How long is the Copper River Highway?
Usa, north-america
79.7 km
N/A
hard
Year-round
Cruising through the Valdez-Cordova area of Alaska? You HAVE to check out the Copper River Highway. This isn't just a drive; it's an experience! Clocking in at just under 50 miles (around 80 km), this road starts in the town of Cordova and hugs the old Copper River and Northwestern Railway bed, leading you towards the iconic Million Dollar Bridge over Miles Glacier.
Now, here's the scoop: after the highway ends, a rugged, unpaved section stretches another 10 miles (16 km) towards the Allen River. But be warned! Beyond the bridge, it gets pretty dicey. Most vehicles tap out after another couple of miles due to a steep drop-off. Only serious off-road rigs need apply beyond that point!
Heads up: Mother Nature keeps things interesting here. The road is currently closed past mile 36 because of erosion near Bridge 339. They're working on a fix, but for now, that's the end of the line.
The first 12 miles (19 km) are smooth sailing on pavement, then it's gravel road fun the rest of the way. This route is PACKED with amazing trails and scenic overlooks. Just keep in mind that winter shuts down the road beyond Mile 12.4. Even in spring, snow can block access to some spots. But when it's open? Totally worth it for the views!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 79.7 km
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
extremeCameron Mountain Pass
馃嚭馃嚫 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! If you're in Chaffee County, Colorado and craving a serious off-road thrill, you HAVE to check out Cameron Mountain Pass. We're talking a lung-busting 9,940 feet above sea level! County Road 175 is your ticket to the top, but fair warning: this ain't your grandma's Sunday drive. We're talking a 4WD-only gravel track that gets rocky and muddy in spots. And listen, Mother Nature calls the shots up here. Don't even THINK about it if the weather looks sketchy. Avalanches, heavy snow, and landslides are real possibilities, and those icy patches? No joke. But if you're prepared and the conditions are right, the views are absolutely epic. Get ready for some serious mountain scenery!
moderateDriving through the Federal Road 95D
馃嚥馃嚱 Mexico
Okay, adventure seekers, buckle up for a wild ride on Mexico's Carretera Federal 95D! This isn't your average highway; it's a 76.2 km (47.34 miles) stretch of pure adrenaline connecting Mexico City and Cuernavaca. Picture this: you're cruising south from Mexico City, the pavement's smooth, and BAM! You're climbing, baby, all the way up to a staggering 3,070m (10,072ft) above sea level. The views? Epic! Mountains and valleys as far as the eye can see. But hold on tight, because what goes up must come down, and you'll be plunging to 1,600m (5,249ft) as you roll into Cuernavaca. Word of warning: this road has a reputation, especially that sharp curve known as "La Pera" (The Pear). It's notorious, so keep your eyes peeled and your wits about you. This route is a heart-pumper, known as one of the most intense drives in the country.
extremeThe Bloody Ortega Highway: California's Deadly Road with a Haunted Past
馃嚭馃嚫 Usa
California's Ortega Highway, snaking between Riverside and Orange counties, is one wild ride! This two-lane beauty connects San Juan Capistrano near the coast to Lake Elsinore inland, stretching for about 28 miles. Don't let the gorgeous mountain views, pine forests, and valleys fool you - this road has a reputation! With nicknames like Dead Man's Curve and Blood Alley, it's known for its tricky turns and sadly, its accidents, especially among motorcyclists. Built back in the day, it's a paved road that winds its way through the Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park, named after a Spanish explorer. It's perfect for an adrenaline rush! But hold on, there's more to the story! Legend has it that the Ortega Highway is haunted. You'll be passing through an old Indian trail where mountain lions roam and hawks circle, and it was once a dumping ground for serial killers. Keep an eye out for ghostly hitchhikers, crazed gnomes, the Grim Reaper, and other spooky figures along the way!
hardWhere is Boquer贸n Volcano?
馃實 El Salvador
Okay, buckle up, adventure seekers! We're heading to El Boquer贸n Volcano, practically in San Salvador's backyard! The road, *Carretera al Parque Nacional El Boquer贸n*, is a quick but intense 2-kilometer climb to just under 1,800 meters, almost kissing the volcano's peak. Get ready for a leg-burning average gradient of 9.8%! The road narrows, but don't worry, the quality is surprisingly good. You'll be surrounded by incredible views the whole way as you ascend to the national park. Just be prepared for a seriously steep climb!