Why Is It Called Calispell Peak?
Usa, north-america
14.16 km
2,090 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventure junkies, let's talk Calispell Peak in Washington state! This bad boy tops out at 6,856 feet, making it one of the highest points you can drive to in the state. The peak gets its name from the Kalispel Indians who used to call this region home.
So, what's up there? Besides bragging rights, the summit is home to a bunch of communication towers. Back in the day, it was a fire lookout spot, and now it’s prime real estate for catching all the signals. You'll be rewarded with insane 360-degree views above the treeline in an alpine meadow. Word has it there's even an old beryllium mine up there!
Now, for the nitty-gritty: the road, officially NF-629 (aka Calispell Peak Road), is unpaved and seriously rugged. We're talking rocks, ruts, the whole shebang. It’s about 8.8 miles from Tacoma Creek Road (Highway 2389) to the top, with a hefty 4,200 feet of climbing. Expect some steep sections, with gradients hitting up to 12.5%!
Definitely bring your A-game (and a high-clearance 4x4) for this one. This is NOT a drive for your grandma’s sedan. And be warned: this road is usually snowed in from October to June, so plan your trip accordingly. If you're hitting it during the snowy months, strap on your snowshoes or skis. Oh, and did I mention it can get pretty windy up there? Be prepared for anything! If it is wet and muddy, the road might also be impassable.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 14.16 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,090 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
moderateA drive to the top of Manastash Ridge
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, Washington road trippers, listen up! You HAVE to check out Manastash Ridge, known as "The Ridge" to those in the know. You'll find this beauty in central Washington, specifically Kittitas County. So, what's the deal? It's a paved road that clocks in at about 30.7 miles, connecting Ellensburg and Yakima in the Yakima Valley, running north to south. Be prepared for some steep sections as you climb to 2,706 feet above sea level. Get ready for awesome views as you cruise along Interstate 82 (I-82)!
moderateHow long is Squaw Peak Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, adventurers! We're heading to Squaw Peak Road in Utah County, Utah! This isn't your average Sunday drive; it's a 28-mile (45km) north-south rollercoaster from Provo Canyon to Hobble Creek Canyon, passing the Rock Canyon Campgrounds. Get ready for some seriously gorgeous mountain views – the scenery here is off the charts. Now, a heads-up: you won't be cruising on smooth asphalt the whole way. The first 4.6 miles are paved, but after that, it's 23 miles of good ol' rough dirt road. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is definitely your best friend here. Parking can be a bit of a puzzle along this narrow road, so be a good neighbor and try not to block things up too much. Keep in mind, this road is a seasonal superstar. It's usually open from mid-May to mid-October, taking advantage of the warmer months high in the Wasatch Mountain range. And speaking of high, the road peaks at a cool 8,549ft (2.606m) above sea level!
hardCastle Peak
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! If you're anywhere near Eagle County, Colorado, and you've got the itch for a serious off-road challenge, Castle Peak is calling your name. We're talking about a lung-busting climb to 11,036 feet above sea level, people! This isn't your Sunday drive, though. You'll be tackling 8511 E, a gravel road that's notorious for being rough and ready. Expect hairpin turns that'll test your driving skills and a super steep jeep trail that practically goes right over the summit. Trust me, you'll need a 4x4 beast for this one! The good news? You're generally good to go from June to October, when the snow's usually cleared. The not-so-good news? Even a little rain can turn this road into a slippery, loose-gravel nightmare. So, keep an eye on the weather and be prepared for anything. And remember, even in the summer months, mountain weather can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly! But the views? Totally worth it for experienced off-roaders!
hardWhere is the Lost Coast Scenic Drive?
🇺🇸 Usa
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!