Carlsbad Caverns switchbacks in New Mexico: a 20 degree grade
Usa, north-america
2.01 km
1,219 m
moderate
Year-round
Nestled in the New Mexico's Eddy County, right where the Chihuahuan Desert kisses the Guadalupe Mountains, you'll find the entrance to something truly magical: the Carlsbad Caverns. And the way in? A series of switchbacks that are pedestrian-only, so lace up those hiking boots!
You're heading into the heart of southeastern New Mexico, into the rocky slopes and canyonlands of the Guadalupe range. This isn't just any cave; we're talking about a labyrinth carved by sulfuric acid over millions of years, creating a network of caves, passageways, and chambers that will blow your mind.
Prepare to descend into a world of geological wonder. The Big Room is the star of the show, a natural limestone chamber stretching almost 4,000 feet long, 625 feet wide, and soaring 255 feet high. It's the third-largest chamber in North America, filled with pools, lakes, and otherworldly gypsum formations.
The path? A curvy, paved trail within Carlsbad Caverns National Park that winds its way into the cave's mouth. These switchbacks are no joke, they're steep! As you descend, the light fades, adding to the sense of adventure. It's about a mile and a quarter of these winding paths, taking you 750 feet below the surface at a pretty steady 20-degree grade. It's narrow, it's steep, but the views along the way (or lack thereof!) are unforgettable. Plus, park rangers are always around, making sure everyone enjoys the journey safely.
Where is it?
Carlsbad Caverns switchbacks in New Mexico: a 20 degree grade is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 36.5302, -100.7431
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 2.01 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,219 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 36.5302, -100.7431
Related Roads in north-america
hardWhere is Richmond Hill?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, thrill-seekers, listen up! If you're heading to central Colorado and craving a serious off-road adventure, Richmond Hill is calling your name! This high-altitude pass in Pitkin County, nestled within the White River National Forest, tops out at a whopping 12,265 feet! Richmond Hill Road (aka County Road 15E) is a 12.6-mile unpaved beast that'll test your mettle. Be warned: this isn't a Sunday drive. It's steep, stays high in elevation, and can get muddy even when it's dry thanks to the shady conditions. We're talking a rough and rocky route along a narrow ridge. Definitely bring your high-clearance SUV (low-range gearing is a plus!) and, for safety's sake, buddy up with another vehicle. Oh, and plan your trip carefully because this pass is usually snowed in from October all the way until July! Even then, you might still find snow, and early snowfalls can shut it down again by October. So, timing is everything for this epic, high-altitude Colorado climb!
easyWhere is Bear Lake in Colorado?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you HAVE to check out Bear Lake in Colorado! This alpine beauty sits way up high at 9,491 feet in Larimer County. We're talking Rocky Mountain National Park, about 13 miles southwest of Estes Park. Getting there is a breeze on the fully paved Bear Lake Road. They spruced it up back in 2012, widening the lanes and smoothing things out. The road itself is about 9.3 miles long, starting from US-36. You'll climb around 1273 feet, so it's a gentle climb with amazing views. Word of warning, though: this place is POPULAR. Over two million people a year cruise Bear Lake Road, so expect some traffic, especially during the summer. Get there early on weekends 'cause the parking lot fills up FAST. The good news is, the road is usually open year-round, and they keep it plowed, so you can experience the lake even in winter. Just keep an eye on the weather, 'cause things can change quickly up there! Seriously, you don't want to miss this.
moderateEisenhower Tunnel is one of the highest tunnels in the world
🇺🇸 Usa
Cruising along the I-70 in Colorado, about an hour west of Denver, you absolutely have to experience the Eisenhower-Edwin C. Johnson Memorial Tunnel. Snuggled high in the Rockies, inside the Arapaho National Forest, this pair of tunnels punches straight through the Continental Divide, connecting Summit and Clear Creek counties. We're talking serious altitude here – over 11,150 feet above sea level! The Eisenhower Memorial Bore (westbound) clocks in at 1.693 miles long, while the Edwin C. Johnson Bore (eastbound) is just a smidge longer at 1.697 miles. Both are paved and ready to whisk you away! A staggering 10 million vehicles make the trek each year, especially on weekends and holidays. While it’s a quick five-minute zip through the tunnels, dodging Loveland Pass saves you nearly 10 miles and a whole lot of driving time. Keep in mind the approach grades are pretty steep at 6-7% so be prepared for that. Oh, and heads up, no hazardous material vehicles allowed unless Loveland Pass is closed.
moderateWhere is Colorado State Highway 103?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you're heading to Colorado? Let me tell you about State Highway 103, aka Mestaa’Ėhehe Road. This beauty is nestled in Clear Creek County, deep within the Arapaho National Forest, practically on Denver's doorstep. This paved road clocks in at just over 22 miles of pure driving joy, linking the cool little town of Idaho Springs to Mestaa’Ėhehe Pass. The road was established way back in 1923, and fully paved by 1956. Fair warning: you're going high! We're talking a maximum altitude of 11,177 feet! The road is generally open year-round, but Mother Nature sometimes has other plans. Expect possible short-term closures during gnarly winter storms. It climbs up to (formerly Squaw Pass) at 9,790 feet, and then up to at 11,049 feet! Get ready for some seriously stunning views along the way!