Highest paved roads in the USA
Usa, north-america
3.2 km
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along the Beartooth Highway (US 212) right at the Wyoming state line. This isn't just any drive; it's an experience! You're tackling serious elevation, so expect some thinner air. The road winds and climbs, but the views? Absolutely epic! Think wide-open skies and a real sense of being on top of the world. Keep an eye on the weather, though – mountain conditions can change in a heartbeat.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 3.2 km
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
hardWhy is Cerro de la Cúpula famous for?
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, fellow adventurers, picture this: You're cruising from Ensenada, Mexico, into the heart of Baja California, and aiming for the sky. Literally! You're headed for Cerro de la Cúpula, a killer peak soaring to a mighty 9,206 feet. This isn't just any mountain. Perched at the top, inside the Sierra de San Pedro Mártir National Park, is the National Astronomical Observatory. Open for tours weekdays 10am-1pm, this is a must-see. We're talking about one of the top stargazing spots *in the world*. Forget light pollution – the views here are insane, so bring your camera! The road itself? It’s paved the whole 62 miles from Ensenada, but get ready for some steep climbs! Weather can be a real mood-killer, so keep an eye on the forecast. We’re talking snowstorms in winter (yes, snow!), and scorching desert heat in summer at lower elevations. Pack layers! This place is stunning, with views that stretch forever, but Mother Nature calls the shots.
moderateWhere is Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive?
🇨🇦 Canada
Craving a taste of the Canadian Rockies? Then you HAVE to check out the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive! This totally paved 13 km (8 miles) loop is tucked away in the eastern corner of Banff National Park, just a stone's throw from the town of Banff itself. Locals call Minnewanka the "Lake of the Spirits," and trust me, this place is magical! The road loops around Banff's largest lake, a deep blue glacial beauty fed by the Cascade River. It climbs to a lofty 1,537m (5,042ft), giving you seriously stunning views. The Lake Minnewanka Scenic Loop is generally open year-round, but some sections close down from November to April, so plan accordingly. You could blast through it in 20-30 minutes, but honestly, you'll want way more time. This loop takes you past gems like Two Jack Lake, Johnson Lake, the shores of Lake Minnewanka, and even the eerie ghost town of Bankhead. Keep those peepers peeled! This route is a wildlife hotspot, especially in spring. Bighorn sheep love chilling by the roadside and scaling the cliffs between Two Jack Lake and Lake Minnewanka. You might also spot elk, deer (mule and white-tail!), foxes, wolves, coyotes, and if you're super lucky, even a bear! Pro tip: early mornings or late evenings are prime time for critter spotting. Oh, and in winter? It's one of the best places in Banff National Park to catch the Northern Lights dancing!
hardWhere is Lucky Strike Mine?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay adventurers, listen up! Tucked away in the San Rafael Swell of east-central Utah, near Moore, lies the ghost town of Lucky Strike Mine. This isn't your typical Sunday drive, folks. We're talking about a journey to an elevation of 5,810 feet! You'll be about 0.9 miles off Reds Canyon Road. The road itself is unpaved and graded, but high clearance is definitely recommended if you're planning a visit. I wouldn't even think about bringing your low-rider. The whole area is remote, and there are hazards to be aware of: radiation, flash floods and a total lack of services and cell signal! This place was once a uranium and vanadium mine, born from the dreams of four prospectors back in the day. You can still see the remnants of their hard work scattered about—decaying cabins, shacks, the whole shebang. Bring plenty of fuel for off road driving, at least enough for 100 miles worth. And, of course, with great adventure comes great responsibility. This place is isolated, so come prepared with extra food, water, and supplies. And for goodness' sake, stay out of the mine shafts unless you know what you're doing! Steer clear after heavy rain, and keep an eye on the weather forecast before you head out.
easyWhere is Mitchell Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip fans, let's talk Mitchell Pass! This little gem sits at 4,189 feet above sea level, nestled right on the western edge of Nebraska, practically waving hello to Wyoming. You'll find it inside Scotts Bluff National Monument, and it's the starting point for the awesome Scotts Bluff Summit Road. It's called Mitchell Pass because of the nearby Fort Mitchell from way back in 1864, which in turn was named after Brigadier General Robert B. Mitchell. Now, about the road itself: it's paved the whole way up! You'll be cruising on Nebraska Highway 92, which was cleverly built in the '30s to give travelers a smoother ride through the hills. The whole trip clocks in at about 7.2 miles, heading north-southeast from Gering (that's the county seat, FYI, in the Nebraska Panhandle). So, get ready for some incredible views and a super scenic drive!