
Where is Methodist Mountain?
Usa, north-america
N/A
3,569 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, buckle up for an off-road adventure to Methodist Mountain! This baby sits way up there in central Colorado, straddling Chaffee and Saguache counties, clocking in at a cool 11,709 feet.
The road in? Forest Road 108A, also known as Methodist Mountain Road, departing from Salida. Forget pavement, we're talking pure, unadulterated dirt and rock. Think washboard sections and a seriously bumpy ride.
Word to the wise: leave the sedan at home. You'll need a high-clearance vehicle, preferably with 4-wheel drive, to tackle this beast. Space to turn around is limited, so commitment is key!
Oh, and timing is everything. This route is typically snowed in from late October until sometime between late June and early July. Plus, be prepared for some serious wind at the top. But hey, the views from up there? Totally worth it, especially after you pass all those comms towers on the summit. You will be able to view all of Salida and the surrounding peaks.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 3,569 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
moderateDriving the scenic Chain of Craters Road in Hawaii
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, adventure awaits on the Chain of Craters Road! Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, this epic 19-mile drive will take you on a wild ride from the 4,000-foot Kīlauea Summit all the way down to sea level and back up again. Opened in '65, this road has a bit of a history with the fiery landscape. It was even partially buried back in '69 by the Maunaulu eruption! Don't worry, it was realigned and reopened in '79. You can even spot remnants of the old road in places where the lava flows from about 40 years ago covered it. Since '68, the road ends where it's been swallowed by more recent flows. Located inside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, this paved, winding road is accessible to all 2WD vehicles. The views are mind-blowing, but be prepared for some steep sections as you descend over 3,700 feet – that's over 1,100 meters! There's even a hairpin turn thrown in for good measure, but generally, the drive is pretty manageable. Just take it slow, especially if it's foggy or raining, as the road can get slippery. Speaking of rain, always check conditions before heading out, as volcanic activity can be unpredictable and hazardous. Pack for anything – hot sun, strong winds, or sudden showers. Flashlights are a must if you're out after dark. And be aware that volcanic fumes are often present. While it’s only about a 45-minute drive if you go straight through, plan for at least 2.5 hours to really soak it all in. This road is like a front-row seat to the Big Island's ongoing creation! Expect to see craters, lava flows, petroglyphs, and maybe even some active lava. There are also some great hikes and incredible overlooks along the way. Important note: There are no services along this road, so fill up your gas tank and pack plenty of water before you go. Trust me, the views are worth it, but preparation is key!
hardRose Peak
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! Rose Peak in southeastern Arizona's Greenlee County is calling your name! This beast of a mountain tops out at 8,705 feet, and getting there is half the adventure. We're talking rough and rugged gravel roads all the way, deep in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. Definitely not a drive for your grandma's sedan – you'll need a 4x4 with some serious clearance. And maybe a touch of bravery! It's a steep climb, and winter makes it a no-go zone. But the views? Absolutely worth it. At the summit, you'll find a historic fire lookout dating back to 1929. The Forest Service still uses it, so you know it’s prime real estate. If you're looking for a remote escape with killer scenery, Rose Peak is your spot. Just be prepared for a wild ride!
easyIs Dave Wood Road in Colorado paved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along Dave Wood Road in western Colorado, winding through the foothills of the Uncompahgre Plateau. This isn't your typical highway – it's a 19.4-mile stretch of mostly unpaved adventure starting near Montrose and heading south towards Norwood. For the first seven miles you'll be cruising on pavement, but then the real fun begins! While most vehicles *can* make the trek, I'd strongly recommend having a four-wheel drive to handle the loose gravel and ever-changing road surface. Traffic is usually pretty light, which is awesome, but keep your eyes peeled! As you climb, you'll be treated to some seriously stunning views within the Uncompahgre National Forest. And get this: you'll hit a peak elevation of 9,284 feet! Keep in mind that this road is only plowed up to the Dave Wood Winter Recreation Area, so plan accordingly depending on the season. This road runs parallel to Highway 550, offering you a scenic alternative. Enjoy the ride!
hardMount Owen
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're in Colorado, heart of the Rockies, Gunnison County to be exact. You're itching for an adventure, right? Well, point your rig towards Mount Owen in the Ruby Range. This peak sits at a cool 11,620 feet, and getting there? It's a *trip*. The road's a real old mining track, so expect gravel, rocks, and a whole lotta bump and tippy action. Seriously, you'll need a 4x4 for this one. If you're not comfortable on unpaved mountain roads, maybe skip this. But if you're an experienced wheeler looking for a challenge, this is your jam. Heads up though, this road is typically snowed in from October to June, so plan accordingly. But when it's open? The views are insane. You'll be smack-dab in the Gunnison National Forest, surrounded by some of the most epic scenery Colorado has to offer. Trust me, the climb is worth it.