
Where is Hawk's Nest Road?
Usa, north-america
112 km
N/A
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: Hawk's Nest Road. It's this amazing stretch of asphalt in New York State, not far from the Pennsylvania border and an easy hop from Manhattan.
So, why "Hawk's Nest"? Because you're cruising along the bluffs high above the Delaware River, prime real estate for, you guessed it, hawks!
We're talking about Route 97, part of the Scenic Upper Delaware Byway. It clocks in at around 70 miles from Port Jervis to Hancock, hugging the river most of the way. The star of the show? A tight little section known as Hawk's Nest itself, with nine seriously sweet turns.
This drive is a MUST, especially in the summer or fall. Think rolling hills, killer views, and enough twists to keep things interesting. Weekends and holidays? Expect company. There are a few lookout points where you can pull over and soak it all in.
Oh, and did I mention Hollywood loves this road? It's been featured in tons of commercials for fancy car brands and even had a cameo in *Dr. Strange*!
Hawk's Nest Road started as a one-lane dirt track way back in 1859 and got its pavement makeover in the early 30s.
A heads-up: this isn't the road to tackle after a huge meal, and if your passengers are prone to motion sickness, maybe give them a warning. The twisty bits are intense. After that, it's a smooth, scenic cruise with some long corners and big slopes. Keep your eyes peeled and your wits about you—accidents can happen, even at the 55 mph speed limit. But overall? It's an epic drive you won't forget.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 112 km
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
hardThe Wild Road to Toro Peak in CA
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! If you're craving an off-the-beaten-path thrill in Southern California, you NEED to check out Toro Peak. This beauty sits way up high in the San Bernardino National Forest, clocking in at 8,710 feet above sea level. The way up is Santa Rosa Road (7S02), a 12.7-mile dirt track that'll put your ride to the test. Forget your low-rider – high clearance is a MUST, and honestly, you'll be thanking your lucky stars for 4-wheel drive. This road gets seriously bumpy, especially on the final stretch, which is steep, loose, and rocky. The road snakes up the Santa Rosa Mountain Range with grades hitting a punchy 13% in places. Be warned: they sometimes close it down due to fire danger or bad weather. It climbs 4,124 vertical feet from the paved CA-74, so expect some serious elevation gain. Watch out for narrow sections and keep an eye out for other adventurers. The road can be closed due to snow in winter. The views from the top, where you'll find a microwave relay station, are totally worth the effort!
moderateIs the road to Raíces paved?
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, so you want to experience the highest town in Mexico? Head to Raíces, nestled way up in the Municipio of Zinacantepec in the State of Mexico. We're talking 3,531m (11,919ft) above sea level! Getting there is half the fun. The road, Ruta 10, is totally paved, winding up from México 134 for about 6.9 km (4.28 miles). This isn't a flat cruise, mind you. Expect some serious climbing, with gradients hitting up to 7% in places. The scenery is amazing though! You'll be surrounded by trees as you navigate the curvy sections. Just take it slow, enjoy the views, and get ready for some seriously thin air!
moderateWhere is the Pinkham Canyon-Thermal Canyon Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, buckle up for the Pinkham Canyon-Thermal Canyon Road! This epic 20-mile off-road escapade carves its way through the heart of Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California, revealing some of the park's most mind-blowing scenery. You'll find the trailhead just south of the Cottonwood Visitor Center. From there, you'll rumble along Smoke Tree Wash before plunging into the depths of Pinkham Canyon, eventually spitting you out onto a service road that connects to I-10. Or, for the truly adventurous, keep going and tackle Thermal Canyon Road! Now, a word of warning: this ain't your grandma's Sunday drive. We're talking soft sand, rocky flood plains, and seriously remote territory. A high-clearance, 4-wheel-drive vehicle is an absolute must, along with emergency supplies and some solid off-roading experience. This route is strictly for experienced drivers, so leave the sedan at home! Before you head out, pop into the visitor center for the latest intel on road and weather conditions. Trust me; you'll want to be prepared for anything out here!
moderateWhere is Cochetopa Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Cochetopa Pass: a killer Colorado climb that tops out at 10,091 feet! You'll find this gem in southern Colorado, right on the Continental Divide, smack-dab between the Gunnison and Rio Grande National Forests. "Cochetopa" is a Ute word meaning "Pass of the Buffalo," and this route has been around since way back in 1858! Ready to drive it? Just hop on Saguache County Road NN14, also known as Cochetopa Pass Road. The good news is, you don't need a monster truck. This well-maintained, graded dirt road is totally doable in your average car as it snakes through those gorgeous national forest lands. Most drivers won't find it too tricky. The climb is about 26.3 miles long, starting and ending on State Highway 114. Think gentle grades and fairly wide lanes. Just a heads up: there's another pass nearby, a little further north on Highway 114, called North Cochetopa Pass. Keep in mind this is the Rockies, so the road's usually snowed in from October to June. Plan accordingly!