and Ice Age leftovers. Most folks use it to hit up the boat ramps and fishing spots at Fish Lake, but the drive itself is a classic mountain adventure. One last tip: cell service can be spotty, so download those maps before you leave Koosharem. Happy travels!