Where is Galena Summit?
Usa, north-america
125 km
2,660 m
moderate
Year-round
Cruising through Idaho and looking for a memorable drive? Then point your wheels toward Galena Summit! This high-altitude pass clocks in at a cool 8,727 feet (2,660m) and sits pretty in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area.
You'll find this gem in the northwest corner of Blaine County. The road, State Highway 75 (aka the Sawtooth Scenic Byway), is completely paved, but don't let that fool you – it's a pretty steep climb in sections with some twisty turns.
This north-south route stretches for 78 miles (125km) between Stanley and Bellevue, offering incredible panoramic mountain views along the way. It's considered one of Idaho's most iconic drives.
While usually open year-round, winter can throw a wrench in the works with snow and potential closures. So be sure to check conditions before you go. This pass definitely lives up to its location high in the Boulder Mountains!
Make sure to stop at the Bethine and Frank Church Overlook, just west of the summit. The views from here, especially near sunrise or sunset, are simply stunning. Keep an eye out for wildlife, too – you never know what you might see!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 125 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,660 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
hardWhere is Lytle Creek Road in California?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, road trippers, because Lytle Creek Road in sunny Southern California is calling your name! Found nestled in the San Gabriel Mountains, inside the San Bernardino National Forest, this little gem is a feast for the eyes. Think stunning views! This 21-mile stretch of road is your gateway between the Ontario Freeway and Lone Pine Canyon Road. Now, fair warning, Mother Nature can be a bit of a diva here, and storms can sometimes cause a bit of a ruckus. The road is paved up until the Lytle Creek Firing Range, then it gets a little wild, turning into a gravel trail that practically begs for a 4WD beast. Get ready for some serious hairpin action, folks! This road is all about the twists and turns as it climbs to a whopping 6,299 feet near Gobblers Knob. Just be mindful: it can get pretty narrow in spots, so keep your eyes peeled.
hardA paved road to Targhee Pass in the Henrys Lake Mountains
🇺🇸 Usa
Cruising along the Targhee Pass Highway (that's U.S. Highway 20 to you map lovers!) is an experience, folks. Straddling the Idaho-Montana border at a cool 7,089 feet, this pass runs right along the Continental Divide. Named after a Bannack Indian chief, it's steeped in history and natural beauty. The whole 28-mile stretch, linking West Yellowstone, Montana, with Island Park, Idaho, is paved, so no need for a Jeep unless you want one! Most of the road is pretty mellow, but keep an eye out for a few ramps that hit an 8% grade to keep things interesting. Oh, and speaking of eyes, scan the roadside for small, white markers—somber reminders. Nestled in the Henrys Lake Mountains, within the Caribou–Targhee National Forest, the scenery is stunning. This pass is open year-round, even in winter, with regular plowing and sanding. Only a full-blown blizzard could shut this route down. Factor in about 30 minutes to drive it straight through, but let's be real, you'll want to stop! This area's a major wildlife corridor – elk, deer, moose, and even bears love to roam here. Plus, it's the quickest way to get to Yellowstone Park from southern Idaho. So, take your time, enjoy the views, and keep those cameras ready!
hardWhere is Napoleon Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Napoleon Pass? Oh, you *need* to add this to your Colorado bucket list! This beast of a pass climbs to a whopping 12,034 feet in the heart of Gunnison County, smack-dab in the Gunnison National Forest. Forget pavement – we're talking serious off-road adventure on FR 953, also known as Napoleon Pass Road. You *absolutely* need a 4x4; this isn't a Sunday drive! You'll be splashing through multiple creek crossings as you follow Middle Willow Creek. Prepare for mud, gorgeous scenery, and an unforgettable ride along the west face of the Continental Divide! The whole shebang stretches for about 12.4 miles, winding its way between the quirky little towns of Tincup and Pitkin. Originally, it was a vital route for hauling ore back in the day. Fair warning: this one's a summer-only kinda deal. The Sawatch Range throws down some serious weather, so accessibility is limited and closures can happen out of the blue. But trust me, if you get the chance, the views are worth it!
hardWhat are the most scenic backcountry roads in Joshua Tree?
🇺🇸 Usa
Located at the eastern end of Southern California, in the USA, the Joshua Tree National Park is immense, nearly 800,000 acres, and infinitely variable. Two desert systems, the Mojave and the Colorado, divide the park into two arid ecosystems. A fascinating variety of plants and animals make their homes in a land with strong winds and occasional torrents of rain. For your own safety and for the protection of the natural features of the park please stay on established roads. What are the most scenic backcountry roads in Joshua Tree? is a challenging, unpaved trail located in Joshua Tree National Park . It spans 24.3 km (15.1 miles) and includes steep sections with an 11% gradient. The trail requires a due to obstacles like sandy spots and deep ruts. It offers scenic views and is open year-round, but can change road conditions. Driving without stops takes about Black Eagle Mine Road Black Eagle Mine Road unpaved route through a historic mining district in Joshua Tree National Park . The road gradually becomes rougher and more challenging, requiring a vehicle with good clearance. It passes abandoned mines, including Barry Storm's Jade Mine Black Eagle Gold Mine . The road is blocked near the end, and the area is remote, with no cell reception. is a scenic, unpaved drive through Joshua Tree National Park , the surrounding mountains, and the . The road is suitable for high-clearance vehicles , especially after rain or snow. The drive takes you through Covington Crest Trailhead Joshua Tree National Park , offering a fascinating journey through geological formations shaped by vehicle is recommended beyond the first few miles. The road features 16 interpretive stops, making it a great drive for learning about the park’s geological history. It takes about to complete the loop. 41.68 km (25.9 miles) Joshua Tree National Park , passing through abandoned mines. It’s a challenging drive with sharp rocks and deep sand, requiring a vehicle. The road is remote, with no cell reception, and can take to drive. The best time to visit is from , as summer heat makes it less suitable. Pinkham Canyon-Thermal Canyon Road Pinkham Canyon-Thermal Canyon Road unpaved, scenic route in Joshua Tree National Park . It’s a challenging road through soft sand and rocky terrain, requiring a vehicle. The road begins at the Cottonwood Visitor Center . Drivers should be prepared for remote areas and difficult conditions. Driving the gnarly Nellie Creek Road in Colorado Beef Pasture Gap is One of the Highest Paved Roads in Texas Embark on a journey like never before! Navigate through our to discover the most spectacular roads of the world Drive Us to Your Road! With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.