Where is Cinnamon Pass in Colorado?
Usa, north-america
31 km
3,853 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, picture this: Cinnamon Pass, perched way up at 12,640 feet in the Colorado Rockies, straddling Hinsdale and San Juan counties. This isn't your Sunday drive, folks. We're talking about a 19.5-mile off-road adventure on Cinnamon Pass Road, part of the legendary Alpine Loop.
You'll need a 4WD with high clearance to tackle this baby. The road's unpaved and can get pretty gnarly, especially on the western ascent, with steep, rocky sections that turn treacherous when wet. Even the easier eastern side demands a capable vehicle. Be prepared for some serious shelf roads, where passing other vehicles can get a little hairy.
The scenery, though? Totally worth it. Think panoramic views of the San Juan National Forest and classic Colorado high country. Just keep in mind this popular route can get crowded in the summer. The pass is usually open from late May to October, but that all depends on the snow situation. If you're not afraid of heights and love a good off-road challenge, Cinnamon Pass is calling your name.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 31 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,853 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
Related Roads in north-america
hardKaibab Plateau
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Have you heard about the Kaibab Plateau in Arizona? We're talking serious elevation here – a whopping 9,200 feet! This isn't your average Sunday drive. You'll find yourself winding through the Kaibab National Forest on Forest Road 270, a gravel and rocky track that’ll test your off-road skills. Trust me, this road earns its keep. Winter? Forget about it, it’s totally impassable. If unpaved roads and heights aren’t your thing, maybe grab a postcard instead. But if you're up for a challenge, a 4x4 is your best friend. Prepare for some steep climbs, but the views? Absolutely worth it!
hardWhere is Sedgwick Peak?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, adventure seekers, listen up! Wanna bag a peak in Idaho? Sedgwick Peak is calling your name! Tucked away in Bannock County, inside the Caribou-Targhee National Forest south of Pocatello, this bad boy tops out at 9,156 feet. Word has it that it *might* be named after General John Sedgwick, but who really knows for sure? So, how do you get there? Road W, baby! It's a completely unpaved climb to the summit, with views for days. But hold your horses - this isn't a Sunday drive. Think steep sections, super rocky terrain, and the need for some serious grip. We're talking a 4WD, high-clearance vehicle. Trust me, you'll thank me later. The climb starts from Thunder Mountain Road and stretches for about 6.6 miles. You'll gain a solid 2,683 feet in elevation, making for an average grade of around 7.7%. Once you reach the top you will find communication towers, a weather station, and radio equipment. Breathtaking views are your reward! Just remember, good tires and even better brakes are your best friends on the way down!
hardWhere is Coastal Drive Loop?
🇺🇸 Usa
Cruising the Coastal Drive Loop in Redwood National Park is an absolute must for dramatic Northern California scenery! Once a two-way road, this mostly unpaved loop now runs one-way northbound and packs some serious coastal punch. Clocking in at only a few miles, don't let the length fool you. This narrow, winding road throws steep grades and hairpin turns your way, but the views of the Pacific and the Klamath River estuary are SO worth it. Keep your eyes peeled for whales, sea lions, and pelicans from the overlooks – you might get lucky! Heads up: the southern portion of the loop, from Alder Camp towards Carruthers Cove, is closed to cars. The northern section beyond High Bluff Overlook is a no-go for RVs or trailers. This road can be a real nail-biter with its twists, turns, and exposed edges. Hit up High Bluff Overlook for a picnic with jaw-dropping views. And history buffs, don't miss the old World War II radar station disguised as a farmhouse and barn! If you're feeling adventurous, hop on the Coastal Trail from the Flint Ridge section for some hiking and backcountry camping. To complete the loop, you’ll head left on Alder Camp Road, which then merges with West Klamath Beach Road. Eventually, you'll rejoin West Klamath Beach Road and be back where you started! Passenger vehicles will be fine on the open section, just remember to leave the RV at home! This is truly one of the most scenic drives in the Redwood National and State Parks system. Get ready to be amazed!
moderateWhere is Fish Lake Hightop?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventurers, listen up! If you're hunting for killer views and a true back-country experience, you NEED to hit up Fish Lake Hightop in Fishlake National Forest. Seriously, this is Sevier County's high point, so expect some serious altitude! Now, fair warning, getting there is part of the adventure. This 3.6-mile stretch isn't paved the whole way, and you'll defintely need a 4x4 with some decent clearance. It can get pretty hairy, and you don't want to get stuck. Plus, it's not exactly a highway, so expect some solitude. The average grade is around 5.16%, so it’s a steady climb, but trust me, the payoff is worth it. You can usually park just below the summit rocks. Just be aware, this is a high-altitude playground, so snow can happen any time of year, and the road is usually a no-go from November to June. Plan accordingly and get ready for some incredible scenery!