Kaiser Pass is a classic road trip in Sierra National Forest
Usa, north-america
36.04 km
2,803 m
moderate
Year-round
Kaiser Pass is a super high mountain pass nestled in Fresno County, California, clocking in at a whopping 9,196 feet! It's definitely one of the highest roads you'll find in the Golden State.
The road itself, aptly named Kaiser Pass Road, is a fully paved adventure that winds for about 22.4 miles from CA-168 (near Huntington Lake) all the way to Florence Lake.
Now, a word of caution: if you're not a fan of narrow mountain roads where backing up for oncoming traffic is the norm, this might not be your cup of tea. It's a winding, sometimes one-lane (ish) road, so take it slow and easy. There are pull-over spots, but be prepared to do a little maneuvering. Big rigs and trailers? Probably best to skip this one. The road gets steep, with grades hitting 12% in some spots. For a good chunk of the drive, it feels like you're on a goat path: narrow, steep, twisty, exposed, and riddled with potholes. The first five miles are smooth sailing on a two-lane highway, but the last 12 miles get pretty narrow and curvy. You'll be cruising at around 20 MPH, tops. There are only 3 areas that are cliffy.
Perched high in the Sierras, the road is usually closed during the winter months, typically open from late May to mid-November. If you're heading up during shoulder seasons, be prepared for anything – winter driving conditions might call for chains or cables, and the weather can change on a dime.
Located in the Sierra National Forest, the views are incredible. Set aside about 1.5 hours to drive it without stopping. Also, keep in mind this is bear country, so store your food properly and definitely don't feed the wildlife. And don't forget your mosquito repellent!
Where is it?
Kaiser Pass is a classic road trip in Sierra National Forest is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 38.9998, -92.0834
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 36.04 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,803 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 38.9998, -92.0834
Related Roads in north-america
easyExplore the Scenic Beauty of Alberta Provincial Highway 40
🇨🇦 Canada
# Alberta Highway 40: A Must-Drive Alpine Adventure If you're looking for one of Canada's most stunning road trips, Highway 40 in Alberta absolutely delivers. This epic 1,021 km (634 miles) stretch winds from the small mountain town of Coleman in the southwest all the way up to Grande Prairie in the northwest—and trust me, every kilometer is worth it. You'll know this route by a few names: Highway 40, the Bighorn Highway, or the Kananaskis Trail. Fair warning though—some sections are paved while others are gravel, so come prepared for a bit of variety. The real showstopper? Highwood Pass, where you'll summit at an impressive 2,217m (7,273ft)—the highest elevation of any highway crossing in Canada. You'll be cruising right near the treeline, surrounded by snow patches that stubbornly stick around even during summer months. It's genuinely spectacular, but heads up: this section closes annually from December 1 to June 14, and winter weather can shut things down without warning elsewhere on the route. What makes this drive truly special is the wildlife and scenery. Throughout your journey, you'll spot bears, elk, moose, mountain goats, and coyotes roaming against a backdrop of jaw-dropping mountain vistas. The Canadian Rockies frame every turn, making this one of those road trips that'll have you stopping constantly for photos. Whether you're after a day trip or a longer adventure, Highway 40 captures the raw beauty of western Alberta in a way that'll stay with you long after you've returned home.
hardSchnebly Hill Road is an amusement ride in Sedona
🇺🇸 Usa
If you're anywhere near Sedona, Arizona, you HAVE to check out Schnebly Hill Road. Tucked away in the Coconino National Forest, just east of Sedona, this 12-mile dirt track (also known as FS Road 153) connects AZ-179 to Interstate-17. Heads up though — this isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking seriously bumpy, steep, and twisty. Think of it more like an off-road adventure than a leisurely cruise! You'll definitely need a high-clearance vehicle, and honestly, four-wheel drive is your best friend here. But trust me, the challenge is SO worth it! As you climb to its peak (almost 6,515 feet!), the views are insane. Narrow turnouts along the way give you the perfect excuse to stop and soak it all in. Schnebly Hill Vista overlooks the Verde Valley and Sedona, with Steamboat Rock and the Mingus Mountains painting a perfect landscape. The overlook at the top of the road is legendary, especially at sunrise. Just be prepared for the rough ride! Oh, and this road is closed in the winter, so plan your trip accordingly.
hardComanche Peak
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! Comanche Peak in Colfax County, New Mexico, is calling your name if you're up for a serious off-road adventure. Nestled high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, this bad boy tops out at a whopping 10,744 feet! This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks. We're talking seriously rough terrain – tippy, bumpy, and definitely not for the faint of heart. Forget about even *thinking* about it in winter; you'll likely be snowed out well into July. Experienced off-roaders, this one's for you. Expect a narrow trail where passing is a puzzle and some seriously steep sections. A high-clearance vehicle isn't just recommended, it's essential. But hey, with the challenge comes incredible scenery. Just imagine those views from the top! Comanche Peak promises an unforgettable ride, if you're prepared for the wild.
hardEbbetts Pass is a very steep narrow road in Sierra Nevada
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! You NEED to add Ebbetts Pass to your California road trip itinerary. This hidden gem, nestled in Alpine County, climbs to a breathtaking 8,746 feet! This road isn't just a drive; it's an experience. Picture this: you're winding through the Sierra Nevada on California State Route 4 (also known as Alpine State Highway and part of the Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway) a completely paved, 61-mile stretch from Arnold to Markleeville. This is one of the quietest passes in the Sierras, so you might even feel like you have the mountains to yourself. Now, a little history: Back in 1851, John Ebbetts thought this route might be perfect for a transcontinental railroad but alas, it wasn’t to be. Today, the pass bears his name! Heads up, though: this road is not for the faint of heart. Expect seriously steep sections – up to a gut-wrenching 24% grade! And those hairpin turns? They're blind, they're tight, and they demand your full attention. Definitely not recommended for big rigs, buses, or RVs! Also, keep an eye out for when the snow starts to fall, usually in early November, as the pass is not plowed and will close. You can usually expect it to open again around Memorial Day. What you get in return are views that will blow your mind. Think soaring alpine vistas, charming little hamlets, and a raw, untamed beauty that's hard to find anywhere else. Just be prepared to downshift and hug those curves – this is one ride you won't soon forget.