Elevations of Major Summits and Passes on British Columbia Highways
Canada, north-america
50 km
1,733 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, buckle up for a seriously epic drive between Salmo and Creston in British Columbia! Just picture this: You're about 50 km east of Merritt, cruising along a road that climbs to a whopping 1,733 meters (that's 5,685 feet for those keeping track!).
We're talking some serious elevation changes here, dipping down to 1,683 meters near Yoho National Park and then finding yourself around 1,581 meters close to Kootenay National Park. And the scenery? Forget about it! Rugged mountains, dense forests, and views that'll make you want to pull over every five minutes (but maybe don't, some of these roads can be a bit tricky!).
Keep your eyes peeled for Blueberry-Paulson Summit, Christina Lake, and Castlegar because you're gonna be passing right through them. We're talking peak elevations around 1,517 and 1,524 meters, respectively. Plus, you'll get a glimpse of the stunning landscapes east of Bella Coola and Radium Hot Springs.
And speaking of tricky... this drive isn't always a Sunday stroll. Some sections can be a bit hairy, especially near Canoe Lake in Northern Ontario (about 25 km north of Merritt). The road to Chilkat Pass is a beautiful and lonely drive. So, keep your wits about you, watch for changing conditions, and get ready for an adventure!
Where is it?
Elevations of Major Summits and Passes on British Columbia Highways is located in Canada (north-america). Coordinates: 58.4297, -109.3101
Road Details
- Country
- Canada
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 50 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,733 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 58.4297, -109.3101
Related Roads in north-america
hardHow to drive the Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler?
🇨🇦 Canada
The Sea to Sky Highway in British Columbia, Canada, is calling your name for an epic road trip! This cliffside route serves up some seriously stunning scenery, making it one of the world's most unforgettable seaside drives. Part of BC Highway 99, this fully paved road stretches 121km (75 miles) from the vibrant seaport of Vancouver north to Whistler, home of the famous Whistler Blackcomb ski resort. The name says it all: "Sea to Sky!" Starting with ocean views in Vancouver, the road winds north to Pavilion Lake near Whistler, nestled in the mountains. You might even start in sunshine and end up in snow, depending on the time of year! Speed limits vary from 80 km/h (50 mph) to 100 km/h (62 mph), with slower sections in towns like Lions Bay and Squamish. As you drive, the sea hugs one side while steep mountains rise on the other – gorgeous! Built in the 1960s, this mountain highway can be unpredictable. Rain, snow, and even wildlife can impact driving conditions. Expect steep sections (up to 10% gradient!) and some tight turns. Remember this is a mountain road where weather changes quickly due to elevation. Always check conditions before you go, and be prepared for anything from sunshine to slush. Winter tires are required from October to March for safety. While improvements have been made, it's essential to drive with caution. Allow about 2 hours without stops, but trust us, you'll want to stop! A day trip along the Sea to Sky Highway lets you soak in Canada's natural beauty. There are incredible sights and fun stops along the way – outdoor adventures, cultural spots, and historic sites. Winding along Howe Sound and then inland, you'll find scenic viewpoints galore! This is one of the world's best road trips. Discover ocean vistas, soaring mountains, waterfalls, bustling towns, parks, and outdoor activities. See Howe Sound, snow-capped peaks, waterfalls, and canyons – an unforgettable start to your adventure.
moderateCumberland Pass in Colorado is the highest standard passenger vehicle road in the USA
🇺🇸 Usa
Cumberland Pass is a crazy-high mountain pass in Colorado's Gunnison County, clocking in at a whopping 12,040 feet above sea level. Seriously, it's one of the highest roads you can tackle in a standard car during the summer months. Nestled in the heart of the Gunnison National Forest, this pass has some serious history. The first road snaked its way through here way back in 1882 to connect Tincup with the Denver-South Park railroad. It got some love from the Civilian Conservation Corps in the '30s, and then another upgrade in the '50s. Now, about the drive itself – you'll be cruising on County Road 765, also known as Cumberland Pass Road, for about 15.8 miles between Tincup and Pitkin. Don't expect perfectly paved paradise, though. This is a well-maintained dirt road with plenty of twists and turns, and it can get a little bumpy or sandy in spots. But generally, most cars can handle it, whether you're rocking 2WD or 4WD. It's never too steep, but there are a few narrow sections with some pretty serious drop-offs, so take it slow and steady. Because it's set high in the Rocky Mountains' Sawatch Range, Cumberland Pass gets buried in snow every winter. The road's usually closed from late October until late June or early July. But, oh, the views! This is hands-down one of Colorado's most scenic and historic drives. You'll wind through gorgeous pine forests before popping above the tree line to views of the Continental Divide stretching over 50 miles. Keep an eye out for old mine entrances along the way, but definitely don't go exploring inside. There are also a bunch of side roads leading to old silver mines.
hardIs the road to Greenhorn Summit paved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip lovers, listen up! You HAVE to experience Greenhorn Summit. This stunner sits way up high in California's Kern County, clocking in at 6,102 feet above sea level. The whole route is smooth sailing on paved roads – it's basically Highway 155, also known as the Garces Highway. You'll be cruising for about 56.4 glorious miles, running from Delano (where it meets CA 99) all the way to Wofford Heights near the super scenic Isabella Lake (connecting with CA 178). Now, don't think it's gonna be a boring drive. This baby's got curves! Nestled in the Greenhorn Mountains of the southern Sierra Nevada, expect lots of twists, turns, and some seriously steep sections – we're talking gradients hitting 10% in places! So, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
moderateBeautiful turnouts and scary gradients on the road to Teton Pass in Wyoming
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! Teton Pass in Wyoming is calling your name! This high-altitude mountain pass tops out at a cool 8,435 feet, so be prepared for some serious views. You'll find it snuggled in western Wyoming, practically kissing the Idaho border, right inside Bridger-Teton National Forest. Wanna go even higher? A little gravel path near the summit will take you to Teton Peak at 8,671 feet! Wyoming Highway 22, also known as Teton Pass Highway (and Idaho State Highway 33 once you cross the border), is a twisty-turny paved adventure. This road, which first appeared in 1913, stretches for about 17.4 miles between Wilson, Wyoming, and Victor, Idaho. Heads up: this pass is usually open year-round, but Mother Nature sometimes throws a curveball with winter weather. Expect possible closures and be aware of avalanche zones like the infamous Glory Bowl. Winter travelers, remember that trailers aren't allowed. Don't underestimate this road! With gradients reaching 10%, it can be a real challenge, especially for big rigs. Steep inclines and sharp curves mean overweight trucks might have a tough time. And let's just say, driving it at night adds a whole new level of excitement!