Where are the 11 Steepest Streets in the USA? See the Ranking, including Waipio Valley's 45% Descent
Usa, north-america
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extreme
Year-round
Okay, gearheads and adventure seekers, let's talk about the gnarliest urban climbs in the US! Forget those boring highway miles – we're diving into roads that make your palms sweat and your engine work overtime.
Leading the pack with a jaw-dropping 45% drop is Waipio Valley Road in Hawaii. Seriously, this thing is legendary!
California dominates the list with eight spots, proving it's a haven for steep streets, especially around LA and San Francisco. These aren't just photo ops, folks. We're talking inclines so intense that anything over 30% demands serious traction. Expect a workout for your vehicle (4x4 might be a must!), and be aware that bad weather can shut these beasts down completely.
Hey, have you heard about the Pan-American Highway, it's the longest road in the world?
And don't get us started about how treacherous Red Mountain Pass in Colorado is during winter!
So, ditch the predictable routes and embrace the thrill! These roads are not for the faint of heart, but the views (and the bragging rights) are totally worth it.
Road Details
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- north-america
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- extreme
Related Roads in north-america
moderateA steep paved toll-road to the top of Equinox Mountain in Vermont
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trippers, buckle up for Mount Equinox Skyline Drive in Vermont! This paved toll road, clocking in at 5.2 miles, is your ticket to the summit of the highest peak in the Taconic Range. You'll find the entrance just off Route 7A, south of Manchester, and it's the longest privately-owned paved toll road in the USA! Heads up: this beauty is usually closed from November to April. Plus, no buses, RVs, or mega-vans allowed, and leave your bikes and boats at home for this one. When it's open (Memorial Day to October 31st, weather permitting), you can cruise it from 9 AM to 5 PM. Pro tip: pack a jacket – it's usually breezy up there! Located smack-dab in the Green Mountain National Forest, the views are insane all the way up. There are pull-offs to soak it all in as you climb. At the top, you're greeted with panoramic views of Vermont, the Adirondacks, New Hampshire, and even a glimpse of five states and Canada on a clear day. You'll also find some interesting relics like communication towers and an old Cold War radar station. Cyclists, beware! This climb is legendary for its steepness. With an average gradient of 11.38% and some sections hitting almost 15%, it's a leg burner. Driving down? Take it slow, give your brakes some breathers, and downshift to let your engine help control your speed.
hardWhere is Hurrah Pass in Moab?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up for the Chicken Corners Trail, a wild ride near Moab, Utah! This 14.8-mile unpaved adventure starts from Kane Creek Canyon Road and winds its way to Fielder Natural Arch. We're talking about a route that straddles San Juan and Grand counties, taking you to a max elevation of 4,793 feet. The road shadows the Colorado River, climbing to the pass (the high point) and then descending to incredible views. For most of the route, a high-clearance SUV should be fine, but the last few miles definitely demand 4x4 capability – things get rough! Expect some seriously exposed sections that'll have you peering straight into canyons – totally worth the adrenaline rush, though. The views from Hurrah Pass are incredible. You can see the Colorado River, the Potash Evaporation ponds, Dead Horse Point, and Canyonlands National Park! You can usually tackle this trail year-round, but late spring and fall are ideal – summer can get scorching. Go early for the best light and to dodge the crowds. Trust me, this drive along the Colorado River is a must-do!
easyRoad trip guide: Conquering McKinney Tanks Summit
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip fans, listen up! You HAVE to check out McKinney Tanks Summit in Nevada's Nye County. We're talking a seriously cool mountain pass sitting pretty at 6,400 feet. You'll find it smack-dab in the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. The whole route is paved, so no need for the 4x4 unless you're going exploring after! It's US Route 6, also known as the Grand Army of the Republic Highway, and it's part of a massive coast-to-coast route stretching over 3,198 miles! Just picture yourself cruising along this two-lane blacktop. Think smooth, sweeping curves and some seriously dramatic elevation changes that'll keep you on your toes. The road's about 18 miles east of Tonopah, Nevada. The traffic is usually pretty chill, but keep an eye out for wandering cattle. Oh, and heads up if you're hauling hazardous materials—you'll need to register with the Nevada Department of Transportation. Overall, this road is twisty, scenic, and a total must-do!
hardDriving the paved Okanagan Connector to Pennask Summit in British Columbia
🇨🇦 Canada
Alright, road trip enthusiasts, buckle up for the Pennask Summit in beautiful British Columbia, Canada! This isn't just any drive; it's a climb to a whopping 1,733m (5,685ft) above sea level, making it the second-highest pass in BC. You'll find it along Highway 97C, aka the Okanagan Connector. This fully paved road stretches for 81.4 km (50.57 miles) across the Thompson Plateau, connecting Aspen Grove to Peachland in the Okanagan Valley. Keep in mind, those westward inclines can be a leg workout for your car, but trust me, the views are worth the effort. Speaking of views, prepare for some serious scenery! Pennask Summit is generally open year-round, but Mother Nature can be a bit unpredictable in the winter. So be aware that brief closures can happen. Named after the nearby Pennask Creek, this route is a must-do for any road-tripper looking for an unforgettable experience.