Planning Your Road Trip Adventure
Canada, north-america
N/A
N/A
easy
Year-round
Okay, picture this: Route du Nord, Quebec. This baby's REMOTE. Think vast, empty spaces and hardly any other cars. If you're looking to get away from it all and soak in some serious solitude, this is your road. It's not for the faint of heart — make sure your car is reliable and you're prepared for self-sufficiency. But the payoff? Untouched wilderness and a sense of being utterly alone in a breathtaking part of Canada. This isn't just a drive, it's an escape.
Road Details
- Country
- Canada
- Continent
- north-america
- Difficulty
- easy
Related Roads in north-america
extremeThe Old Mexico 101: Why Drivers Once Detoured to Avoid This Mountain Road
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, buckle up for a ride on Mexico's Carretera Federal 101, connecting San Luis Potosí and Ciudad Victoria! Back in the day, this was *the* way to go, but let me tell you, it earned a reputation, and not exactly a good one. This old road was known for being seriously gnarly. We're talking narrow, twisty, and a real test of your driving skills. So much so, that many truck drivers avoided it like the plague, adding major miles to their trips just to stay safe. Thankfully, things have changed! In 2008, a shiny new bypass (Tamaulipas state highway 126) opened up, and it's now the go-to route for most folks. But if you're a bit of a road trip rebel, the old 101 still has something to offer. Think incredible views of the northern Sierra Madre Oriental Mountains, with a landscape that’s mostly semi-desert. It's a total classic Mexican road trip experience. Just a heads-up: even though it’s better-engineered than it used to be, you’ll still encounter some tight hairpin turns and long, steep descents as you climb from Victoria (at 320 meters above sea level) to a mountain pass sitting pretty at 1,520 meters. If you’re all about safety and speed, stick to the bypass. But if you’re a history buff, an engineering geek, or just love a good mountain drive with a little bit of an edge, the old Mexico 101 is worth a look. It’s a fascinating reminder of what driving in Mexico used to be like!
moderateOnion Valley Road is one of the steepest climbs of California
🇺🇸 Usa
Cruising through the heart of California's Owens Valley? You HAVE to experience Onion Valley Road! Tucked between the Sierra Nevada mountains and Nevada, this 13-mile stretch is an absolute stunner (but be warned, it's a leg-burner!). Formerly known as California State Route 180, the road climbs from the town of Independence on US 395 right up to Onion Valley Campground. Aim to go between May and November, when the road's usually open (snow permitting!). You'll climb to a whopping 9,219 feet above sea level, making it one of California's highest roads. Located in the Inyo National Forest, Onion Valley Road is not for the faint of heart (or cyclists with weak quads!). The last ten miles average over 8%, so prepare for a serious workout. Starting in Independence at 3,937 feet, you'll gain a massive 5,266 feet over the 13-mile ascent. Expect a fully paved road with nine switchbacks that will have you gripping the wheel! About halfway up, you'll be rewarded with incredible views of the Owens Valley. Just a heads up: this area is known for bear activity, so keep your eyes peeled! The views of Owens Valley and the Sierras are worth the white-knuckle drive. Trust me, the scenery is absolutely breathtaking.
hardBig Ridge
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, Utah road trippers, listen up! Big Ridge. We're talking a whopping 11,099 feet high in Duchesne County! This isn't your Sunday drive kinda road. Forest Road 199 is a rugged climb, seriously rocky and steep. Winter? Forget about it, totally impassable. If you're not comfy on unpaved, challenging mountain roads, maybe skip this one. Definitely bring your 4x4 and a good dose of courage, because heights are a major player here. Prepare for some seriously steep sections, but the views? Totally worth the white knuckles.
moderateBroken Arrow Trail
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, adventure seekers! Broken Arrow Trail in Arizona, straddling Coconino and Yavapai counties, is calling your name! Nestled within the Coconino National Forest, this 4-mile off-road rollercoaster to Chicken Point is a must-do for experienced drivers. Expect gravel, rocks, and plenty of bumps along the way. You'll gain about 300 feet in elevation. SUVs with higher ground clearance are your best bet for conquering this trail. The views are absolutely phenomenal – get ready for 360-degree vistas of the stunning Southwest wilderness. Every twist and turn is a photo op. Remember those classic Westerns? Some were even filmed here, including Jimmy Stewart’s "Broken Arrow"! But don't be fooled by the scenery; this isn't a Sunday drive. This road is rough, and standard cars need not apply. A 4WD vehicle and some serious driving skills are required. Watch out for rock ledges, especially "The Measures," a steep obstacle that can be intimidating. Conditions are always changing. What might be smooth sailing one day could become a slippery, muddy mess after a little rain. Be prepared for anything!