Forest Road 1877, an epic enthralling drive
Usa, north-america
7.56 km
3,107 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, road trip fans, let me tell you about Forest Road 1877 in New Mexico! This isn't just any scenic drive; it's a high-altitude adventure in Taos County, tucked away in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains within the Carson National Forest.
First things first: this is a dirt road, all the way. We're talking about 4.7 miles of unpaved glory, and it's usually only open during the summer months because snow can linger well into June or even July.
Get ready for some serious elevation! You'll climb to a breathtaking 10,193 feet above sea level. Starting from Santa Barbara Road, it's a steep climb, gaining 1,722 vertical feet with an average gradient of almost 7%. Translation? You'll definitely want a 4x4 with high clearance to tackle this one.
But hey, the views from up there? Totally worth it!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 7.56 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,107 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
hardKPQ-FM Wenatchee Radio Broadcaster
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! If you're in Chelan County, Washington, and craving a serious off-road adventure, I've got the perfect climb for you. We're talking about the route up to the KPQ-FM Wenatchee radio broadcaster, perched way up high at 6,827 feet! This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks. Located above the Mission Ridge Ski Resort, this road is a proper gravel track – rocky, bumpy, and definitely tippy in spots. It's basically a chairlift access trail, so you know it's going to be gnarly. A 4x4 is essential, and be prepared for some seriously steep sections. If unpaved mountain roads aren't your thing, maybe sit this one out. Rain turns this track into a muddy mess, making things even more challenging. The road's typically closed from October to June, depending on the snow. At the top, you'll find a communication tower and bragging rights for conquering one of Washington's highest mountain roads. The views from up there are stunning, if you can stomach the drive!
moderateWhere is Dipper Lake?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so picture this: Dipper Lake, nestled high up in the Wyoming mountains near Laramie, practically kissing the Colorado border. We're talking Medicine Bow National Forest vibes here. Getting there is half the fun, but listen up – this ain't your grandma's Sunday drive. The road is unpaved and twisty, so you'll definitely want a high-clearance, narrow, 4x4 beast to tackle it. But trust me, it's worth it! The drive is relatively short, opening up a world of backcountry adventures. Just imagine yourself cruising through gorgeous meadows, accessing some seriously stunning alpine lakes. Word to the wise: this road is usually closed in the winter due to snow. Mountain weather is no joke, so scope out the forecast before you head out!
moderateWhere is Beckwourth Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk about Beckwourth Pass in sunny California! You'll find this beauty straddling Plumas and Lassen counties, way up in northeastern California, practically waving hello to Nevada. At a cool 5,221 feet above sea level, this pass is named after the legendary James Beckwourth, who stumbled upon it way back in 1850. Forget bumpy rides, this route is all smooth sailing on a fully paved road: California State Route 70. The pass stretches for a sweet 18.3 miles between Beckwourth and US-395, serving up some amazing views as you cruise along. And here's the best part: unlike other high-altitude passes in the Sierra Nevada, Beckwourth Pass usually stays open all winter long! Being the lowest mountain pass in the range has its perks. So, get ready to soak in those panoramic vistas without worrying about major road closures!
moderateWhere is Calakmul?
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, picture this: you're deep in the Mexican state of Campeche, heading into the heart of the greater Petén Basin, practically spitting distance – just 35 km (22 miles) – from the Guatemalan border. You're on a mission to explore Calakmul, a massive ancient Maya city, once the capital of the Kingdom of the Snake (Kaan) and now nestled within the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve. The road in? It’s an adventure in itself. Think a long and winding 64 km (40 miles) stretch that can feel a bit tight when you consider you might be meeting another car head-on. But trust me, the potential squeeze is worth it. Keep your eyes peeled, because the local wildlife – we're talking howler monkeys and even jaguars – aren't shy about using the road as a crossing. And what awaits you at the end? A city teeming with history, featuring over 5,000 structures, including one of the tallest Maya pyramids standing at 45m/148ft! Plus, countless stelae carved with stories of rulers and events from the Classic Period (250–900 AD). It's a journey through time and nature all rolled into one unforgettable road trip.