Where is Mesa Seco?

Where is Mesa Seco?

Usa, north-america

Length

N/A

Elevation

3,846 m

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, gearheads and adventure junkies, listen up! Mesa Seco, nestled high in the Rio Grande National Forest of southwestern Colorado, is calling your name. We're talking serious altitude here – topping out at a whopping 12,618 feet!

While Mesa Seco Pass itself is just a hair east of the actual summit, it's basically the highest point you'll hit in your vehicle. And get this: this isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking unpaved, rugged terrain, with sections that have been seriously washed out. You'll need your A-game and some careful navigation to conquer this one!

The route stretches for roughly miles, offering killer views along the way. Fair warning though: this beauty is a beast in the winter. Plan your trip between June and October, because snow makes this road totally impassable the rest of the year.

Share this road

Road Details

Country
Usa
Continent
north-america
Max Elevation
3,846 m
Difficulty
hard

Related Roads in north-america

Where is Salina Creek Road?easy

Where is Salina Creek Road?

🇺🇸 Usa

Okay, buckle up for a ride on Salina Creek Road! This hidden gem is snuggled in the heart of Utah's Manti-La Sal National Forest, just east of Salina. You'll be cruising on Forest Road 009, a well-maintained gravel track that hugs Salina Creek (you'll even cross it twice on bridges!). At around 12.3 miles long, it's a perfect little escape running between Convulsion Road up to Willow Creek and Skyline Drive Scenic Backway. Most cars can handle it in good weather, so no need for a heavy-duty 4x4 unless the weather turns. Keep in mind this beauty is a seasonal treat, typically open from spring until the snow flies again at the end of the year. And get ready for some serious altitude – you'll climb to a cool 9,009 feet above sea level!

Is the area dangerous?hard

Is the area dangerous?

🇲🇽 Mexico

Okay, buckle up, amigos, because Mexico 24 from Parral, Chihuahua, to Guadalupe y Calvo is a wild one! This isn't just a Sunday drive; it's a proper mountain adventure. And hey, the road keeps going past Guadalupe y Calvo, heading towards Badiraguato, which some say is known for... well, let's just say it's got a reputation. Now, I won't lie, this area has a bit of a shady past. It's near the Golden Triangle (Chihuahua, Durango, and Sinaloa), and things can get a little dicey with cartel activity and the occasional run-in with the army. So, yeah, be aware of your surroundings. BUT – and it's a big but – the scenery is INSANE! Think epic Sierra Madre mountain views, endless winding roads, and gorgeous ponderosa pine forests. Seriously, the landscapes are out of this world. Just watch out for those driving hazards! We're talking snow and ice in winter (without any plows, yikes!), plus rough patches and potholes that'll keep you on your toes. Oh, and did I mention the endless twists and turns? Motion sickness tablets could be handy!

Moki Dugway is a breathtaking Utah off-road adventurehard

Moki Dugway is a breathtaking Utah off-road adventure

🇺🇸 Usa

# Moki Dugway: Utah's Most Dramatic Switchback Adventure If you're cruising through southeastern Utah near Mexican Hat and want to experience something truly unforgettable, the Moki Dugway is calling your name. This 3-mile stretch of the legendary Route 261 is basically a roller coaster carved straight into the face of Cedar Mesa—and trust me, it delivers. The Numbers: You're looking at dropping 1,200 feet from the mesa top to the valley floor below on a steep 11% grade of well-maintained gravel. It's not technically difficult to drive, but if you're the passenger glued to the window while your driver casually admires the scenery, buckle up. The State of Utah politely suggests keeping your vehicle under 28 feet long and 10,000 pounds—basically, leave the massive RV at home. There are no guardrails, which adds to the whole "you're perched on the edge of a cliff" vibe. **The History & the Name** Built back in 1958 to haul ore from the Happy Jack Mine, the road carries a name rooted in history. "Mokee" comes from the Spanish word "moqui," used by 18th-century explorers to describe the Pueblo Indians and their ancient ruins. Settlers loved it, and the name stuck. **Why You Need to Go** Every switchback reveals jaw-dropping views of Valley of the Gods and Monument Valley stretching across the horizon. Grab the pullout near the top—seriously, your camera will thank you. This is the kind of drive that makes for legendary road trip stories. **The Catch: Weather Matters** The dugway is typically open year-round, but here's the deal: after rain, this road can go from manageable to sketchy fast. Mud transforms the gravel into a slippery challenge even for four-wheel-drive vehicles. Always check the forecast before heading out, and come prepared. No facilities means you're on your own once you commit to the drive.

Where is Buena Vista Peak?extreme

Where is Buena Vista Peak?

🇺🇸 Usa

Okay, picture this: you're way out in northwest Colorado, almost to Utah, exploring the Dinosaur National Monument. Forget the usual tourist spots—I'm talking about a real adventure to Buena Vista Peak! This ain't your average scenic drive. We're talking serious off-roading to a summit that most people miss. You'll need a high-clearance 4x4; this isn't a job for your sedan. Starting off of Harpers Corner Road, it’s about 6 miles up. The road itself is a primitive mix of gravel and rocks, winding its way up Douglas Mountain. There are some steep, narrow sections with serious drop-offs—so maybe not the best for those who get a little queasy with heights. Why bother? At the top, you'll find a cool, old fire lookout tower built in 1964. The views are insane, a full 360-degree panorama stretching from Steamboat Rock to the Uinta Mountains in Utah. Heads up, this is a seasonal trip. The road's usually buried in snow from late October to June. And even in summer, afternoon thunderstorms can roll in fast. That lookout tower? Not the place you want to be when lightning's striking. Also, if it rains, that dirt turns into super-slick mud that'll trap anything. Basically, Buena Vista Peak is a raw, remote, and rewarding experience for the adventurous traveler!