
Where is Radical Hill?
Usa, north-america
11.42 km
3,846 m
extreme
Year-round
Radical Hill? More like Radically Awesome Hill! This beast clocks in at 12,618 feet above sea level, nestled in Colorado's Summit County near Montezuma, just west of Webster Pass.
Forget pavement, this 7.1-mile climb is all about conquering rocks and navigating a seriously narrow, shelf-like track. Imagine tight switchbacks that'll have you holding your breath! It's tippy, steep, and has plenty of rocky sections to keep you on your toes. We're talking aggressive stock SUVs only, folks, with experienced drivers at the wheel. Low range and skid plates? Essential.
Timing is everything! Aim for late August or early September for the best chance of a snow-free adventure. Any other time, and you might be facing a winter wonderland...or a winter nightmare.
The road throws a mix of rocky terrain, switchbacks, and loose climbs your way. Watch out for those extra-narrow spots and the off-camber section near the tailings pile. The final push to the top is loose, rocky, and eroded, so be prepared. Not for the faint of heart, this trail serves up steep drops and challenging terrain!
But the payoff? Absolutely worth it. The summit is super flat with tons of parking to soak in the views. You'll be treated to incredible vistas of the Continental Divide, Webster Pass, Handcart Peak, and Teller Mountain. Plus, you'll stumble upon remnants of Colorado's rich mining history along the way. It's a tough climb, but the rewards are epic!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 11.42 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,846 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
Related Roads in north-america
moderateAn Unforgettable Drive to Gold Hill Pass in UT
๐บ๐ธ Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Deep in Utah's Summit County, hidden within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, you'll find Gold Hill Pass. This bad boy tops out at a whopping 10,039 feet! Forget smooth pavement; we're talking about Gold Hill Road (FR160), a 7.5-mile stretch of pure, unadulterated dirt. Seriously, you'll want a high-clearance vehicle โ ideally a low-geared 2WD or, better yet, a 4x4 โ to tackle this one. The road winds east to west, connecting Mirror Lake Highway (U-150) with Forest Road 638. Keep in mind, this is a seasonal gem, usually open from mid-May to mid-October. So, if you're looking for a wild ride with killer views in the Uinta Mountains, Gold Hill Pass might just be your next unforgettable adventure!
moderateWhere is Mount Wilson?
๐บ๐ธ Usa
Okay, so you're heading to Mount Wilson, just northeast of L.A. near Pasadena? This peak sits pretty high at 5,666 feet! The road up, Mount Wilson Red Box Road, starts from Angeles Crest Highway and itโs about 4.7 miles to the top. Don't let the short distance fool you, though โ itโs a twisty, narrow, and pretty steep climb, gaining over 1,000 feet in elevation. Word to the wise: This is a mountain road, so winter can be brutal. Think potential rock slides, snow, and thick fog. But if you hit it on a good day? The views are insane! The road itself is a blast to drive, with endless curves and climbs. And on a clear day? You might even spot Santa Catalina Island way out on the horizon. Up top, you'll find the Mount Wilson Observatory. It's been a prime spot for astronomers for years. The place is open to visitors most of the year, and these days, you'll also find the CHARA Array, which is used for some serious star research. Definitely worth the trip if you're into views and a little stargazing history!
moderateWhere is Butte Lake?
๐บ๐ธ Usa
Hey fellow adventurers! Ready for a trek to the shimmering Butte Lake? This gem sits pretty high up in Lassen County, California, nestled in the northeast corner of Lassen Volcanic National Park. First things first: the road in. It's called Butte Lake Road (aka Forest Road 32N21), and it's all gravel, baby! Don't expect smooth sailing โ it can get bumpy and washboarded, so take it slow and steady. You'll hop off the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway and head south for about 6.6 miles (10.62 km) โ not too long! The good news is it's pretty flat, with only a 725-foot (221-meter) climb. Keep in mind that being in Lassen National Forest means the road is typically closed from November to May due to snow. So, plan your trip accordingly!
extremeFordyce Creek
๐บ๐ธ Usa
Fordyce Creek in Northern California's Nevada County? Buckle up, buttercup, because this isn't your average Sunday drive. This 11.9-mile trail is a hardcore 4x4 adventure, and I mean HARDCORE. We're talking gravel, massive boulders, and tight squeezes that'll test your skills (and your vehicle) to the max. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada, Fordyce Creek boasts five winch-hills and six water crossings that can go from a refreshing splash to a vehicle-swallowing nightmare in a heartbeat. Speaking of which, this trail isn't for the faint of heart. Weโre talking potential body damage, mechanical mayhem, and, yes, even rollovers. So, unless youโre a seasoned off-roader, steer clear. You'll need a seriously capable 4x4 with high clearance (no stock vehicles allowed!), minimum 33-inch tires, and at least one locker. Two lockers and low gears are HIGHLY recommended. And never, ever go it alone. Travel in a group with at least one winch-equipped buddy. The scenery is beautiful, but the real challenge is conquering the obstacles. Just remember to pack emergency supplies, extra parts, and a healthy dose of respect for Mother Nature. The best time to hit this trail? Late September until the first snowfall, when the water flow is usually at its lowest. Be prepared for washboard surfaces, deep dust, and potential flooding โ conditions change rapidly! Know your vehicle, know your route, and be ready for anything. This is an adrenaline-pumping, ego-crushing, unforgettable experience.