Riadong La: Driving the remote S224 road in the Qiajajima Mountains

Okay, buckle up adventurers, because Riadong La Pass in Qinghai, China, is calling your name! Perched way up high at 5,005m (16,420ft), this mountain pass straddles the edge of Zadoi and Zhidoi counties, deep within the Yushu Prefecture. We’re talking serious Tibetan Plateau wilderness vibes here.

Think of it as a brand-new (and I mean *brand-new*) gateway slicing through the Qiajajima mountains, which act as a natural barrier between the Mekong and Yangtze rivers. You'll be smack-dab in the Sanjiangyuan National Nature Reserve, cruising alongside the Angqiansong River. Trees? Forget about it. This is high alpine tundra all the way.

Now, about the road... well, "road" is a generous term. It’s the S224, and it’s completely unpaved. Picture this: loose gravel, dirt tracks, and a surface that's constantly battling the elements. A high-clearance 4x4 is absolutely non-negotiable. Get ready for washboards, dust clouds in the dry season, and mud pits after the rain. Oh, and did I mention there are no guardrails? The path often hugs the cliffs right next to the river!

The entire route stretches 198 km (123 miles) from Zhidoi to Zadoi, and plan on a solid 8-9 hours to complete the journey, even without long stops. The challenging terrain and the altitude (most of the drive is over 4,000 meters!) will slow you down. And remember, there are zero gas stations or repair shops between the two towns, so you need to be fully self-sufficient.

The two biggest concerns? Altitude sickness and mechanical issues. At that height, the air is thin, so be prepared for potential headaches and engine struggles. Also, the weather can flip on a dime – expect snow or sleet, even in August! That gravel can get super slippery. And because you are right next to the Angqiansong River, be aware that parts of the road can disappear due to erosion or flash floods. Pack extra fuel, a satellite phone, and maybe some oxygen for good measure.

This pass is generally only open from late June to early September. The rest of the year, it’s a snowy, sub-zero wasteland. Even in summer, expect freezing temperatures at night. And if it starts raining hard, just stop! The roadbeds here are new and can easily wash out.