Can you drive to Clohesy Lake in Colorado?
Usa, north-america
5.3 km
3,356 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, adventurers, let's talk about Clohesy Lake Road (FS 381) in Chaffee County, Colorado! Nestled in the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness near Crested Butte, this isn't your average Sunday drive. This unpaved beauty kicks off near Rockdale and stretches for about 3.3 miles into the Sawatch Range.
Now, here's the deal: you can't take your sedan on this trip. We're talking about water crossings, seriously rocky patches, and a steep climb that maxes out at a 14% gradient! A 4WD vehicle with high clearance is a MUST. The road gains 340 meters in elevation, averaging around 6.41% gradient, ending way up at 3,356m (11,010ft). Fair warning: the final 0.75 miles are hike-only.
But the views? Totally worth it. Think classic Colorado: pine forests giving way to stunning alpine scenery, with aspens adding splashes of color. Just be prepared for a challenging but unforgettable drive! And remember, this road's a no-go in winter.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 5.3 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,356 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
hardWhere is Guardsman Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you're in Utah and looking for a scenic drive? Let me tell you about Guardsman Pass! This beauty sits high in the Wasatch Mountains, right on the border between Salt Lake and Wasatch counties, east of Salt Lake City. You'll cruise along Guardsman Pass Scenic Backway (aka Guardsman Pass Road or Utah 190 West) for about 24 miles, connecting Cottonwood Heights and Park City. Good news – you can totally do it in a regular car! And even better news, it's paved! Word of warning though: being up at 9,740 feet, it's usually closed during the winter months because of the snow. Aim for late May/June to October. But even in summer, watch the weather – a big storm can make things dicey. The drive is full of curves and some seriously steep parts, especially if you're heading up from Park City. That climb is about 7 miles, gaining over 2,600 feet, with an average gradient of 7.1%. It's a good one! Is it worth it? Absolutely! Plan for about an hour each way, *without* stops. There's parking and bathrooms at the top. But trust me, you'll want to stop! The views are incredible, especially in the fall when the aspens are bursting with orange and yellow and the oaks are radiating red. Pack a picnic, bring your camera, and enjoy the ride! Oh, and heads up, it's one of Utah's highest roads!
extremeHow challenging is Butte Valley Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! If you're craving a real off-the-beaten-path experience in Death Valley National Park, Butte Valley Road is calling your name! Situated in Inyo County, California, this bad boy is not for the faint of heart. We're talking a completely unpaved, seven-mile stretch of pure, rugged terrain nestled in the southwest part of the park. Think narrow, rocky, and steep, with some serious climbs reaching a peak elevation of 4,284 feet. Trust me, you'll want a 4x4 for this one! This wild ride leads to the legendary Geologist's Cabin (also known as the Stone Cabin) on Coyote Canyon Road. This historic cabin, built way back in the early 1900s, is a total gem, once used by geologists searching for mining opportunities. If you're planning to stop by, keep an eye out for hantavirus warnings and use your best judgment. But bottom line, Butte Valley Road is epic scenery, challenging driving, and a dose of history all rolled into one unforgettable Death Valley experience.
hardGarcia Peak
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Garcia Peak in Colfax County, New Mexico, is calling your name! We're talking about a gnarly climb to 10,935 feet in the majestic Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Seriously, this isn't your Sunday drive. The road? Let's just say "rough," "tippy," and "bumpy" are understatements. We're talking high-clearance vehicle required—mandatory! It's crazy steep in places, and super narrow with limited passing spots, so hope you don't meet anyone coming the other way! Forget about winter; this road is snowed in, often until well past the Fourth of July. But if you're an experienced off-roader craving a challenge and stunning scenery, Garcia Peak is where it's at! Just be prepared for a wild ride!
easyWhere are Lanfair Road and Ivanpah Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip fans, listen up! I've got a killer route for you in southeastern California, right near the Nevada border, twisting through the Mojave Desert on Lanfair and Ivanpah Roads. Think epic high desert vibes! We're talking about a 45.9-mile (73.86 km) stretch starting from the cool, historic spot of Goffs and heading north. You'll climb to some serious elevation, soaking in views that go on forever. Now, here's the thing: while parts of this road are paved, the majority is graded dirt. Usually, a regular car can handle it, especially in dry conditions. But, watch out! After storms, it can get a little gnarly with washouts and sandy patches. A higher clearance vehicle is recommended, and honestly, 4x4 is your best friend out here. But trust me, the views are SO worth it! And get this: this road even made a cameo in the opening of the cult classic film! If you're looking for a scenic desert adventure, this one's a must-do. Just be prepared for a bit of off-road fun!