How long is Desert View Drive?
Usa, north-america
37 km
2,289 m
hard
Year-round
Cruising in northern Arizona, inside Coconino County, you'll find Desert View Drive—your ticket to some seriously breathtaking Grand Canyon views! This fully paved road, part of Arizona State Route 64, stretches 23 miles from just east of Grand Canyon Village all the way to Desert View Services Area and the park's East Entrance.
Don't let the name fool you; this isn't just another desert drive. It's a front-row seat to the Grand Canyon's majesty. Rising to 7,509 feet, it's generally open year-round.
As you wind through the ponderosa pines, you'll catch glimpses of the canyon, but the real showstoppers are the signed overlooks. Pull over, park, and prepare to be amazed as you gaze out over the rim. This drive was designed back in 1931 to make the canyon accessible by car, and it definitely delivers on the views!
Hugging the South Rim, this route is dotted with scenic pullouts and viewpoints, each one more incredible than the last, offering panoramic views of both the canyon and the Colorado River. Plus, there's parking at every viewpoint! Perfect for families or anyone who wants to experience the Grand Canyon without a huge hike.
Without stops, the drive takes about 25-30 minutes. But, trust me, you'll want to plan 3-4 hours to soak it all in. You'll find six developed viewpoints, four picnic areas, and five unmarked pullouts along the way. Just remember, the Grand Canyon shuttle buses don't run on Desert View Drive, so you'll be driving yourself. Stock up on snacks and water and get ready for an unforgettable ride!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 37 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,289 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
moderateEl Mortero Road
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, buckle up, road trip lovers! We're hitting El Mortero Road, snaking between the charming towns of Monte Escobedo and Mezquitic. Think vast valleys and gentle hills rolling as far as the eye can see. The adventure starts in Monte Escobedo, Zacatecas, perched high at 2200 meters above sea level. The paved road then dips down to a small village nestled on a mesa at 1930 meters – picture-perfect! From there, it's a sweet descent to Mezquitic, Jalisco, sitting pretty at 1350 meters. Get ready for some breathtaking views and a serious dose of Mexican charm!
moderateIs the Eureka Peak Road in Joshua Tree National Park unpaved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, adventure seekers, let’s talk Eureka Peak! This hidden gem is perched way up in Yucca Valley, in the Black Rock Canyon area of Joshua Tree National Park. The 1.3-mile road (Eureka Peak Road) to the top is a total dirt road, and it gets pretty sandy in sections. It's usually in good shape, with just a couple of bumpy patches, but be aware that it can get rutted, especially after it rains. A high-clearance vehicle should handle it just fine, but definitely check in with the park rangers to get the latest scoop on road conditions before you head out. The road climbs 370 feet, giving you an average grade of 5.40%. At the end of the road, you will find a small parking area. So, is it worth the trek? Absolutely! The views are incredible, and you'll be exploring a quieter part of the park. Once you reach the summit, you'll be treated to panoramic vistas of the San Bernardino and Santa Rosa Mountains, all framed by classic Joshua Tree desert scenery. Plus, because it's a bit off the beaten path, you might even have the place all to yourself. One thing to keep in mind: watch out for snakes!
hardDriving the treacherously steep Bella Coola Road in British Columbia
🇨🇦 Canada
Get ready for the Bella Coola Road – a 454-kilometer (282-mile) adventure across British Columbia that'll take your breath away! This isn't just a drive; it's an experience, linking Bella Coola with Williams Lake. Also known as Highway 20 or the Chilcotin Highway, this route carves its way from the Central Interior to the Central Coast, serving up a hefty dose of the Coast Mountains and Chilcotin Plateau. Think dramatic landscapes: desert canyons echoing near the Fraser River, and soaring glaciated peaks. The first 319 km is paved, taking you to Anahim Lake. After that, it's gravel road all the way. You'll definitely want to stay focused on those hairpin turns! This isn't a Sunday cruise; it's a "low gear, full concentration" kind of drive. The real kicker? "The Hill," a set of switchbacks leading up to Heckman Pass at 1,524 meters (5,000 feet). Then brace yourself for a thrilling 43 km (27 mi) descent into the Bella Coola Valley, featuring grades up to 18% (yikes!), which some say is the steepest in BC. Remember, uphill traffic has the right-of-way on those single-lane bits! Driving into Bella Coola is absolutely worth it! With limited services along the way, make sure you're prepared. Fill up the tank! You can make the whole trip in a day, especially in summer, but plan to take your time and soak in those views. Fun fact: Built in 1953, the road is nicknamed the "Freedom Road" by locals, who remember how isolated they were before its completion.
moderateIs Soldier Pass Road in Sedona unpaved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Just outside Sedona, where Coconino and Yavapai counties meet, lies Soldier Pass Road (aka Forest Service 9904 Road) and it is calling your name. We're talking a mile of pure, unadulterated, unpaved fun. Picture this: you, your high-clearance 4x4, tackling rocky ledges and obstacles like a boss. This isn't your Sunday cruise, folks. This is an off-road playground with seriously scenic views and access to cool spots like the Devil's Kitchen sinkhole and the Seven Sacred Pools. Word to the wise: this hidden gem gets popular, especially on weekends. Make sure to check the weather, as things can get dicey. The road is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., but here's the kicker: you NEED a permit to drive it, and they only issue 12 per day. Parking is super limited (think 14 spots), so get there early or be prepared to hike. Trust me, the early bird gets the off-road worm on this one!