
Where is Doherty Slide?
Usa, north-america
175 km
1,904 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising along Oregon Route 140, right near the Oregon-Nevada line, overlooking the vast Warner Valley. This is Doherty Slide, also known as Doherty Rim, and it's a high mountain ridge sitting pretty at 6,246 feet.
This stretch of road, connecting northwestern Nevada to southern Oregon, is 109 miles long, running from US-395 (just north of Lakeview, Oregon) all the way to NV-140 (south of Denio, Nevada). It's paved, but don't let that fool you!
Located about 20 miles east of Adel, you'll see a sign near the summit that's pretty clear: "Take Your Time, Don’t Rush, And You’ll Get There Alive." And they're not kidding. This is a narrow two-lane highway with absolutely no guardrail. That's right – just you and a serious drop-off.
Speaking of steep, get ready for a climb! There's an 8% grade that lasts for three miles, and another sign that warns, "Trucks Use Low Gear". Seriously, the shoulder is basically a vertical drop of a thousand feet! A final, huge yellow sign screams, “This Is Your Final Warning! Turn Back Now If You Have A Heart Condition!" The views are incredible, formed by ancient lava flows, but you'll probably be too busy concentrating to fully enjoy them!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 175 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,904 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
Related Roads in north-america
hardMount Union
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure-seekers, listen up! Let's talk about Mount Union, a real gem tucked away in central Yavapai County, Arizona. We're talking serious elevation here, topping out at 7,975 feet! The road up in Prescott National Forest? Well, it's an experience. Think gravel, rocks, and a bit of a bumpy, tippy ride. This baby was built back in the 1860s, so it's got some history! Winter? Forget about it – usually snowed in. This is a playground for seasoned off-roaders. If unpaved mountain roads aren't your thing, maybe sit this one out. Most cars can make it on a dry day to within a mile of the peak. At the top, you're greeted with a fire tower, communication antenna, and some serious views (so, maybe not for those afraid of heights!). The trail is pretty steep, and if it's wet, expect a muddy challenge. Oh, and the name? A nod to Union supporters back in the Civil War. Fun fact: it's the highest point in the Bradshaw Mountains!
moderateWhy is it called Rim of the World Highway?
🇺🇸 Usa
Cruising the Rim of the World Scenic Byway is like a VIP tour through Southern California's greatest hits! So, why the name? Because you're literally hugging the ridgeline of the San Bernardino Mountains the whole time. Think mountaintops that'll take your breath away, serene lakes reflecting the sky, and forests so lush they look like a movie set. Clocking in at 110 miles, this beauty stretches from just past San Gorgonio Pass, tracing the rim of the San Bernardinos. The entire route is paved, piecing together portions of California Highways 138, 18, and 38. Without stops, you're looking at a two-hour cruise each way. Pro tip: hit the road early on a weekday to dodge the crowds. And keep an eye out for those friendly officers on busy days – they love this route too! Is it worth it? Absolutely! You'll be glued to the views from the cliffs overlooking the San Bernardino, winding through everything from desert landscapes to coastal valleys, all the way up to those high-elevation forests and sparkling lakes. Expect jaw-dropping panoramas around every bend. Just a heads-up, summer smog can sometimes play peek-a-boo with those distant views. As for the drive itself, it's good for any car. There are curves and some steep sections, so take advantage of the pullouts and keep an eye on fellow travelers. Nestled in the San Bernardino National Forest, it’s usually open year-round, but winter can bring occasional closures due to snow. Chains might be your new best friend then. If the white stuff's coming down heavy, expect closures or chain requirements.
moderateWhere is Capitol Reef Scenic Drive?
🇺🇸 Usa
Cruising through Capitol Reef National Park in south-central Utah? You absolutely HAVE to take the Scenic Drive! This little gem starts right off UT-24, near the Visitor Center, and stretches 7.9 miles into the heart of the park. It's paved the whole way, so no need for a special vehicle—even RVs up to 27 feet are welcome! Keep in mind, it's not a loop, so you'll be doing an out-and-back. Rising to a modest 5,977 feet, this road can be a bit temperamental, so watch out for closures due to snow, ice, mud, or flash floods. Give yourself at least 30 minutes for the drive itself, but honestly, you'll want to budget extra time. It's a photographer's dream, with pull-offs galore to capture those incredible views of the sheer sandstone cliffs and wild rock formations. Plus, it's your gateway to must-see spots like Grand Wash and Capitol Gorge. There is an entrance fee per vehicle, but trust me, it's worth it to experience some of Capitol Reef's finest scenery.
hardMonte Encino
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! Ever heard of Monte Encino? It's a real hidden gem in New Mexico's Rio Arriba County, sitting pretty high at 9,971 feet. The road up, FR100A, is an adventure in itself. We're talking gravel and rocky terrain winding through the Santa Fe National Forest. If you're not comfy on unpaved mountain roads, maybe skip this one. That being said, it's generally well-graded, so most cars should make it. But fair warning: it’s steep and probably not the best choice for anyone with a fear of heights. The reward? A fire lookout tower at the summit with killer panoramic views. The tower itself dates back to 1950. Just a heads-up: check the weather before you go! Lightning and lookout towers definitely don't mix. Up top, the firewatcher gets a cozy 7x7 foot cab with a view that's worth the bumpy ride. Trust me, it's an unforgettable experience.