Where is Lucky Strike Mine?
Usa, north-america
1.44 km
1,771 m
hard
Year-round
Okay adventurers, listen up! Tucked away in the San Rafael Swell of east-central Utah, near Moore, lies the ghost town of Lucky Strike Mine. This isn't your typical Sunday drive, folks.
We're talking about a journey to an elevation of 5,810 feet! You'll be about 0.9 miles off Reds Canyon Road. The road itself is unpaved and graded, but high clearance is definitely recommended if you're planning a visit. I wouldn't even think about bringing your low-rider.
The whole area is remote, and there are hazards to be aware of: radiation, flash floods and a total lack of services and cell signal! This place was once a uranium and vanadium mine, born from the dreams of four prospectors back in the day. You can still see the remnants of their hard work scattered about—decaying cabins, shacks, the whole shebang. Bring plenty of fuel for off road driving, at least enough for 100 miles worth.
And, of course, with great adventure comes great responsibility. This place is isolated, so come prepared with extra food, water, and supplies. And for goodness' sake, stay out of the mine shafts unless you know what you're doing! Steer clear after heavy rain, and keep an eye on the weather forecast before you head out.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 1.44 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,771 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
moderateThe road to Taylor Peak in CO: a chillout in high mountains
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up for an epic Colorado adventure up to Taylor Peak! This hidden gem straddles Pitkin and Gunnison counties, offering views that will absolutely blow your mind. The road tops out at a whopping 11,817 feet, making it one of the highest drives in the state. Located in the Elk Range, within the White River National Forest, you'll kick things off near Aspen (CO-82). The whole shebang is about 24 miles long, with the first 13 or so paved and super scenic. You'll even pass the historic Ashcroft Ghost Town! Now, here's the deal: after the pavement ends, you'll need a 4x4 to conquer the unpaved section. This isn't a Sunday cruise! Snow can linger late into summer, and some years, the peak is inaccessible all year round. Expect a steep climb: you'll gain almost 4,000 feet over those 24 miles, averaging about a 3% grade. The views? Totally worth it. Just be prepared for a real off-road experience!
moderateWhy is it called Covington Flat Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through Joshua Tree National Park, in sunny California, on Covington Flat Road. This isn't your typical paved paradise; it's a 9.6-mile unpaved adventure into the desert backcountry, split into Lower and Upper sections. Named after some pioneer rancher, Will Covington, this road serves up incredible landscapes, and lets you get up close and personal with the park’s biggest Joshua trees, junipers, and pinyon pines. Grab a map before you go, trust me. The road can get rutted, especially after a storm, so a high-clearance vehicle is your best bet, and 4WD is even better. Starting from La Contenta Road near Yucca Valley, the road winds up to a parking area near the Covington Crest Trailhead, topping out at 5,173 feet. From there, it’s a quick hike to Eureka Peak. Heads up: cell service can be spotty, and the climb gets pretty steep near the end. A smaller road branches off to a peak reaching 4,908ft. But, oh, the views! You'll be treated to panoramas of Palm Springs, the surrounding mountains, and the Morongo Basin. Just be aware that rain or snow can make this drive a real challenge. But if you're prepared, it's totally worth it!
hardThe unpaved road to Telegraph Creek is a Canadian classic
🇨🇦 Canada
Telegraph Creek, a small, largely indigenous settlement, sits pretty on the Stikine River in British Columbia. Getting there? Let's just say the road is an adventure in itself! Built way back during the Klondike Gold Rush of the 1860s, the Telegraph Creek Road (Highway 51) is steeped in history. Telegraph Creek, home to the Tahltan First Nation, got its name from a planned telegraph line connecting Canada to the Yukon. This 110km (68 miles) stretch winds east-west from Dease Lake (right off the Stewart-Cassiar Highway) to Telegraph Creek. Hugging the Stikine River, keep an eye out—it's known for washouts and the occasional rockslide. Tucked away in northern BC, this isn't your average Sunday drive. Expect a narrow, steep mountain road that can hit a maximum gradient of 20%! Pavement gives way to compacted dirt and gravel at Km 4.7, offering a wilder experience. It can get slick when wet, but nothing a moderately experienced driver can't handle. Topping out at 849m (2,785ft), be ready to test those brakes. The switchbacks have caused headaches for truckers over the years. Not ideal for large RVs or trailers, but most vehicles should be fine. Much of the road is a single track, so be prepared to use those tiny pull-outs. Factor in 2-3 hours for the drive, without stops. The reward? Stunning views of the Stikine River. With sheer cliffs plunging down to the water, photo opportunities are everywhere. In town, you'll find old buildings dating back to the gold rush era, some restored, some abandoned. Photo by Ken Welte.
extremeWolf Creek Pass in Colorado: Beware of the wolf
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, thrill-seekers, let's talk Wolf Creek Pass in southern Colorado! This baby clocks in at a whopping 10,869 feet above sea level in the San Juan Mountains. You'll find it nestled in Mineral County, connecting Pagosa Springs to South Fork along U.S. Highway 160 – a 41.7 mile ride. The views? Absolutely stunning. You're riding the Continental Divide, after all! Just keep in mind this pass is no joke, especially in winter. We're talking serious snow, icy conditions, and the kind of storms that can make even experienced drivers a little queasy. It's open year-round, but be prepared! That west side? It's got a 7% downhill grade, making it one of the steepest paved passes in Colorado. Oh, and that hairpin curve about six-and-a-half miles from the top? Legend has it that's where things get dicey. One wrong move and you're staring down a serious drop-off. Truckers, take note: there are runaway truck ramps for a reason! Budget around 60-75 minutes to cruise the whole thing, if you're not stopping to soak in the views (but you should!).