Where is Narbona Pass?
Usa, north-america
30 km
2,658 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, so you're heading to northwestern New Mexico? You HAVE to check out Narbona Pass (formerly Washington Pass) in San Juan County! This road, also known as Indian Service Route 32 or NM134, climbs to a whopping 8,721 feet above sea level in the Chuska Mountains.
The pass is fully paved, so no need for a heavy-duty vehicle, but hold on tight! This 18-mile stretch between Crystal and Sheep Springs is seriously winding and narrow in places, plus there are some pretty steep parts. Take your time, especially if the weather isn't cooperating.
Good news, though: it's usually open year-round. Of course, being so high up, it can get dicey in winter and close temporarily if a storm rolls through.
But seriously, the views? Amazing! You're driving through an area rich in history, with ties to both Native American cultures and early settlers. Definitely worth the drive if you're in the area.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 30 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,658 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
moderateWhy Are There No Roads in Greenland?
🌍 Greenland
Okay, Greenland might be the coolest place you'll never drive across! Seriously, this massive island between the Arctic and Atlantic is all mountains, fjords, and glaciers, so forget road trips between towns – they just don't exist. So, why no roads? Well, imagine trying to build a highway across a landscape that's mostly rock and ice. Greenland's got a tiny population of around 56,000, spread out in little villages along the coast. Plus, throw in an ice cap that covers 80% of the island and permafrost that makes the ground super unstable. It's a builder's nightmare! But get this: there *is* one paved road. Just one! This hidden gem is in southwest Greenland, winding 4.5 km (2.8 mi) from Ivittuut, an old mining town near Cape Desolation, up to Kangilinnguit, which used to be a naval base. It's a short stretch, but expect it to be snowed in and closed during the winter.
hardHow to get by car to Gird Point in Montana?
🇺🇸 Usa
Deep in Ravalli County, Montana, a backcountry adventure awaits on the road to Gird Point. This high mountain summit, nestled within the Bitterroot National Forest, boasts some of the most incredible wilderness views Montana has to offer. Your journey begins off the famous Telephone Canyon Road. From there, you'll connect to Gird Creek Road (714-Gird Point Road), a winding mountain path stretching for about 11 miles. While the average grade is manageable, the road climbs a whopping 3,484 feet, throwing in 23 hairpin turns for good measure. Expect a gravel, rocky, and at times "tippy" ride – a high-clearance 4x4 is definitely recommended to handle the off-camber sections and loose stones. At the summit, you'll discover a historic lookout tower built in 1939, strategically placed for a 360-degree view of the Sapphire, Bitterroot, and Anaconda Pintler mountain ranges. The panoramic views from here are unmatched, showcasing the vast and wild Montana landscape. Keep in mind that Gird Point Road is strictly closed during winter due to heavy snowfall. Even during the open season, be prepared for unpredictable weather – mountain storms can quickly turn the rocky surface into a slippery challenge. The isolation of the route means self-sufficiency is key, as help isn't readily available. Gird Point is a demanding drive, requiring sustained focus through those 23 hairpins on a bumpy, gravel surface. Those "tippy" sections can be a bit unnerving, but the reward is incredible solitude and unparalleled views. This road demands respect, but for those who are prepared, it offers a truly unique Montana experience.
hardThe steep road to Donner Pass in California
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you're heading to Donner Pass, right? Picture this: you're cruising along Interstate 80, a perfectly paved road cutting through the Tahoe National Forest in eastern California. This epic stretch, also known as Donner Summit, climbs to a whopping 7,250 feet! It's a 15-mile journey from Truckee to Kingvale, taking you right through the heart of the northern Sierra Nevada. Now, a little history: this place is named after the infamous Donner Party, who definitely had a rough time here back in '46. Keep that in mind as you drive! The pass is generally open year-round, but hold up – winter can be intense! We're talking major snowfall, potential road closures, and mandatory chains. Seriously, this is one of the snowiest spots in the whole USA. Truckers, take note: the eastern approach is steep, and this pass has seen its fair share of accidents. But hey, the views are incredible! Just be prepared for anything, especially if you're traveling in the colder months.
hardThe road to Columbia Ridge is not for the faint of heart
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! If you're looking for a wild Idaho experience, Columbia Ridge is calling your name. Perched high in the Gospel-Hump Wilderness, we're talking about a summit sitting pretty at 7,867 feet. The route? It's Crooked River Road (aka Forest Road 233), peeling off south from Highway 14. Fair warning: "road" is a generous term. Expect a rough and tumble ride on a narrow path that sometimes feels more like a boulder field – with bonus seasonal streams! Cross your fingers you don't meet anyone coming the other way. Nestled in the Clearwater Mountains, this trek isn't for the faint of heart (or low-riding cars). Forget your trailers, and plan your trip for summer – snow can linger well into June or even July. Oh, and ditch the cell phone; you're going off-grid for this one. But trust me, the views are worth every bump and jostle!