Phantom Canyon Road is a scenic drive in Colorado
Usa, north-america
47.63 km
2,896 m
moderate
Year-round
Get ready for an unforgettable Colorado adventure on Phantom Canyon Road! This historic and scenic dirt road winds between Cañon City and Victor, climbing from 5,500 to 9,500 feet through the heart of Phantom Canyon.
Located in the central part of Colorado, crossing Fremont and Teller counties, this route follows the old Florence & Cripple Creek Railroad line, dating back to 1894.
Clocking in at just under 30 miles, this Gold Belt Scenic Byway features hand-cut stone tunnels and three old-school steel and wooden bridges. This road steadily climbs, offering views and thrills. Mountain bikers and off-roaders love this area.
Keep in mind, this is a narrow, unpaved road, so nothing over 25 feet long. Prepare for rough-hewn, one-way tunnels, tight squeezes carved into the mountainside, and a cool curved bridge.
The dirt road isn't too challenging but can be a bit nerve-wracking. Expect some "hairy" spots where the road feels like a single lane with huge drop-offs and towering rock walls. The road carves through boulders with stunning canyon views. Topping out at 9,744 feet, winter maintenance is limited. It's a well-maintained dirt road but narrow, with some one-car-wide sections. Regular vehicles (no trailers) are fine if you take it easy and watch for rocks.
Allow around 2 hours for the drive. This scenic byway is full of photo opportunities. Weekends can be busy and dusty. The road and narrow bridges encourage slow speeds. The route provides a chance to see a wide range of plants and wildlife.
Where is it?
Phantom Canyon Road is a scenic drive in Colorado is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 39.1985, -97.9602
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 47.63 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,896 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 39.1985, -97.9602
Related Roads in north-america
extremeWhen was Cuesta de los Arrepentidos built?
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, buckle up, adventure seekers! Wanna tackle one of the world's wildest rides? Head to San Luis Potosí, Mexico, and find the legendary Cuesta de los Arrepentidos – the Repentant's Slope. This isn't just a road; it's a rollercoaster through history and breathtaking scenery, all rolled into one seriously intense drive. Picture this: You're climbing almost 9,000 feet (2,700 m) to reach the ghost mining town of Real de Catorce. This was the *only* way up for two centuries, carved out way back in 1778. Forget smooth asphalt; this 6.77-mile (10.9 km) stretch is a rugged, unpaved beast that runs west to east from Estación Catorce to Real de Catorce. Think ghost towns, abandoned mines, and the vast, otherworldly Wirikuta desert unfolding around you. Now, don't get me wrong – this isn't a Sunday drive. We're talking brutally steep climbs, seriously narrow paths, and terrifying drop-offs into canyons and dry riverbeds. This is 4x4 territory ONLY – leave your motorcycles and bikes at home. Keep an eye out for the infamously treacherous Paso del Diablo (Devil's Pass) and the eerie Socavón de la Purísima (Immaculate Conception's Sinkhole). The "easy" way in? Take Highway 62 to the 17-mile cobblestone road. You'll still have to tackle the Túnel Ogarrio, a dimly-lit, 2,300-meter long one-lane tunnel under the mountain! Get ready for a journey that'll test your limits and reward you with views you'll never forget. Cuesta de los Arrepentidos – are you brave enough?
hardWenatchee Mountain
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, adventure seekers! We're heading to Wenatchee Mountain in central Washington State, a beast of a peak topping out at 6,755 feet! This isn't your average Sunday drive. You'll be climbing high above the Mission Ridge Ski Resort, and trust me, the views from the lookout near the summit are worth the trek. But here's the thing: this road is a gravelly, rocky, bumpy ride that demands respect. A 4x4 isn't just recommended, it's practically mandatory. Expect steep climbs and a road that's slow going. We're talking ruts, rocks, and potentially tricky conditions. Keep an eye on the weather too - thunderstorms can quickly turn this road into a 4x4-only situation, or even make it impassable! And be prepared for some serious wind at the top – it can really whip up there. Basically, this road is a challenging climb, but with stunning panoramic views that make it an unforgettable adventure. Just be prepared! Also, the road is typically closed from October to June, weather permitting.
hardHenderson Mountain
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Henderson Mountain in Montana's Park County is calling your name, but be warned, this isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking a lung-busting climb to 9,983 feet! The road? Let's just say it's "rustic." Think gravel, rocks, bumps, and the occasional tippy moment. Definitely not for the faint of heart (or those who value their car's suspension). Winter? Forget about it – this road is snowed under most of the season. Seriously, experienced off-roaders only! You'll need a 4x4 and a healthy dose of courage. It's steep, and if it's wet, expect mud galore. Oh, and did I mention the views? Absolutely stunning... if you can keep your eyes on the road! Just try not to look down if heights aren't your thing. This wild ride is worth it for the views, if you're up for the challenge.
hardIs the road to Engineer Pass paved?
🇺🇸 Usa
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!