Where is Sleeping Deer Road?

Where is Sleeping Deer Road?

Usa, north-america

Length

43.29 km

Elevation

2,845 m

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, picture this: you're smack-dab in the heart of Idaho, Custer and Lemhi counties to be exact, ready to tackle Sleeping Deer Road (aka Forest Road 086). This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks. We're talking about a rugged, unpaved, single-track adventure that demands a 4x4.

Why "Sleeping Deer Road," you ask? Well, it winds its way up to Sleeping Deer Mountain. And get ready for some serious elevation gain! You'll climb to a whopping 9,333 feet above sea level by the time you reach Rock Lakes, the road's endpoint.

Spanning just under 27 miles from Forest Road 537, this dirt road is one of the highest in Idaho, so be prepared for some incredible scenery. Keep in mind the Salmon-Challis National Forest location means the road is only open seasonally — snow closes it down early and keeps it shut late! So, time your trip wisely.

Share this road

Road Details

Country
Usa
Continent
north-america
Length
43.29 km
Max Elevation
2,845 m
Difficulty
hard

Related Roads in north-america

Wofford Lookouthard

Wofford Lookout

🇺🇸 Usa

Okay, road trip enthusiasts, let's talk about Wofford Lookout in New Mexico's Otero County! Perched way up high in the Lincoln National Forest, this spot sits at a dizzying 9,179 feet. Getting there is half the adventure. The road's a gravel and rocky beast that's best left untouched during winter. If you're not comfy with unpaved mountain roads, this might not be your cup of tea. Seriously, 4x4 is a must. And if heights make you queasy, maybe admire this one from afar, because the trail is STEEP. But trust me, the views are worth it! Plus, you'll be checking out a piece of history – the lookout tower was built back in '33. Get ready for some seriously amazing scenery!

Petes Hole Reservoirmoderate

Petes Hole Reservoir

🇺🇸 Usa

Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk about Petes Hole Reservoir! This hidden gem sits way up high in central Utah's Sanpete County, chilling at a cool 8,917 feet above sea level in the heart of the Wasatch Plateau. Getting there is part of the fun (or the challenge, depending on your rig and your mood!). Forest Road 0005, your trusty route in, is a gravel road that likes to keep things interesting. Expect rocky sections, tippy spots, and plenty of bumps along the way. The road climbs quickly, throwing in some switchbacks to keep you on your toes. And be warned: winter has a serious grip up here, so you're likely only looking at a summer window to tackle this adventure safely. But the views? Totally worth it.

A beautiful alpine drive to Tioga Pass in Californiaeasy

A beautiful alpine drive to Tioga Pass in California

🇺🇸 Usa

Nestled between Tuolumne and Mono counties in California, lies the stunning Tioga Pass, soaring to a breathtaking 9,960ft. It's one of the highest roads you'll find in the Golden State! This epic stretch of road, also known as Tioga Road (part of CA-120), winds for 67.3 miles from Lee Vining to Big Oak Flat. Prepare for a truly unforgettable experience. The entire road is paved, so no need for a monster truck! Built initially for mining back in the 1880s, it got a serious upgrade in 1961, making it the scenic marvel it is today. Trust me, this drive is legendary! You'll be spoiled for choice with endless hiking trails and access to Yosemite's incredible backcountry. Every turn offers a new, postcard-worthy vista. Think forests, meadows, shimmering lakes, and those iconic granite domes. Plus, keep an eye out for Mount Dana standing tall to the east! Now, for the fun part: it’s twisty and curvy—in the best way! It’s a wide two-lane road, so you can soak up the views. But be warned: there aren't many guardrails, so stay focused! The climb is real, especially starting from Lee Vining. You'll ascend almost 3,140 feet over 12 miles with an average gradient of 4.7%. Keep in mind that Tioga Pass is typically open from late spring/early summer to mid-fall, but Mother Nature calls the shots. Snowfall dictates opening and closing dates. In heavy snow years, it closes early, maybe October. Lighter snow? You might catch it open as late as December or as early as April. Planning ahead is key!

Where is Mount Hough?moderate

Where is Mount Hough?

🇺🇸 Usa

Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk Mount Hough in Plumas County, California! This mountain's a real gem, tucked away south of Greenville in the Plumas National Forest. First off, the road: Mount Hough Crystal Lake Road. It's all dirt, baby! It can get a little bumpy so while you *might* make it in a regular car during a dry summer, I'd seriously suggest something with high clearance. We're talking a climb of elevation over about, so the road is roughly long! That gives us an average gradient of . Heads up: This road's a no-go in winter. Snowfall makes it impassable, usually from late fall 'til late spring. Near the top, you'll find the super pretty Crystal Lake. And, the views from the parking area near the fire lookout? Simply stunning! Speaking of the lookout, there's been one up there since . They keep upgrading it over the years with the current tower in place. They still actively staff it for fire surveillance, but these days it also houses some microwave communication equipment. So, pack your camera, fill up your gas tank, and get ready for some epic scenery!