
Where is Steptoe Butte?
Usa, north-america
6.59 km
1,101 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through Washington State, heading towards this lone peak called Steptoe Butte, rising dramatically from the Palouse Hills. You'll find it in Whitman County, right on the southeastern edge of the state. This place used to be known as Pyramid Peak, but now it's named after Colonel Edward Steptoe.
The road up is fully paved, though let's just say it's seen better days. It's narrow and winding, with no guardrails, so keep your eyes on the road. The climb starts on A635 Road (on Greenfield) and it's about 4.1 miles (6.59km) to the top, gaining 343 meters in elevation. That's an average gradient of 5.20%, so be prepared for a bit of a steep climb!
But trust me, the views are SO worth it. Once you reach the summit parking area, you're treated to a 360-degree panorama of the rolling Palouse landscape. It's stunning! Just remember, the road's open year-round for day use, but winter driving can be tricky with snow and ice, so be extra careful. Oh, and the summit's got some communication towers, in case you're wondering what those are. Don't forget your camera!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 6.59 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,101 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
hardWhere is Vermont Street?
🇺🇸 Usa
Ever heard of Vermont Street in San Francisco's Potrero Hill? Forget Lombard Street, this unassuming little stretch between Division and Cesar Chavez is the real deal when it comes to crookedness! This one-way (downhill, thankfully!) concrete-paved road is a hidden gem of tight turns that most tourists – and even some locals – miss. Located near McKinley Square, the most famous part sits between 20th and 22nd Streets. Vermont Street boasts seven seriously sharp turns in just one block, making it technically "more crooked" than its flowery cousin. Don’t expect a leisurely cruise. Parking's at the top, and from there, you're in for a 14.3% grade drop, with five full turns and two half-turns. The paving can be a bit slick, and the turns are tight enough that you might be praying you don’t scrape your bumper, especially in a larger vehicle! You’ll get a yellow squiggly arrow sign before you start, but after that, you’re on your own to navigate uneven pavement and avoid those unforgiving concrete walls. Despite the challenge, Vermont Street is a popular spot. Pedestrians love strolling and soaking in the city views. Around a million cars make the trip down this iconic San Francisco landmark every year. Keep an eye out for movie magic, too! Vermont Street's appeared in films like "Magnum Force" (Dirty Harry!) and "Bullitt" (Steve McQueen!), so you might just feel like you're in an action flick as you tackle those turns.
hardA Comprehensive Travel Guide to Hailstone Butte in Alberta
🇨🇦 Canada
Okay, buckle up for a trip to Hailstone Butte, a real hidden gem way up in Alberta, Canada! This peak soars to 2,326m (7,631ft), making it one of the highest drives you can find in the country. Locals just call it "the hump," and you'll find it nestled in the Highwood region of Kananaskis, right inside the Plateau Mountain Ecological Reserve. The summit's home to a fire lookout tower — apparently, the most southern one in Kananaskis Country! They've had a few iterations up there, and let's just say the wind is no joke. Trust me, you'll want to dress in layers because things can change fast at that altitude. Oh, and a word to the wise: keep your furry friends away from the lakes up there, as they might have some algae that's not good for them. The drive itself? You'll hop off Highway 22 and onto a well-maintained gravel road that twists and turns its way to the top. Get ready for some steep switchbacks, but the views? Totally worth it! Just a heads up, the road gets a little rougher as you climb, with some washboard sections and rocks to dodge. Watch out for logging trucks, mountain sheep, and blind corners! The road is typically closed from December to the end of April due to snow, and keep in mind that the weather can change in a heartbeat, and afternoons can get super windy!
moderateWhere is Martis Peak?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: You're cruising in California, itching for insane views of North Lake Tahoe and the Truckee area. I've got the spot – Martis Peak! Tucked away in the Tahoe National Forest, not far from the Nevada border. So, how do you get there? You'll hop onto Martis Peak Road. It climbs to a whopping 8,700 feet above sea level in just under 4 miles. The road starts off paved, but don't get too comfy – it turns to partial dirt closer to the top. Expect curves and a narrow path, so keep your eyes peeled for oncoming traffic. What's waiting for you at the top? Get ready for some serious panoramic action. There's an old fire lookout, originally built in 1914, keeping watch during fire season. The views? Unbelievable. Think distant mountains to the north, Castle Peak to the northwest, and the entire Lake Tahoe basin. You'll also get an amazing birds-eye view of Truckee. Word of warning: this road is usually closed in winter, due to its location in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. You might find snow, but it's open for hiking.
extremeCan you drive into Waipio Valley?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: You're on the Big Island of Hawaii, ready for an adventure. You've heard whispers of a legendary road leading down into the breathtaking Waipio Valley in the Hamakua District. But this isn't just any road trip, folks. Waipio Valley Road is a beast! Clocking in at a mere 1.4 miles, this paved path plummets from the Waipio Overlook (about 915 feet above sea level) down to almost sea level, into a valley so lush it looks prehistoric. "Waipi'o" means curved water in Hawaiian, and you'll see why as you descend into this dramatic landscape. But here's the kicker: this road is seriously steep. We're talking sections with a 40-45% gradient! It's so intense that some say it's the steepest road of its length *anywhere* in the USA. This road isn't for the faint of heart. Think of it as the opposite of a lazy river cruise. Word to the wise: This road is generally open only to 4x4 vehicles (the valley floor roads aren't paved, either!). Many rental car agreements ban this road, so read the fine print. And get this: Downhill traffic yields to uphill traffic (because trust me, nobody wants to stall going *up*). Driving down in low gear to save your brakes is crucial. Unfortunately, this stunning road is currently closed to tourists while local residents take legal action. It is reserved for residents with agricultural businesses. But even if you can't drive it, you *can* still experience Waipio Valley. Hiking down is a popular (though strenuous!) option, and local tour companies offer rides. Just remember, safety first! Waipio Valley Road is an unforgettable experience, but it demands respect (and a very capable vehicle).