Is the road to Engineer Pass paved?
Usa, north-america
17.7 km
3,901 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, so picture this: Engineer Pass, Colorado. We're talking a whopping 12,800 feet above sea level in the heart of the San Juan Mountains. This isn’t your Sunday drive – it's an unpaved, rocky adventure that'll have you hugging the curves in first gear.
You'll find the start of the fun just four miles south of Ouray, right off the famous Million Dollar Highway. Be warned, the first couple of miles are the roughest, so if you're new to the off-roading scene, take it slow.
This road is definitely best suited for high-clearance, short-wheelbase 4x4s; a full-size pickup might feel a bit claustrophobic. While most of the route is manageable, there are a few steep and narrow spots on the west side that will get your adrenaline pumping.
This historic toll road, dating back to the late 1870s, was built to connect Silverton, Animas Forks, Ouray, and Lake City. Typically, you can access the pass from late May to late October, but those Colorado snows can be unpredictable, so be sure to check conditions. Definitely don’t attempt it if it’s snow-covered, and always use caution, especially when it’s wet.
But trust me, it's worth the effort! At the summit, you're rewarded with mind-blowing 360-degree views of towering peaks, including Mt. Sneffels and Uncompahgre Peak. You'll also get a glimpse of the massive Lake City volcanic caldera.
Along the way, keep an eye out for old mines, ghost towns, and vibrant wildflowers. Fishing, hiking, camping – it's all here! It's an exhilarating off-road experience with incredible views, mines, waterfalls, and historical intrigue. Get ready for a trip back in time on a road once traveled by miners and merchants!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 17.7 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,901 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
hardMattole Road is a Lost Coastal Scenic Drive in California
🇺🇸 Usa
Get ready for an unforgettable road trip along the Mattole Road, also known as the Lost Coast Scenic Drive! Tucked away in Humboldt County, California, this 65-mile (104 km) route offers a glimpse into the wildest side of the Golden State. Prepare for an adventure! The road starts near US-101 and winds its way to Ferndale, with a mix of paved and short unpaved sections that add to the rustic charm. Expect steep climbs, reaching a maximum elevation of 2,434 feet (742 m). Heads up: this road can be a bit rough. Watch out for potholes and the occasional partially washed-out area. It's best to avoid driving in the rain or at night. Cell service is spotty, so download those maps beforehand! Keep an eye out for tsunami warning signs too, as this area is seismically active. The two-lane road can be narrow, with plenty of curves and gravelly switchbacks, so take your time. But trust me, the views are worth it! The dramatic ocean vistas are breathtaking. Even before the ocean comes into full view, the drive itself is awe-inspiring. It'll take around 2 hours to complete the drive, so pack some snacks and get ready to soak in the scenery. Mattole Road offers incredible views of California's "Lost Coast," the longest completely undeveloped stretch of shoreline in the state. It's no wonder National Geographic thinks it's one of the most scenic drives in the U.S.!
hardTravel guide to the top of Tincup Pass in Colorado
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk Tincup Pass in Colorado! This stunner of a road sits at a whopping 12,171 feet above sea level, making it one of the highest drives in the state. You'll find it chilling west of the ghost town of Saint Elmo, right on the line between Chaffee and Gunnison counties. Heads up: this is a 12.7-mile unpaved adventure on County Road 267, linking the town of Tincup to the eerie St. Elmo. The season's short – typically mid-June to early autumn, snow permitting. Because, yeah, even early July can see snow up here! You'll definitely want a high-clearance 4x4 with low-range gearing for this one – it's easier going from the east. The road's generally decent, but expect eroded sections with rocks, especially on the west side. There are a few steep spots and narrow areas, and near the top, it gets seriously tight with cliff edges. Rocky at the summit, and that shelf road at 12,000 feet can hold snow well into summer. Usually, you'll have enough room to pass other vehicles (mostly ATVs). This old wagon road (built back in 1881) cuts through the Gunnison and San Isabel National Forests and puts you right on the Continental Divide. The pass gets its name from a prospector who toted his gold home in a tin cup back in the day! But the real reason to come? The views! High alpine scenery galore. Plan on a 2-3 hour trip with photo stops. You'll cruise through aspen forests at lower elevations and get insane views of the Rockies. Keep an eye out for marmots and other wildlife, and don't miss Mirror Lake. Trust me, it's a four-wheeling paradise.
moderateHow long is the Mountain Loop Highway in Washington?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip fans, let's talk about the Mountain Loop Highway in Washington's Snohomish County! This scenic gem stretches for about 52.5 miles from Granite Falls to Darrington, nestled between the Pilchuck and Stillaguamish rivers. Most of the road is paved, but get ready for a little off-the-beaten-path action! A 14-mile gravel section winds around Barlow Pass, offering a taste of adventure as it takes you past old town sites and historic claims. Prepare to be wowed by rushing rivers and views of glacier-covered peaks! Heads up: This beauty is a seasonal treat. Sitting high in the Cascades, peaking at 2,355 feet, the highway closes each winter from Deer Creek to Bedal, typically reopening in May. And remember, mountain weather is unpredictable, so even outside winter, snow and ice can happen. Good news: You probably don't need a super-rugged ride. Most cars can handle Forest Route 20, just take it slow and easy, especially on that gravel stretch. This road has some history, too. Construction started way back in 1936 and wrapped up in 1941. Get ready for some serious Pacific Northwest beauty!
extremeTop of the World is one of the gnarliest roads of Moab
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! If you're heading to Moab, Utah, and you're craving a view that'll knock your socks off, you HAVE to check out Top of the World. Perched at 7,050 feet, this natural viewpoint gives you a killer panorama from a 3,000-foot cliff overlook. Seriously, it might just be the best view in the whole state. Getting there is half the adventure! The Top of the World trail, about 9.5 miles long, is a totally unpaved 4x4 route that kicks off from UT-128. Now, let's be real: this drive is no Sunday cruise. We're talking broken, layered rock, shelves of all sizes, loose rock, ledges, bedrock, sand, and even a little slickrock. The last few miles are seriously intense, so you'll want a rig that can handle it. Think 35" tires, a 3" lift, and lockers. This trail is bumpy with obstacles, so drivers can break an axle if not careful. Stock SUVs should probably sit this one out. Pack your tools and gear because help is a long way away if you get into trouble. Oh, and hold on to your hat! The wind up here can be wild, rushing up from the valley below. The climb involves slickrock, rock shelves, and steps. Oversized tires, high clearance, and a rear locker are highly recommended. Surprisingly, cell service is pretty good, even in this remote spot. The road gets steep, with gradients hitting 15% in places. And if it's raining or snowy, unless you're a pro with a winch, save this adventure for another day. Give yourself 2.5 to 3.5 hours to drive the trail without stopping. Trust me, you'll want to stop for photos! The trail ends at the lookout point, overlooking one of the most picturesque views of the Utah landscape. Just be super careful near the cliff edge – there are no handrails, and it's not suitable for kids. But the 360° views from Waring Mesa are worth it! You'll be treated to epic views of Fisher Valley, Onion Creek, and the La Sal Mountains. It’s an amazing canyon view and it’s not to be missed! This drive is challenging, but the reward is a panorama you won't soon forget. Get ready to say "WOW!"