
Where is Harrat Uwayrid?
Arabian Peninsula, asia
2.5 km
1,226 m
hard
Year-round
Alright adventurers, buckle up for Harrat Uwayrid, a crazy climb in Saudi Arabia's AlUla region! Picture this: you're in the ancient oasis of Al-Ula, surrounded by the stunning Hejaz landscape. This isn't your average Sunday drive.
Locals call it "Skyviews of Harrat Uwayrid" and the name fits. The views of the city are incredible. It's become famous for hosting a grueling cycling race right through the desert - think wind, sand, freezing nights and scorching days.
So, how tough is it? Let’s just say it's brutal. We're talking gradients hitting 22% that will leave your legs screaming. Even cars struggle with this one! The final 2.5 km average a 12.8% gradient, but that's deceiving, because the first kilometer of that is a ridiculous 17.1% average, spiking to 22%. You're gaining over 400 meters of elevation in a tiny distance. Seriously, it's a wall.
The whole climb starts from the Winter Park Visitor Center and stretches for 16.1 km (10 miles), twisting and turning with 4 hairpin turns. The payoff? A parking lot at the summit dotted with communication towers and bragging rights for conquering one of the toughest climbs out there. Trust me, it's worth the trip.
Road Details
- Country
- Arabian Peninsula
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 2.5 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,226 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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