Where is Hardscrabble Pass?
Usa, north-america
42.16 km
2,773 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the heart of Colorado, smack-dab in the San Isabel National Forest. You're on Highway 96, ready to tackle Hardscrabble Pass. This baby climbs up to 9,097 feet!
Starting near Westcliffe, this paved road stretches for about 26 miles as you head west-northeast towards Wetmore. And get this – if you're feeling extra adventurous, there's a short gravel detour north of the pass that takes you even higher, up to 9,557 feet!
Now, a heads up: this road isn't for the faint of heart. It's got some seriously steep sections, hitting a 9% grade in places, plus three or four large sweeping switchbacks, so pay attention, especially on the downhill. Some bikers have even reported accidents there. But the views? Absolutely incredible!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 42.16 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,773 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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