How to get by car to Gird Point in Montana?
Usa, north-america
N/A
1,062 m
hard
Year-round
Deep in Ravalli County, Montana, a backcountry adventure awaits on the road to Gird Point. This high mountain summit, nestled within the Bitterroot National Forest, boasts some of the most incredible wilderness views Montana has to offer.
Your journey begins off the famous Telephone Canyon Road. From there, you'll connect to Gird Creek Road (714-Gird Point Road), a winding mountain path stretching for about 11 miles. While the average grade is manageable, the road climbs a whopping 3,484 feet, throwing in 23 hairpin turns for good measure. Expect a gravel, rocky, and at times "tippy" ride – a high-clearance 4x4 is definitely recommended to handle the off-camber sections and loose stones.
At the summit, you'll discover a historic lookout tower built in 1939, strategically placed for a 360-degree view of the Sapphire, Bitterroot, and Anaconda Pintler mountain ranges. The panoramic views from here are unmatched, showcasing the vast and wild Montana landscape.
Keep in mind that Gird Point Road is strictly closed during winter due to heavy snowfall. Even during the open season, be prepared for unpredictable weather – mountain storms can quickly turn the rocky surface into a slippery challenge. The isolation of the route means self-sufficiency is key, as help isn't readily available.
Gird Point is a demanding drive, requiring sustained focus through those 23 hairpins on a bumpy, gravel surface. Those "tippy" sections can be a bit unnerving, but the reward is incredible solitude and unparalleled views. This road demands respect, but for those who are prepared, it offers a truly unique Montana experience.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Max Elevation
- 1,062 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
extremeWhere is McMillan Peak in Colorado?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, adventure junkies, because McMillan Peak in Colorado is calling your name! This bad boy sits pretty in San Juan County, just north of Silverton, right in the heart of the Million Dollar Highway zone. So, what's the deal? Well, you're looking at a short but seriously intense 3.2 km (2-mile) climb up to the summit, where a rad telecommunications antenna chills. Don't let the short distance fool you; this ain't your grandma's Sunday drive. We're talking a whopping 447 meters of elevation gain, averaging a crazy 14% gradient! Now, listen up: you NEED a high-clearance 4WD beast to even think about tackling this. Forget your cute crossover; this is strictly for the off-road pros. The unpaved road is a mix of loose gravel, dirt, and rocky bits, so low-range gearing is your best friend. Plus, the road is narrow with zero guardrails. Heads up, this peak is a summer fling only. We're talking late June to mid-September, tops. The rest of the year, it's a snowy wonderland, and not in a good way. Avalanches are a real danger, so always check local conditions before you head out. The main things to watch out for are the STEEPNESS and the unpredictable weather. Afternoon thunderstorms can turn that dry dirt into a slippery mudslide in seconds. And FYI, you're off the grid up there – no cell service, so pack accordingly and make sure your rig is in tip-top shape, especially those brakes and the cooling system! But hey, you'll be rewarded with insane views of the Red Mountains and the historic mining district. This place is all about the views!
moderateIs New Mexico State Road 126 paved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip fans, let's talk NM-126 in New Mexico's Sandoval County! This isn't just a drive, it's an experience. First, you're cruising on smooth pavement, winding into the mountains – pure bliss! But hold on, things get interesting. For about 8 miles, the road turns into a dirt track, sometimes just wide enough for one car, with hairpin turns galore. We're talking hills, canyons, and maybe a minor washout or two. Seriously, only tackle this stretch when it's dry. Overall, NM-126 clocks in at about 38 miles, connecting NM-4 to Cuba on US-550. The views are incredible, mountain vistas that'll make you want to pull over every five minutes. Just a heads up: keep an eye out for deer and elk, especially at night. This road climbs high, reaching almost 8,800 feet in the Jemez Mountains. A word of caution: the middle part of this route is often closed during winter. Also, be aware that rain can make the dirt section impassable for a few days. So, plan accordingly and get ready for an unforgettable New Mexico adventure!
hardInner Basin
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk Inner Basin in Arizona's Coconino County! We're talking serious altitude here – almost 10,000 feet! This isn't your Sunday drive. The road to the top, nestled in Coconino National Forest, is a real 4x4 challenge. Think gravel, rocks, and some seriously uneven terrain. Winter? Forget about it – this road is usually snowed in. But if you've got the skills and the right vehicle, especially in the fall, the views are *insane*. Just be warned, it's steep and can get muddy, so maybe skip it if heights aren't your thing or you're not comfortable on unpaved mountain roads. Trust me, though, if you're up for it, this is an Arizona adventure you won't forget!
easyA Desert Trip: The Scenic Pinto Basin Road in the Joshua Tree NP
🇺🇸 Usa
Cruising through Joshua Tree National Park? You absolutely HAVE to take Pinto Basin Road! This fully paved, two-lane beauty stretches for nearly 30 miles (47km) and is essentially the main artery slicing through the heart of the park. This recently revamped road (Park Route 11) whisks you from the Mojave Desert to the Sonoran Desert, showcasing the incredible diversity of the landscape. Keep your eyes peeled, because this area is STUNNING! But remember, safety first! Watch your speed, especially with those gradients hitting up to 5.3% in places. Sadly, many animals (including desert tortoises) are roadkill victims, so drive responsibly. Reaching a dizzying height of almost 4,000 feet (1,197m), the views are breathtaking. But the desert has its dangers. Be aware of rattlesnakes, scorpions, and black widows if you're hiking. Summer brings scorching heat and intense sun, and flash floods can strike without warning – so pay attention to weather reports and never drive through standing water! Stay safe and enjoy this unforgettable desert adventure.