Where is the Canwell Glacier Trail?
Usa, north-america
12.66 km
1,470 m
hard
Year-round
Alright, adventure junkies, listen up! The Canwell Glacier Trail in Alaska's Valdez-Cordova Census Area (think Denali National Park vibes) is calling your name. This isn't your average Sunday drive; we're talking about a 7.87-mile trek following the Canwell Glacier's lateral moraine.
Once upon a time, this area was a military ski training ground, which probably tells you something about the terrain! Expect a mix of gravel and some seriously chunky rocks under your tires. You'll be navigating stream crossings and tackling steep climbs, so a high-clearance 4x4 is a must. Trust me, this isn't a trip for the faint of heart.
This trail tops out at a whopping 4,822 feet, potentially making it one of Alaska's highest roads! Situated in the Delta Mountains of the Alaska Range, you'll be perched on the glacier's southern moraine, soaking in views that'll blow your mind. Just a heads up: the weather can change in a heartbeat, and the wind can be intense, so be prepared. Your destination? A hut built by the Alaska Alpine Club – a perfect spot to rest up after a day of conquering this epic Alaskan trail.
Where is it?
Where is the Canwell Glacier Trail? is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 63.3522, -145.7286
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 12.66 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,470 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Coordinates
- 63.3522, -145.7286
Related Roads in north-america
moderateWhere is McClellan Mountain?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you wanna bag a peak in Colorado? Check out McClellan Mountain! This baby tops out at a cool 13,110 feet, making it one of the highest drivable spots in the state. You'll find it west of Georgetown, in the northern part of the state. The route up follows the old Argentine Central Railroad bed – a seriously impressive feat of engineering from way back in 1905. Get ready for six switchbacks where the train used to zigzag its way up the mountain. Now, listen up: this isn't a Sunday cruise. The road is 100% unpaved and rocky. You're gonna need a proper SUV with low-range to tackle this one. Expect tight switchbacks and some seriously challenging terrain. The first section, right off Guanella Pass Road, is probably the toughest part, so be ready for it. The whole thing is about 8.7 miles from the pavement of Guanella Pass Road, and you'll climb over 3,000 feet – that's an average gradient of around 7%! Best to hit this one in the summer, when the snow's gone. And the views? Totally worth it. Plus, you get to check out historic spots like the old railroad remains along the way. Epic!
moderateWhere is Mount Graham in Arizona?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk Mount Graham in Arizona! This beast of a peak punches way up to 10,472 feet, making it one of Arizona's highest drives. You'll find it northeast of Tucson, tucked inside the Coronado National Forest. The road, officially Mt. Graham International Observatory Road (4567), leads right up to the Mount Graham International Observatory, built back in '93. Now, here's the thing: this isn't your Sunday drive. We're talking a completely unpaved route – SUV territory for sure! The road is gated and closed between November 15th and April 15th, and access to the very top has been restricted since the late 80s. But if you're up for a challenge, this climb is worth it. Starting from the paved AZ-366, the unpaved section is only about 2 miles, but those miles pack a serious punch! Get ready for seven hairpin turns and a hefty elevation gain of 270 meters, giving you an average gradient of over 8%. It’s steep! But imagine the views from that height. The scenery on this mountain is truly incredible. Just be prepared for a rugged ride!
moderateWhy is it called Cordova Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Cordova Pass! This hidden gem sits high in Colorado's Huerfano County, clocking in at a whopping 11,248 feet above sea level. The pass got its name from Jose De Jesus Cordova, a local legend from way back when. Originally built in 1934 and formerly known as Apishapa Pass, this unpaved road stretches between Gulnare and the highway over Cuchara Pass, offering stunning views in San Isabel National Forest, right by the Spanish Peaks Wilderness. Now, about the drive: most vehicles can handle it, but watch out for ruts and sneaky potholes, especially if you're not in a high-clearance ride. If rain or snow threatens, 4WD is your friend! From Cuchara Pass (FR364), it’s rock and dirt, and not recommended for RVs or long trailers. Heading east? County Road 46 gets a bit rough until you hit the south end of the National Forest. Keep in mind, this route is usually snowed in from mid-November to late May. But when it's open, the views are so worth it! You'll also find a parking area with facilities. Don't miss the Cordova Arch (aka Apishapa Arch) on the eastern side – a seriously cool monument built right through the Spanish Peaks' igneous rock dikes. All in all, it's a super scenic drive!
moderateIs the road to Pikes Peak paved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're in Colorado, ready to tackle "America's Mountain," Pikes Peak! Originally named "El Capitan" by Spanish settlers, it was renamed to honor explorer Zebulon Pike. The Pikes Peak Highway, a fully paved toll road, stretches 19 miles from Cascade up to a staggering 14,115 feet above sea level. Be warned, though – this beauty is STEEP, gaining over 6,700 feet with an average gradient of 6.70% and packing in 156 turns! Construction on this scenic route started way back in 1915, opening as a gravel climb, with paving coming later. The road's usually open year-round, "weather permitting," but closures are common when the snow gets heavy. Keep an eye on conditions before you go. And hey, if you’ve got heart or breathing issues, or you’re traveling with a baby under 4 months, maybe skip this one. Trust me, the scenery is worth it! Lakes, mountains, wildlife – it’s all there. Stop often to soak it in *and* adjust to the altitude. Up above timberline, the landscape shifts to something almost Martian, all red rock and boulders. Bring a jacket, even in summer – it gets cold and windy up there. The drive is winding and can be intense. The rangers will be checking the brakes of descending vehicles for overheating. The view from the top is insane, but oxygen is thin, so take it easy. Just remember: 25 mph is the speed limit. Uphill traffic always has the right-of-way. Use low gears to save your brakes on the way down. And fill up your gas tank – there are no stations along the way. Oh, and if you’re into racing, the Pikes Peak Hillclimb is legendary!