Where is California Route 36?
Usa, north-america
400 km
1,757 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because Route 36 in California is a ride you won't soon forget! This epic stretch winds its way for 248 miles across Northern California, snaking through six different counties. Tracing its roots back to the Gold Rush era, this road is basically a history lesson with a serious side of hairpin turns.
We're talking around 1,811 curves in just 140 miles! Seriously, this road is a twisty-turny paradise, a rollercoaster carved into the landscape that seems custom-made for motorcycles. Give yourself about six hours to soak it all in, because you'll be traversing a crazy diverse range of landscapes and climates.
The road peaks at 5,764 feet above sea level, so expect some elevation changes. This isn't a Sunday drive; it demands your full attention. Watch out for logging trucks. While the pavement is generally smooth, it can get a bit rougher in the western sections, and the centerline occasionally vanishes. And heads up: there are plenty of spots with serious drop-offs and no guardrails, so keep your eyes peeled.
Make sure you're gassed up and that someone knows your route, because cell service is spotty at best. And maybe skip this one at night or in iffy weather. But if you're looking for a scenic and challenging ride, Route 36 is a total legend. Get ready for some serious white-knuckle fun!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 400 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,757 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
moderateCan I drive to Mount Mitchell in North Carolina?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk about Mount Mitchell! This giant in Yancey County, North Carolina, isn't just tall; at 6,584 feet, it's the highest point east of the Mississippi! You'll find it about 35 miles northeast of Asheville, beckoning you from the Blue Ridge Mountains. The road to the top, NC 128, is a fully paved, 4.5-mile stretch that starts from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Heads up—it can get a bit crowded, especially on weekends. This two-lane road winds gently as you enter Mount Mitchell State Park. Get ready for a climb! Some sections of the road hit almost 10% grade! Starting from the Parkway, you'll gain over 1400 feet, averaging around a 6% grade. This road is usually open year-round. That said, keep an eye on the weather – if the Blue Ridge Parkway shuts down due to snow or ice, you're out of luck. Heavy winds can also put a damper on things. Pack a jacket – it’s often 10-30 degrees cooler than Asheville up there, and the weather can change on a dime! Rain gear is a good idea if you plan to hike. The summit is often shrouded in clouds and fog (like, 8 out of 10 days often!). So, check the Asheville forecast and aim for a clear day. For winter road conditions, call the Park office at 828-675-4611. But the views? Oh, the views! They are unmatched! Think sweeping vistas of the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling hills, and lush valleys. The 1,946-acre Mount Mitchell State Park offers tranquility and breathtaking beauty. The summit boasts an observation deck where, on a clear day, you can see for 85 miles! Plus, there's a museum, a shop, restrooms, and even a restaurant (open spring to fall) to complete your experience.
extremeWhere is San Antonio Mountain?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure-seekers, listen up! You HAVE to check out San Antonio Mountain in northern New Mexico. Nestled in the Carson National Forest, this bad boy tops out at 10,941 feet! The road to the summit? Forget pavement – it's all about that sweet, sweet dirt (Forest Road 418 to be exact). Seriously, you're gonna need a 4x4 for this one. It's a climb, with some seriously steep parts and ten – count 'em, TEN – hairpin turns to keep you on your toes. Clocking in at just over 4 miles from US Highway 285, you'll gain a whopping 2,500 feet in elevation! That's an average gradient of 11.5%, so get ready to work for those views. Speaking of views, you're in the San Juan Mountains, part of the Rockies, so expect stunning scenery. Just a heads up, though: winter up here is no joke. This road is usually impassable, so plan your trip for the warmer months. And be sure to check out the comms facilities at the very top!
moderateWhere is Silver Lake?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: Silver Lake, tucked away high in the Oregon mountains. Just north of this stunning lake, a rugged gravel road climbs to an epic viewpoint at 11,164 feet. This isn't your Sunday drive – this is an *adventure*. We're talking a totally unpaved road, all gravel and rocks. Think narrow sections, serious drop-offs that'll make your palms sweat, and a roadbed that's more like a boulder field. High-clearance vehicles *only*, people! This old mining road climbs a quick 2.6 miles, but packs in a punch with a major elevation gain. The scenery? Unreal. But be warned, Mother Nature shuts this show down in the winter with snow and harsh conditions. It’s impassable!
hardAdventure along the wild road to Little White Mountain in BC
🇨🇦 Canada
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Little White Mountain in British Columbia is calling your name! This isn't your Sunday drive kind of peak. We're talking a 2,142m (7,027ft) climb into the Canadian wild. Found perched near the Okanagan Valley, overlooking the eastern side of Okanagan Lake, getting to the top is an adventure in itself. Forget pavement – this is a pure off-road experience. Seriously, a 4x4 isn't just recommended; it's essential. The last 5km are no joke, think narrow ledges and boulder fields right beside some serious drop-offs. Starting from Kelowna, you've got a 25.1 km (15.59 miles) trek ahead of you, with some sections hitting a crazy steep 18% gradient! Keep in mind, this is a summer/early fall kind of trip – usually open from July to October, weather permitting. But trust me, the views are worth it! Once you reach the top, you're rewarded with 360-degree panoramas of the lake and valley. The mountain itself? It's named after some guy named Thomas White, but honestly, the views are the real stars here. Get ready for an unforgettable ride!