Where is Usery Pass?
Usa, north-america
9.49 km
647 m
easy
Year-round
Alright, adventure seekers, let's talk Usery Pass! Nestled in Maricopa County, Arizona, this gem sits pretty at 2,122 feet above sea level, east of Phoenix, right in the heart of Tonto National Forest.
Ever wonder where that name comes from? It's all thanks to a cattleman named King Usery (yep, King was his first name!), who roamed these lands back in the late 1800s.
The road itself, Usery Pass Road (or Forest Route 12 if you're feeling official), is a smooth, paved ride. Expect some fun curves and dips, but nothing too wild. Just keep an eye out during heavy rains because, you know, desert flash floods can be a thing.
Clocking in at just under 6 miles, this stretch of road runs from Mesa up to North Bush Highway. Once you reach the top, you'll find a small parking area and killer views of the Sonoran Desert.
When's the best time to roll through? Aim for fall through spring when the weather's cooler. Summer can get pretty toasty, and you'll be sharing the road with boats heading to the lake!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 9.49 km
- Max Elevation
- 647 m
- Difficulty
- easy
Related Roads in north-america
moderateWhat are the highest roads in New Mexico?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through New Mexico, right? Forget flat and boring, because this state is all about drama! We're talking serious altitude here – think of it as a rooftop party for the US, with an average elevation way up there. The landscape is pure eye candy: endless rosy deserts, mesas that look like giant, flat-topped sculptures, and snow-capped mountains that’ll make you want to pull over every five minutes for a photo. The Sangre de Cristo Mountains are the undisputed kings of this vertical kingdom, and they've carved out some seriously epic driving roads. Think winding scenic routes, challenging mountain passes, and history around every bend. It’s an invitation to ditch the interstate and dive into the heart of New Mexico's high-altitude beauty. So, buckle up and get ready for the ride of your life!
hardHow long is U.S. Highway 14 Alternate?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you're heading through Wyoming and want a scenic detour? Check out US14-A, the Medicine Wheel Passage! This baby winds for 98 miles between Cody and Burgess Junction, taking you right through the Bighorn Mountains. Word of warning: this isn't a Sunday drive for just anyone. We're talking serious elevation here, topping out at 9,455 feet! Translation? It's closed in winter, and even in summer, it's a challenge. Expect some seriously steep grades (up to 10%!), hairpin turns that'll make your head spin, and plenty of blind corners. If you're in an 18-wheeler or an oversized vehicle, maybe sit this one out. Motorhome drivers, gear down and save your brakes! But oh, the views! This drive is drop-dead gorgeous. Think wildlife, endless vistas stretching over 200 miles in some spots, and the kind of scenery that makes you want to pull over every five minutes (and you probably will!). Allow about 2 hours to drive it straight through, but trust me, you'll want to stop and soak it all in. Just be prepared for a remote and challenging, but ultimately rewarding, experience.
moderateWhere is Rich Mountain Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: Rich Mountain Road, nestled away in Blount County, Tennessee, smack-dab in the eastern part of the state near the North Carolina line. It's hiding within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and feels like a total secret. This gem was carved out way back in the 1920s, and still feels wonderfully secluded. The road stretches for about 6.9 miles, taking you on a one-way adventure from south to north until you pop out onto Old Cades Cove Road. Budget around an hour to really soak it all in. Now, fair warning: this isn't your typical smooth ride. It's a twisty, unpaved path that winds its way through a peaceful forest. You'll find some tight uphill turns with loose gravel, and keep an eye out because sections can get washed out. It's narrow, steep in spots, and climbs several miles up through Rich Mountain Gap. Most cars can handle it, but after heavy rain, some parts might be impassable. Anything bigger than a truck might struggle with the turns. And leave the buses, RVs, vans over 25 feet, and trailers at home – they're not allowed. But trust me, the drive is worth it. You'll be treated to incredible photo ops and it’s one of the most remote spots in the Smokies you can reach by car! Watch for white-tailed deer as you climb to the top at 2,650 feet. Just a heads-up: Rich Mountain Road is typically closed from November to May due to winter weather. Plus, heavy rains can cause closures at other times of the year, too. So, plan accordingly!
hardSan Diego-Coronado Bridge: An Engineering Marvel with a Complex History
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: cruising across the San Diego-Coronado Bridge. It's not just a way to get from San Diego to Coronado, California, it's an experience! This 2.1-mile (3.4 km) long beauty is famous for its cool blue color, its massive curve, and the insane views of the Pacific Ocean and the San Diego skyline. Seriously, it's one of the most stunning bridges you'll ever see. Why the crazy curve? Well, back in '69 when it opened, they needed it tall enough for massive aircraft carriers to pass underneath. That means a whopping 200 feet (61 meters) of clearance! To make that work without a ridiculously steep climb, they designed that iconic bend. Now, let's be real – this bridge has a sad history. Its height has unfortunately made it a site for tragic events. But things are changing! They're working hard to make it safer, including installing a special fence. Heads up when you're driving! The bridge is super scenic, but you need to stay focused on the road. Despite everything, the Coronado Bridge is still a major artery for the area, with over 80,000 cars crossing it every single day. It's more than just a bridge, it's a Southern California icon!