
Where is Fandango Pass?
Usa, north-america
24.46 km
1,879 m
hard
Year-round
Alright, adventure seekers, let's talk Fandango Pass! This hidden gem sits way up in Modoc County, California, chilling at a cool 6,164 feet. You'll find it nestled in the Modoc National Forest, pretty darn close to the Oregon border, between Upper Alkali Lake and Goose Lake. History buffs, listen up: this is where the legendary Applegate and Lassen Trails meet!
The road itself? It's a well-kept gravel road called Fandango Pass Road (aka County Road 9), totally doable in most cars, weather permitting, of course. Just be ready for a bit of a thrill ride, with some seriously steep climbs, squeeze-through narrow spots, and hairpin turns galore!
Clocking in at just over 15 miles, this beauty winds its way from US-395 to Surprise Valley Road. So, if you're looking for a scenic detour with a side of adventure, Fandango Pass is calling your name!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 24.46 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,879 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
moderateDriving Interstate 90 to Homestake Pass in the Rocky Mountains of Montana
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip lovers, let's talk Homestake Pass in beautiful Montana! This paved beauty sits at a cool 6,410 feet up in the Rocky Mountains, right on the Jefferson/Silver Bow county line. You'll find it nestled inside the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. We're talking Interstate 90 here, and Homestake Pass marks its highest point on that massive, cross-country highway. Fun fact: when I-90 was built, they chose this route over Pipestone Pass for an easier crossing of the Continental Divide. Smart move, Montana! The stretch we're interested in is about 25 miles long, connecting Butte to Whitehall. And while it's usually open year-round, keep an eye on the weather in the winter. Mother Nature can be a bit unpredictable, and you might find a temporary closure due to snow or ice.
moderateA bumpy paved road to Ski Apache in New Mexico
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk about Ski Apache in New Mexico! Perched way up high in Lincoln County, this ski resort sits at a dizzying 9,803 feet! Seriously, if you're not a fan of heights, maybe take a friend who's comfortable driving. You'll find Ski Apache nestled near Ruidoso, right in the heart of the Lincoln National Forest in southern New Mexico. Getting there is an experience itself. You'll cruise along New Mexico Highway 532, or as the locals call it, Ski Run Road. It's a paved road, thankfully, but hold on tight—it's a bit steep and bumpy. From Alto (off NM-48), it's about 11.9 miles to the top. Speaking of the top, you'll be scaling the Sierra Blanca slopes until you reach a whopping 10,098 feet! The road's generally open year-round, but keep an eye on the weather during winter. Things can change fast, and they might close it down temporarily. Snow chains could be a lifesaver, too. Now, for the thrill-seekers: this road is STEEP. We're talking a maximum 12% gradient on some of those ramps! Plus, those hairpin turns mean you'll be testing your brakes on the way down. It’s easily one of the twistiest roads in New Mexico. Some spots have barriers, but others? Well, let's just say you get some incredible views... straight down.
extremeWhat is the route of the road to Jaybird Peak?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! I've just explored a seriously epic route in southeastern Wyoming that you NEED to add to your list: Jaybird Peak! Nestled in Albany County, inside the Laramie Mountains, this pass tops out at a cool 7,732 feet (2,357m) within the Medicine Bow National Forest. Okay, so here's the deal: you'll be cruising along Esterbrook Road, connecting the dots between somewhere near Laramie and the tiny town of Esterbrook. This isn't your Sunday drive; it's a 28.2-mile unpaved adventure through rugged terrain! Think pine forests, rocky outcroppings, and pure Wyoming wilderness. Word to the wise: forget pavement; it's all gravel and dirt on this road. A 4x4 vehicle isn't just recommended, it's practically essential. Expect rocky sections, mud pits (especially after rain), and a real test of your off-roading skills. And heads up on the weather! This road is no joke when conditions turn south. Winter brings heavy snow, ice, and potential landslides, so avoid it at all costs during the colder months. The sweet spot for this drive is late spring to early fall, when the road is (hopefully) dry. Always check the forecast before you go – seriously! So, is it worth it? Absolutely! If you crave solitude, wildlife sightings, and a true taste of the Wyoming backcountry, Jaybird Peak is calling your name. Just remember to be prepared, respect the environment, and get ready for an unforgettable ride!
hardWhere is Mount Morgan?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, fellow adventurers, let me tell you about Mount Morgan in California's Inyo County. This place is seriously epic! We're talking about a gravel road that claws its way up to a whopping 11,873 feet—that's one of the highest roads you'll find in California! Nestled in the eastern Sierra Nevada, within the John Muir Wilderness, getting here is an adventure in itself. Word to the wise: don't drink the water east of Morgan Pass down to Pine Creek; old mining stuff lingers there. The name? It's a shout-out to J. H. Morgan from way back in 1878. Heads up: winter shuts this road down completely. It's an old, unpaved tungsten mine road, so a 4x4 with high clearance is a MUST. The climb kicks off from the paved road, stretching for 6.7 miles, and gains a hefty 4,045 feet in elevation. That's an average grade of over 11%! But trust me, those views from the top are worth every bump and grind. Seriously, you won't regret it!