
Where is O Quy Ho Pass?
Vietnam, asia
37 km
2,014 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, buckle up, because O Quy Ho Pass in Vietnam is an absolute stunner! Picture this: you're cruising along QL4D, a fully paved road that climbs and twists its way up into the Hoàng Liên Son Mountains. We're talking about a seriously steep ride reaching a lofty 2,014 meters (6,607 feet) above sea level!
You'll find this epic pass snaking for 37 kilometers (23 miles) between Cò Lá and Sa Pa, close to the Lao Cai Province boundary in northwestern Vietnam. And get this - it's nicknamed the "cloudy mountain pass" because the summit is practically always shrouded in dreamy white clouds. Just imagine the views! But be warned, those twists and turns make it a challenging drive, so keep your eyes on the road and enjoy the breathtaking scenery!
Road Details
- Country
- Vietnam
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 37 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,014 m
- Difficulty
- hard
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