Where is Priest Pass?
Usa, north-america
13.35 km
1,832 m
hard
Year-round
Wanna escape to Montana? Priest Pass is calling your name! This high-altitude beauty sits at 6,010 feet on the Continental Divide, straddling Powell and Lewis and Clark counties, west of Helena.
The pass got its name from Valentine Priest, a road-building legend who knew how to carve a route through these mountains. Back in the gold rush days, Priest Pass Road was one of the first toll roads in Montana, a wild west adventure in itself!
Speaking of the road, it's about 8.3 miles of pure, unadulterated off-road fun. Be warned, though, this isn't your average Sunday drive. The road, known as Priest Pass Road, is entirely unpaved and can get seriously steep, with grades hitting almost 14% in spots. The western side is a bit rough and rocky, so make sure your rig is up to the challenge. The eastern side is smoother, with hard-packed dirt perfect for letting loose.
Keep in mind, you're up in the Rockies, so winter brings a whole lotta snow. Priest Pass becomes a different beast entirely when the snow flies. But if you're looking for stunning views, a bit of history, and a thrilling drive, Priest Pass is a Montana must-do. Plus, it's right near the Continental Divide Trail!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 13.35 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,832 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
hard17 brutal switchbacks in the Green River Cove Road of North Carolina
🇺🇸 Usa
Cruising through Polk County, North Carolina? Green River Cove Road is calling all experienced riders! Picture this: you and your bike, carving through the southwestern part of the state on 10.7 miles of pure riding bliss. This isn't just any road – it's a mountain rollercoaster nestled high in the Appalachians, linking State Road 1138 to Holbert Cove Road. Think tight switchbacks, steep climbs, and a serious test of your skills, all while surrounded by the sprawling, forested Green River Game Lands. This climb is legendary for a reason: 17 hairpin turns that will get your heart pumping. Most of the road clocks in at a respectable 6-8% grade, but those hairpins? Cut them on the inside and you're staring down a jaw-dropping 22% incline! The outer lane offers a slightly gentler 8%, but either way, be prepared to work for it. Keep an eye out for oncoming traffic and get ready for one of the most exhilarating rides in the area.
moderateDriving the enthralling Notom-Bullfrog Road in Capitol Reef NP
🇺🇸 Usa
Cruising the Notom-Bullfrog Road in Utah's Capitol Reef National Park is an absolute MUST if you're in the area. This beauty traces the eastern edge of the Waterpocket Fold, a geological marvel that'll have you glued to your windows! Spanning Wayne and Garfield counties, this route clocks in at about 32.5 miles. You'll start smooth sailing on pavement for the first 15 miles, then things get a little more adventurous with a well-maintained dirt, sand, and gravel surface. Most cars can handle it in good weather, but definitely check in at the visitor center before you go. This road tops out at 5,725 feet above sea level, and Mother Nature can be unpredictable here — recent storms or floods can make it impassable, even for 4x4s. Give yourself up to two hours each way, and that's without stops (which, trust me, you'll want to make!). The scenery is phenomenal, and there are tons of chances to explore narrow canyons and hit the backcountry trails like Lower Muley Twist and Halls Creek Narrows. Get ready for some seriously epic views!
moderateUltimate 4wd destination: Dickson Pass
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! I've got a killer off-road experience for you in southeastern Utah's San Juan County. We're talking about Dickson Pass, a wild ride that tops out at a breathtaking 10,465 feet! You'll find it nestled in the Abajo Mountains, and to conquer it, you'll need a trusty 4x4 because this baby is unpaved – Forest Road 0087, aka Abajo Peak Road. Most of it's pretty decent, but the final stretch? Get ready to rumble! The road, snaking through the Manti-La Sal National Forest, is usually good to go from late June until sometime in October, weather permitting. Seriously, don't even think about it if the forecast looks dicey. But if the sun's shining, prepare for some mind-blowing scenery you won't soon forget.
moderateThe Snake is a challenging drive with 489 curves in Tennessee
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, gearheads and wanderlusters, listen up! You NEED to experience The Snake in Tennessee. Seriously, this stretch of Highway US 421, snaking its way between Bristol and Mountain City (Johnson and Sullivan counties), is pure driving bliss. We're talking 33 miles of perfectly paved asphalt carving through the southern Appalachian Mountains. And get this: 489 curves! Yeah, you read that right. Sweepers, hairpins, the whole shebang. This road demands your attention, so stay in your lane and respect the curves. The views are incredible, with steep mountains on one side and drop-offs into the Shady Valley below. This twisty, turny beauty is a proper, scenic mountain ride. Fair warning: The Snake is a popular spot, especially on weekends, so expect to share the road (mostly with fellow motorcycle enthusiasts). But don't worry, there are plenty of places to pull over, take a break, and soak in the scenery. Trust me, this is one unforgettable drive!