
Where is Kelbaker Road?
Usa, north-america
109.43 km
1,233 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: Kelbaker Road, a total gem slicing right through the heart of the Mojave Desert in sunny California! You'll find it snuggled within the Mojave National Preserve, a place that redefines "remote beauty."
This isn't just some hop-skip-and-a-jump kinda drive; we're talking about a solid 68.4 miles (109.43 km) of open road. It’s your connection from I-15 near Baker down to the legendary Route 66, east of Ludlow.
Good news: you can ditch the SUV! Kelbaker Road is fully paved and ready for your trusty sedan. As you cruise along, you'll climb to a respectable 4,045 feet (1,233 m) above sea level. Pro tip: keep an eye on the weather during the summer months, because those desert thunderstorms can cause some flash flooding on the road.
But trust me, every mile is worth it! You're in for some seriously stunning views of the stark, desolate landscape that makes the Mojave so unforgettable. Get ready for endless horizons and a serious dose of desert vibes.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 109.43 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,233 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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