Where is Hawkins Peak?
Usa, north-america
N/A
2,953 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're north of Markleeville, California, smack-dab in the eastern part of the state, winding your way through the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. You're on the hunt for Hawkins Peak, reaching a lofty 9,688 feet above sea level—one of the highest roads in California!
This peak? It's named after some dude named Hawkins, the first white settler around these parts back in the 1850s. He was a squatter on a cattle ranch to the east. Pretty cool, huh?
Heads up: the road to the summit is unpaved and rocky, so you’ll definitely want a 4x4 with some decent clearance for that final push. It's not super long, but it's a climb. We're talking a serious elevation gain, with an average gradient that hits a max of 17.8% in spots—hold on tight!
But the real payoff? The views from the top are epic. You can soak in the snowy Sierra Nevada range and the vast high desert of Nevada. Just keep in mind, this road is totally impassable in the winter.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 2,953 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
hardDriving the wild Fisherman Road to Lake Owyhee in OR
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk Fisherman Road in Oregon's Malheur County! If you're itching for a seriously off-the-grid experience, this is your jam. This unpaved, rocky road winds its way to Indian Creek Campground on Lake Owyhee, and trust me, the views are worth the bumpy ride. We're talking about a full-on 4x4 situation here, high clearance essential. This isn't a Sunday drive – it's a slow and steady climb along a narrow, 11.8-mile (18.99km) stretch of pure wilderness. Fisherman Road starts off Succor Creek Road and twists its way to the Indian Creek Campground. The max gradient reaches a butt-clenching 18% in places and tops out at a lofty 4,612 feet (1.406m). Word to the wise: you will be completely cut off from the digital world, so download those maps and prepare to disconnect!
extremeHow Long is Racetrack Valley Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Racetrack Valley Road, way up in northern Death Valley National Park, California, is a total thrill ride! If you've got a trusty 4x4 with good tires and decent clearance, get ready to tackle one of Death Valley's most epic backcountry adventures. Clocking in at just over 29 miles, this dirt road is no joke. It's usually pretty well-maintained, but be warned: it's seriously washboarded in sections. The sign at the start isn't kidding about needing 4-wheel drive, and you'll definitely want a full-sized spare tire. High-clearance vehicles with beefy tires are ideal, but if you're a careful driver, some say you can even navigate it in a standard sedan. Just keep in mind that Death Valley summers are brutal, so plan accordingly. Washouts and winter snow can also make the road impassable. Always check the latest conditions at the Visitor Center or Grapevine Ranger Station because the weather here is wildly unpredictable. And if you start feeling dizzy, nauseous, or headache-y, find some shade and chug some water! Desert winds can kick up some serious dust storms, especially in the spring. Cell service is spotty, so don't rely on your phone. But the sunrise views? Absolutely breathtaking! Racetrack Valley, nestled between the Cottonwood and Last Chance Ranges, is famous for its sailing stones on a dry lakebed. Whatever you do, don't walk on the playa when it's wet, and driving on it is a major no-no. These stones, made of dolomite and syenite, mysteriously glide across the surface, leaving cool trails behind them. Remember, Death Valley holds the record for the hottest air temperature ever recorded, a scorching 134°F (57°C)! So, be prepared for extreme conditions. Drink gallons of water, avoid hiking during peak heat, and if your car breaks down, stay put and wait for help. Obey speed limits, use lower gears going downhill, and buckle up! Watch where you step—rattlesnakes, scorpions, and black widow spiders love to hide. Flash floods are a real risk, so stay out of canyons when it rains and head for higher ground if needed. And seriously, don't go exploring any old mine tunnels – they're unstable and dangerous. Cell signal is unreliable. For emergencies, dial 911. Backpackers, come prepared and let someone know your plans. Grab a free backcountry permit from any visitor center if you're backpacking.
extremeSteel Pass is a truly outstanding 4wd adventure in Death Valley
🇺🇸 Usa
Steel Pass, sitting pretty at 5,134 feet in California's Inyo County, is not for the faint of heart! This off-road adventure, also known as Steele Pass, winds through the remote and rugged heart of Death Valley National Park. Steel Pass Road is entirely unpaved and gets progressively rockier as you near the summit. This 45.8-mile stretch runs north to south from Eureka Valley Road to Saline Valley Road (southbound is generally easier). Considered one of Death Valley's most challenging backcountry routes, expect narrow sections, silt beds, ever-changing washes and canyons! High-clearance 4WD is an absolute must. Longer wheelbase vehicles might find it extra tricky. You'll need to be able to navigate narrow, sharp dry falls – sidewall tire damage is common, so pack a few spares! The road can be impassable after heavy rains. Waterfalls in Dedeckera Canyon require some real skill, and the Saline Valley wash has some tight, rocky turns. Make sure you have enough gas, too, as there's no cell service here. The drive can take anywhere from 2.5 to 3 hours non-stop. Always check the Death Valley National Park website for the latest road conditions due to frequent flooding. It is best traveled with more than one vehicle. Get ready for an epic adventure!
easyA Desert Trip: The Scenic Pinto Basin Road in the Joshua Tree NP
🇺🇸 Usa
Cruising through Joshua Tree National Park? You absolutely HAVE to take Pinto Basin Road! This fully paved, two-lane beauty stretches for nearly 30 miles (47km) and is essentially the main artery slicing through the heart of the park. This recently revamped road (Park Route 11) whisks you from the Mojave Desert to the Sonoran Desert, showcasing the incredible diversity of the landscape. Keep your eyes peeled, because this area is STUNNING! But remember, safety first! Watch your speed, especially with those gradients hitting up to 5.3% in places. Sadly, many animals (including desert tortoises) are roadkill victims, so drive responsibly. Reaching a dizzying height of almost 4,000 feet (1,197m), the views are breathtaking. But the desert has its dangers. Be aware of rattlesnakes, scorpions, and black widows if you're hiking. Summer brings scorching heat and intense sun, and flash floods can strike without warning – so pay attention to weather reports and never drive through standing water! Stay safe and enjoy this unforgettable desert adventure.