Where is Chicoma Mountain?
Usa, north-america
115.9 km
3,403 m
moderate
Year-round
Alright, adventure seekers, let's talk Chicoma Mountain in New Mexico! This peak, a relic of a massive supervolcano northwest of Santa Fe, boasts some seriously stunning views. To get there, you'll want to take Forest Road 144, running from Cuba (Sandoval County) to Española (Rio Arriba County).
This isn't your average Sunday drive – we're talking about 72 miles of high-elevation thrills, topping out at a whopping 11,164 feet! While the road is mostly unpaved, it’s generally well-maintained, but having good tires is always a smart move. Get ready for a journey through the heart of the Jemez Mountains, and some seriously unforgettable scenery.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 115.9 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,403 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
hardIs the road to Mount Brigham in Utah unpaved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Mount Brigham in Utah is calling your name! This beast of a peak clocks in at 11,676 feet, making it one of the highest drives in the state. Forget the pavement; Wedge Road is all about the dirt, so you'll need a high-clearance 4x4 to tackle this one. Get ready for a wild ride—we're talking steep climbs and a whole lotta hairpin turns (around 20!). Is it worth it? Absolutely! You'll find yourself smack-dab in central Utah, surrounded by the Tushar Mountains. Plus, the trail winds past old mining relics, giving you a peek into Utah's past. The summit's got this massive antenna thing going on, which is kind of cool in a quirky way. The climb from Marysvale is about 11.5 miles, with an elevation gain of 5,682 feet. That's an average gradient of 9.31%, so yeah, it's a workout for your vehicle! Keep in mind this isn't a year-round adventure. Snow usually keeps the road closed until late June or even July, so plan your trip for the summer months. Get ready for some serious off-road fun with incredible views!
moderateWhere is Tibbitt Contwoyto winter road?
🇨🇦 Canada
Ever dreamed of driving on water? The Tibbitt to Contwoyto Winter Road in Northern Canada is your chance! This incredible ice road, born in 1982, stretches up to 600 kilometers (372 miles) across the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. Imagine cruising over frozen lakes – they make up 85% of the route! The rest is on land, hopping between lakes. Starting about 65 km (40 mi) east of Yellowknife, this frozen highway twists and turns, ending (depending on the year) near the Ekati or Jericho Diamond Mines. It's not just a scenic drive; it's a vital supply line for mines, accessible only a few months each year (February to early April). The journey takes about 14-18 hours. Speed is seriously controlled to protect the ice, often down to a crawl of 25 km/h (16 mph), or even 10 km/h (6.2 mph) in some spots! Prepare for extreme conditions: high winds, storms, and limited visibility are common. Despite the challenges, this ice road is surprisingly safe, with constant monitoring and strict rules. So, if you're seeking a truly unique adventure, the Tibbitt to Contwoyto Winter Road awaits, offering breathtaking, desolate beauty and a drive you'll never forget.
hardA steep paved road to Tejon Pass in California
🇺🇸 Usa
Cruising through California and looking for an epic drive? Check out Tejon Pass! Nestled in Kern County, this high mountain pass tops out at 4,160 feet. The Spanish even named it after a badger ("Tejón") way back in 1806, thanks to a chance encounter with one. Located in Southern California, it's your main artery between the Central Valley and Los Angeles. You'll be rolling on Interstate 5 the whole way, the main north-south drag. This gateway offers some seriously steep sections. For truckers, there are even a couple of runaway ramps near the top—just in case! Locals often call this stretch "the Grapevine," especially the gnarly 5 1/2-mile section with a 6% grade. From the summit heading north, prepare for a 2,613-foot descent over 11.6 miles! Going southbound, it's about 22 miles of rolling hills before you hit the 5-mile grade, dropping 1,603 feet over 7.5 miles. The whole shebang runs for about 76 miles between Bakersfield and Santa Clarita. Word to the wise: the weather can be a real wildcard. Sunny skies can turn snowy in a flash. Winter can bring closures, and even when it's open, watch out for ice—especially with those steep grades and holiday traffic. But, overall, it's a must-do for anyone who loves hitting the open road and seeing some awesome views.
hardWhere is Lenawee Mountain?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventurers, listen up! You HAVE to check out Lenawee Mountain in Summit County, Colorado. Picture this: you're west of Denver, deep in the White River National Forest, and you're about to tackle a service road that climbs to a staggering 12,526 feet! This isn't your average Sunday drive. It's a wild, unpaved climb – mainly used to keep those ski lifts and lodges in tip-top shape. But when the snow melts, this beast opens up, offering insane views and a serious adrenaline rush. Clocking in at just over 2 miles, don't let the short distance fool you. You'll be gaining over 1,500 feet in elevation, and the gradient maxes out at a butt-clenching 19% in places. The final stretch is a nail-biter: exposed, high above the treeline, and not for the faint of heart! So, if you're looking for a crazy climb with jaw-dropping scenery, Lenawee Mountain is calling your name. Just remember, this road's rough, steep, and demands respect. Are you ready for the challenge?