Where is Denver Pass?
Usa, north-america
3.37 km
3,660 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're in southwestern Colorado, about 14 miles northeast of Silverton, ready for an off-road adventure. You're heading for Denver Pass, sitting pretty at 12,007 feet above sea level, south of the legendary Engineer Mountain.
Now, this isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking a completely unpaved road – a real 4x4 job! The route, known as the "Road to Denver Pass," starts near the ghost town of Animas Forks and it's a wild 2.1-mile climb with some seriously steep sections hitting a 10% grade. You'll gain 777 feet in elevation.
Oh, and keep in mind, this road is usually snowed in from October to June, so plan your trip accordingly. But if you can make it up there, you'll be rewarded with killer views. Plus, there's a gorgeous lake just near the summit.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 3.37 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,660 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
moderateCan you drive to Naylor Lake in CO?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you're looking for a quick mountain escape in Colorado? Check out Naylor Lake! Nestled in the Arapaho National Forest, high up in the Rockies (we're talking 11,404 feet!), this spot offers serious alpine vibes. Getting there? Okay, the road (Naylor Lake Road/381) is unpaved and a bit rough, but most cars can make it to the parking lot. Word to the wise: that parking lot fills up FAST on weekends, so weekdays are your best bet. Once you pass that parking area, you'll need a 4x4. And just a heads up: the lake itself is private property, so admire from afar! The unpaved section from the main road is only about 1.1 miles long. But remember, this road is typically closed from late October until late June/early July, so plan your visit accordingly!
extremeIs the road to Heckman Pass in BC paved?
🇨🇦 Canada
Get ready for Heckman Pass, a wild ride in west-central British Columbia, Canada! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking a 75.6 km (46.97 miles) stretch of mostly unpaved road, AKA Highway 20, also known as the Chilcotin Bella Coola Highway. You'll find it west of Anahim Lake, marking the spot where the Chilcotin Plateau dives into the Bella Coola Valley. Locals call it 'The Hill', and for good reason. Built back in 1953, this road is a testament to grit and determination. Imagine two bulldozers, a promise of payment, and a whole lot of elbow grease carving a path through the Rainbow Range. It took them just over a year to complete this lifeline, now often referred to as "Freedom Road" by those who remember the isolation before. The pass peaks at 1,524m (5,000ft) and the views? Stunning. But hold on tight! The most talked-about part is a 10 km section of steep switchbacks. We're talking up to 18% grades and 11 hairpin curves that'll test your brakes. This narrow dirt road clings to a cliff face, where only a tiny wall separates you from a major drop. No guardrails here, folks! Locals take it seriously, knowing a slip could mean a long tumble. Standard cars can handle it, but pay attention, especially downhill, or those wheels might just slip out from under you. Allow about an hour to drive it. Oh, and remember, winter tires or chains are a must from October 1 to April 30.
moderateCottonwood Canyon Road in Utah: adventure and beauty, not for everyone
🇺🇸 Usa
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure on Cottonwood Canyon Road, a scenic byway winding through Kane County, Utah, just north of Page, Arizona, and nestled in the stunning Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Also known as K7000 or Cottonwood Canyons Scenic Backway, this 74km (46-mile) dirt road connects Cannonville with Highway 89, near Big Water. Originally a maintenance road for power lines, it's now a pathway to incredible views! The road is usually open year-round, *weather permitting*, and takes around 2 hours to drive, depending on how many photo stops you make! The first 9 miles from Cannonville are paved until you reach the turnoff for Kodachrome Basin State Park. After that, it's graded dirt with a clay base that becomes an absolute mud pit when wet. While a hardy 2WD car can handle it in dry conditions, a 4x4 is definitely more comfortable. But beware, even SUVs can get stuck after rain! This road transforms into a slippery mess when wet, and flash floods can wash out sections, especially during summer thunderstorms. The surface can also be rough in places due to less maintenance recently. This road is NOT suitable for RVs or trailers. Before you go, check conditions at the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Visitor Center in Cannonville. There are no services along the route, so pack food, water, and emergency supplies. And remember, if rain or snow is forecast, stay away!
moderateHighest paved roads in the USA
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along the Beartooth Highway (US 212) right at the Wyoming state line. This isn't just any drive; it's an experience! You're tackling serious elevation, so expect some thinner air. The road winds and climbs, but the views? Absolutely epic! Think wide-open skies and a real sense of being on top of the world. Keep an eye on the weather, though – mountain conditions can change in a heartbeat.