
Big Bear Peak
Usa, north-america
N/A
3,709 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Big Bear Peak in Colorado's San Miguel County is calling your name! We're talking seriously high altitude here – a whopping 12,168 feet!
The route to the summit? Let's just say it's not for the faint of heart. Picture this: a rugged, gravel mine road winding through the San Miguel Mountains, part of the majestic Rockies. Expect a bumpy, tippy ride. You'll definitely need a 4x4 with high clearance for this one.
Heads up: this road is usually snowed in from September to July, so plan accordingly. Also, if you're not a fan of heights or steep climbs, maybe skip this one. But if you're an experienced off-roader looking for a challenge and jaw-dropping scenery in the Lizard Head Wilderness of the Uncompahgre National Forest, then this is your jam. Just be prepared for potentially muddy conditions if it's been raining!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 3,709 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
extremeHaystack Gate
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Haystack Gate in Pitkin County, Colorado, is calling your name! We're talking a serious altitude adjustment here, topping out at a whopping 9,721 feet above sea level. Nestled within the White River National Forest, this isn't your Sunday drive kinda road. Forest Service Road 812 is a rugged gravel track that demands a 4x4 and a healthy dose of respect. Speaking of respect: keep a hawk eye on the weather! This area is notorious for avalanches, mega snow dumps, and landslides – oh my! Icy patches are common, so proceed with caution. Expect some rocky and muddy sections to keep things interesting. But hey, all that adds to the thrill, right? Get ready for some killer views!
hardWhen was the Taylor Highway built?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: You're cruising through Alaska's Southeast Fairbanks Census Area on the legendary Taylor Highway, a route steeped in gold mining history. This baby climbs! We're talking some of the highest elevations you'll find on Alaskan roads. Stretching 155 miles (249 km) from Tetlin Junction to Eagle (right near the Canadian border), this south-to-north adventure is usually open May to September, but double-check with your rental car place, because some vehicles aren't allowed! Heads up: The first 60 miles are paved, but after that, it's mostly gravel. Expect steep, narrow sections and those fun hairpin turns. The road peaks at 3,733 feet (1,138m) near the Top of the World Highway junction. Road conditions can change fast, from smooth to… not so smooth, so keep your eyes peeled for washouts. It gets narrower and twistier past Jack Wade Junction, so stay focused! Keep in mind, you're going remote! Think minimal traffic and limited services. Fill up your gas tank and empty those tanks before you head out. You'll only find services in Tok, Chicken, and Eagle, so be prepared to be self-sufficient!
moderateWickiup Pass
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventurers, let's talk Wickiup Pass! Nestled high in Utah's Garfield County, this beast of a pass tops out at a cool 9,255 feet. We're talking about BLM 14635, a road that laughs in the face of pavement. Seriously, it's rough, rocky, steep, and a true test of your off-road skills. Expect a windy, twisty, single-lane experience where you'll be VERY grateful for that 4WD with high clearance. Winter? Forget about it. Wet conditions? Hard pass. Heights aren't your thing? Maybe skip this one. But if you're brave enough to tackle it, Wickiup Pass carves right through the stunning Henry Mountains. Word to the wise: Mother Nature's got a wicked sense of humor up here. Expect high winds, sudden weather changes, and even snow in summer! Basically, pack for anything and everything, and get ready for an unforgettable ride. (Pic & video credit: AtomicGeo)
hardIs the road to Monroe Peak in Utah unpaved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk Monroe Peak in Utah! This beast of a mountain, clocking in at 11,223ft, is nestled in Sevier County and boasts some serious views. You'll be cruising on Forest Road 183 (aka Monroe Mountain Road), a pretty sweet gravel road that winds its way to the top. While a 4x4 is recommended, most 2WDs can handle it—just take it slow. Be warned: if it's been raining, this narrow road can get a little dicey with erosion, so tread carefully. Heads up: this road is typically closed from November through June, so summer is your prime time. And if you're looking for a less crowded experience, weekdays are your best bet to avoid the ATV rush. Starting from Forest Road 078, you've got a 2.9-mile climb ahead of you, with an elevation gain of 964 feet. That's an average gradient of 15.33%, so buckle up for a steep one! The summit itself is dotted with communication towers, but hey, it's also a famous spot for free flight launches in the US. Get ready for panoramic vistas and bragging rights!