Where is Lily Lake?
Usa, north-america
4.5 km
3,233 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, so you're heading to central Colorado, north of Leadville, right? Wanna find a hidden gem? Check out Lily Lake! This alpine beauty sits way up high at 10,606 feet in the San Isabel National Forest.
Now, getting there is part of the adventure. Forest Road 131 is the name, and unpaved is the game! Seriously, you'll need a high-clearance 4x4 for this one.
From U.S. Route 24, it's only about 2.8 miles to the lake, but you'll climb almost 500 feet. The road is steep in sections, gaining some 149 meters in altitude at an average 3.31% gradient! Think rocky, bumpy, and totally worth it. FYI, this road is usually only open from July to October, depending on the snow. But picture this: crystal-clear water, towering peaks, and the kind of solitude you can only find off the beaten path. Trust me, the views are insane!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 4.5 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,233 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
moderateWhere is Ruby Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Cruising through southern Arizona? You absolutely HAVE to check out Ruby Road! This 37-mile beauty winds its way from Pendleton Drive near Rio Rico, all the way to Arivaca, straddling Santa Cruz and Pima counties. Nestled near the Mexican border, within the Coronado National Forest and skirting the Pajarito Mountains, this road is packed with stunning scenery. Think rolling hills, dramatic buttes, and a unique desert landscape teeming with wildlife. Plus, you’ll be driving past the ghost town of Ruby (the road's namesake!), along with the remains of other old mining camps like Oro Blanco. Arivaca itself is a cool little town with a ghost-town vibe. Heads up: you'll need a high-clearance vehicle for this adventure, especially after the first 12 miles past Peña Blanca Lake, where the pavement turns to graded dirt. While 4x4 isn't essential in good weather, the road can get rough with water crossings and tricky patches. Expect about 2-3 hours of driving time without stops. Ruby Road climbs to a respectable 4,829 feet, and while the views are incredible, be aware of the narrow, winding sections with sheer drop-offs and no guardrails. Take it slow! Also, watch out for slippery and rutted conditions when the unpaved sections are wet. Best time to visit? Late fall, winter, or early spring. Things heat up quickly from April through October, so if you’re visiting in the summer, hit the road early to beat the heat. Bring tons of water, wear sun protection, and keep an eye out for rattlesnakes! But seriously, this drive is unforgettable – get ready for some epic photos.
moderateAbajo Loop Scenic Backway
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! If you're anywhere near southeastern Utah, specifically San Juan County, you NEED to carve out some time for the Abajo Loop Scenic Backway. This isn't just a drive; it's an adventure! Think 39 miles of pure, unadulterated mountain bliss looping through the Abajo Mountains, just north of Blanding. We're talking serious elevation changes here, folks, climbing to almost 11,000 feet! The road itself is a single-lane dirt/gravel track, so be prepared for a bumpy, rocky ride inside Manti-La Sal National Forest. High clearance is your friend, and maybe leave the RV at home for this one. Passenger vehicles can usually handle it late spring through fall, but definitely check conditions in Blanding beforehand, especially after rain – it can become impassable! But trust me, the views are worth it. We are talking breathtaking scenery all the way. You'll be treated to incredible vistas, including views of the southern part of Canyonlands National Park that are simply out of this world. Seriously, bring your camera, because you're going to want to document every single twist and turn (and there are plenty!). From desert landscapes and red rock canyons to towering mountains, you'll find more than a few spots to stop and soak it all in!
extremeWhat’s at the summit of Elk Mountain?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, adventurers! We're headed to Elk Mountain in New Mexico's San Miguel County, and let me tell you, this is a drive you won't forget. We're talking serious altitude here – 11,673 feet! This is one of the highest roads in New Mexico, and it delivers views for days. What awaits you at the top? A broad, gentle summit with a shelter, some cool communication towers, and a view that just doesn't quit. Seriously, 360 degrees of pure mountain majesty! Now, a heads-up: this isn't your average Sunday drive. The road, Forest Road 218, starts off friendly enough, but soon turns into a rocky double track, then dwindles to a single track. Those last couple of miles before the summit? Let's just say they'll keep you on your toes. Speaking of keeping you on your toes, the weather up here can be unpredictable, especially in the northern part of New Mexico. Road closures are common, so make sure it's dry before you attempt this climb. The journey to the top is 25.5 miles from Pecos, and trust me, you'll want a 4WD vehicle for this adventure. If you can time your trip for the fall, you're in for a visual treat. The scenery is simply stunning! Get ready for an unforgettable experience.
moderateWhere is Resolution Mountain?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, adventure junkies, let's talk Resolution Mountain! This peak sits pretty high up in central Colorado, smack-dab in the White River National Forest. We're talking some serious elevation! Now, getting to the top? Forget your sedan. This is strictly 4x4 territory! The road's a rough and rugged unpaved track. The climb's around [length] miles, and get this: you'll be gaining [elevation gain] in elevation. That's an average grade of [percentage]! Talk about a workout for your rig (and your nerves!). Heads up, though: this road is typically closed during the winter months. But when it's open? Epic views! Get ready for some serious bragging rights.