
Where is Obstruction Point Road?
Usa, north-america
12.23 km
1,870 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, so you're in Clallam County, Washington, and you're feeling brave? Obstruction Point Road might just be your ticket to a little adrenaline rush! Locals whisper it's Washington's "scariest road," so buckle up, buttercup!
This 7.6-mile dirt track claws its way west-to-east from a starting point to the Obstruction Point Trailhead, nestled deep within the Olympic Mountains.
Now, let's be real โ "road" might be a generous term. It's a well-maintained, unpaved path, totally doable in your average car, but it's skinny! We're talking a backcountry 1.5-lane situation with some seriously steep drop-offs that'll make your palms sweat. Keep your eyes peeled for wider spots to squeeze by oncoming traffic. Leave the RVs, trailers, and motorhomes at home. Trust me.
This isn't a joyride for Sunday drivers. It's narrow with blind corners galore. Rain helps keep the dust down, but too much turns it into a slick, treacherous beast.
Reaching a lofty 6,135 feet, Obstruction Point Road is Olympic National Park's highest drivable point. Typically, it's open from mid-July to October, but Mother Nature calls the shots. Snow can shut it down anytime.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! Just allocate about an hour without stops. The scenery is mind-blowing. After cruising through trees, the road bursts open, hugging a ridge with panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains that'll leave you breathless.
Fair warning: weekends, especially sunny ones, are packed! Get there early or hit it on a weekday. The parking lot at the end fills up fast. But that view? Totally worth the white-knuckle drive. You'll be gazing out over the rugged interior of Olympic National Park. Pure magic!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 12.23 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,870 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
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