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.

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Road Details

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

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