Where is the Lost Coast Scenic Drive?
Usa, north-america
104 km
742 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: the Lost Coast Scenic Drive, aka Mattole Road. Tucked away in Humboldt County, California, this 65-mile stretch is the real deal when it comes to raw, untamed beauty. We're talking hidden beaches, towering redwoods, and the highest coastal mountains in the continental US. Seriously epic!
The road itself? Mostly paved, but don't expect a smooth ride the whole way. There are a few short unpaved sections to keep things interesting. Plus, it climbs to a max elevation of 2,434 feet, so expect some steep stretches.
Word to the wise: skip it if it's raining or dark. Cell service is basically nonexistent, and you'll definitely encounter potholes and maybe even some partially washed-out areas. Oh, and this is earthquake country, so keep an eye out for tsunami warnings. The road is mostly two lanes, but they can be super narrow with lots of curves and switchbacks.
But trust me, it's all worth it for those incredible ocean views! Give yourself about two hours to soak it all in. You're cruising along the longest undeveloped shoreline in California, according to National Geographic. It’s been named one of the most scenic drives in the whole USA. This is a drive you won't forget!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 104 km
- Max Elevation
- 742 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
hardIs the road to Brooks Mountain in Jeff Davis County unpaved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, Texas road trip lovers, listen up! You absolutely HAVE to check out Brooks Mountain in Jeff Davis County. We're talking serious elevation here, topping out at 7,168 feet! Heads up: the road to the top is all dirt. You'll definitely want a 4x4 for this one. Be aware that the road is blocked with a gate. Starting from TX-166, it's about 6.2 miles to the summit. The climb is pretty steady, gaining over 1,800 feet with an average gradient of 5.63%. But trust me, the views are worth it! Get ready for some incredible scenery!
hardBlack Mountain
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Deep in the heart of north-central Sevier County, Utah, you'll find Black Mountain, topping out at a cool 6,578 feet. Forget your pavement princess, though. The road to the summit – Forest Road 278 – is all gravel, all the time. Translation? Bumpy. Like, seriously bumpy. You're gonna need a 4x4 with some serious clearance to make this trek. But trust me, those 360-degree views from the top? Totally worth it. The climb itself is pretty chill. We're talking about a 2.9-mile jaunt up from Forest Road 047, gaining only 364 feet, with a super-mellow average gradient. But heads up: this ride is remote. Like, *really* remote. So pack your supplies, tell someone where you're going, and be prepared for the unexpected. You won't find a gas station or a friendly face for miles!
moderateWhen was Lands End Observatory built?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're in western Colorado, about to hit up Lands End Observatory. This place is perched way up high in Mesa County, at almost 10,000 feet! You'll be cruising along Lands End Road (aka Forest Road 105), which is about 11.5 miles long. It's mostly gravel and paved, so your average car should be fine, especially when the weather's good. Just start from Colorado State Highway 65 (Grand Mesa Scenic Byway). Word to the wise: this road's usually snowed in during the winter, so plan your trip accordingly. Lands End Observatory itself is this cool historic building built way back in the 30s. While the observatory isn't used anymore, the views are totally worth the drive. Seriously, they're insane! You can see the Book Cliffs stretching all the way into Utah. Then, spin around and BAM – the San Juan Mountains and the Uncompahgre Wilderness are right there. You can also spot the Colorado National Monument, Big and Little Dominguez Canyons, Unaweep Canyon, and a bunch of those epic 14,000-foot peaks. Just past Land's End the road begins a harrowing hairpin-turn descent of 6,000 feet to the valley below. Get your camera ready!
moderateForest Road 697
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, adventure junkies, because Forest Road 697, aka Casto Canyon Trail in Garfield County, Utah, is calling your name! This isn't your average Sunday drive, though. We're talking high-altitude thrills, with the whole route hanging out above 8,000 feet. This 2.8-mile stretch of gravel is a real nail-biter in spots, squeezing down to widths that'll have you holding your breath if you meet another vehicle. Seriously, leave the minivan at home; you'll need a 4x4 for this one. Winter? Forget about it. This road is snowed in more often than not. Even in the good weather, conditions can change on a dime. Bone-dry one day, a muddy, slippery mess the next, especially after rain. But trust me, the juice is worth the squeeze. At the end of the line, you're rewarded with a mind-blowing 360º panorama. Get ready to say "WOW!"