
Where is Mesa Seco?
Usa, north-america
N/A
3,846 m
hard
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 β 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.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 3,846 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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