Zekari Pass: Ultimate 4wd destination

Zekari Pass: Ultimate 4wd destination

Georgia, europe

Length

39.2 km

Elevation

2,157 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

Alright, adventure junkies, buckle up for Zekari Pass in Georgia! This wild ride straddles the Imereti and Samtskhe-Javakheti regions, hitting a lofty 7,076 feet above sea level.

Forget smooth asphalt – this is a 24.35-mile rollercoaster of a dirt track winding from Sairme in the north to Abastumani, the old Soviet sanatorium area, down south. We're talking SH14, folks! Seriously, you'll want a proper off-road vehicle for this one. The road is rough, like REALLY rough, and heavy rain can turn it into a mud bath. Allow 2-3 hours to crawl your way through.

Keep an eye out for the Georgian Academy of Sciences observatory near the pass, a relic from the USSR days. You can even hitch a ride up via cable car (hit them up to register first). Expect shepherd camps dotting the landscape as you weave through the Meskheti Range.

Word to the wise: this route is usually snowed in from October to June, weather depending. But when it's open? Prepare for some amazing mountain vistas and seriously epic off-roading. The highest point is actually *north* of the pass itself, peaking at 7,463ft.

Where is it?

Zekari Pass: Ultimate 4wd destination is located in Georgia (europe). Coordinates: 42.0522, 43.3244

Share this road

Road Details

Country
Georgia
Continent
europe
Length
39.2 km
Max Elevation
2,157 m
Difficulty
moderate
Coordinates
42.0522, 43.3244

Related Roads in europe

How to Get by Car to Geamana, the Abandoned Town Sacrificed for a Mine?extreme

How to Get by Car to Geamana, the Abandoned Town Sacrificed for a Mine?

🇷🇴 Romania

Okay, picture this: You're in Romania, craving something *totally* off the beaten path. Head to the Apuseni Mountains, because there's a ghost village called Geamăna. It's a pretty tragic spot, for sure, but also unbelievably eerie and fascinating. Back in the day, this was a normal village in Alba County. But then, BAM, a massive copper mine popped up nearby (Roșia Poieni, one of Europe's biggest!), and the government decided Geamăna was in the way. So, they flooded it. Seriously. Residents were forced out, toxic sludge filled the valley, and now it's all underwater. The church steeple still pokes out, a haunting reminder of what was. Now, about getting there. From Lupșa, you'll hit DC99, a 6.3 km (3.91 miles) unpaved road that’s not for the faint of heart. Think loose gravel, potential loss of control, and impassable conditions in winter. Seriously, bring a 4x4 – you’ll thank me later. But here's the deal: This place isn't just a scenic drive. The "lake" is full of nasty stuff – think heavy metals and cyanide. Landslides are a real possibility, and there aren’t any safety measures in place, so be careful. Don't touch the water, stay away from the edge, wear good shoes, and maybe skip it if it’s raining. Definitely tell someone where you're going, and if you can find a guide, do it! It’s a stunningly sad sight, this village drowned in toxic water, but the surrounding mountain views make it a weirdly beautiful, unforgettable place.

How is the ascent to Passo di Collalunga?extreme

How is the ascent to Passo di Collalunga?

🇫🇷 France

) is a high mountain pass at an elevation of above sea level, situated on the border between France (Alpes-Maritimes) and Italy (Piedmont). This former military route is one of the most scenic and technical tracks in the The pass is steeped in history, serving as a strategic point during World War II. At the summit, the ruins of an old military fortress and several defensive bunkers stand as a testament to the area's bèl·lic past. The landscape is a high-altitude alpine paradise, characterized by rugged limestone peaks and a series of crystal-clear water bodies, including Lago Superiore di Collalunga . The environment is wild and isolated, making it a favorite for experienced off-roaders seeking silence and history. Road facts: Passo di Collalunga Border France/Italy (Stura Valley) San Bernolfo (Italy) / Isola 2000 (France) Gravel / Rocky / Muddy in sections How is the ascent to Passo di Collalunga? Reaching the summit is a challenge for both vehicle and driver. The most common access is from the Italian side, starting in the . The road is a classic , featuring more than 20 tight hairpin turns that climb steeply up the mountain face. The surface is notoriously unpaved, rocky, and bumpy . Due to the high altitude, the road is completely impassable during the winter months and can remain blocked by snow until late June. Driving in this area requires a low-range 4x4 vehicle , as the track can become extremely muddy and slippery after rain or during the spring thaw. The trail is narrow, and the "tippy" sections near the edge demand total focus from the driver. It is not recommended for those scared of heights or inexperienced in high-mountain off-roading, as the lack of barriers and the loose stone surface can turn a small mistake into a dangerous situation. What are the main hazards on the Collalunga track? The primary hazards are the unpredictable alpine weather and the deteriorating condition of the military road. Heavy rain can quickly turn parts of the track into a swamp, especially in the meadows near the lakes. The presence of and boulders on the way requires careful navigation to avoid tire damage. Additionally, since this is a border pass, it is essential to check current regulations; some sections may have seasonal restrictions for motorized vehicles to protect the fragile ecosystem of the Mercantour and Alpi Marittime parks. Self-sufficiency is mandatory, as help is far away in this isolated sector of the border. Road trip guide: 26 hairpin turns to Pas de l’Escous A brutally steep (17.67%) service road to Cime des Orres in the Hautes-Alpes Embark on a journey like never before! Navigate through our to discover the most spectacular roads of the world Drive Us to Your Road! With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click  to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.

How long is the Transalpina road in Romania?hard

How long is the Transalpina road in Romania?

🇷🇴 Romania

Get ready for an epic Romanian road trip on the Transalpina! This beauty, also known as DN67C, winds for 148 km (92 miles) between Novaci and Sebeş, carving its way through the stunning Carpathian Mountains. Give yourself around 3 hours to soak it all in – and that’s without stopping (which you’ll definitely want to do!). Locals call it "The King's Road" thanks to King Carol II, who originally built it. It even has roots tracing back to Roman legions! After being rebuilt for military use during WWII, it was mostly inaccessible until recently. Now fully paved since 2009, it’s a modern marvel. Transalpina isn’t just a road, it’s an experience! Picture yourself surrounded by incredible natural beauty, far from the usual tourist spots. The views are seriously breathtaking! But fair warning: it's packed with twists and turns that'll keep you on your toes. Heads up though, this high-altitude road isn’t open year-round. At its peak, it reaches a whopping 2,145m (7,037ft)! Usually, snow shuts it down around November/December, reopening around mid-May, weather permitting, and only during the day (8 AM to 8 PM). Pack a jacket, even in summer – that mountain air can be crisp! For a truly unforgettable experience, plan your trip for mid-to-late autumn. The foliage is unreal, transforming the landscape into a vibrant explosion of colors. Trust me, you won't regret it!

Where is Col de la Croix de Fer?hard

Where is Col de la Croix de Fer?

🇫🇷 France

Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because Col de la Croix de Fer ("Pass of the Iron Cross") in the French Alps is a ride you won't soon forget! Found in the Savoie department of France, this stunner is part of the legendary Route des Grandes Alpes. We're talking seriously high—the summit hits 6,794 feet! The road is totally paved (D926), so no need for the 4x4, but don't think that makes it easy. This 21.25-mile beauty snakes its way from the dazzling turquoise Lac de Grand'Maison to Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, and it's a roller coaster. Expect countless turns, narrow sections that'll test your nerves, and some seriously steep sections—we're talking up to 15.5% grade! But trust me, the views are worth every white-knuckle moment. Think towering mountains, cascading waterfalls from melting snow, and scenery that'll make your jaw drop. There's even a little bar and parking at the top to soak it all in. This route is a Tour de France favorite for a reason!