Where is Hardscrabble Pass?
Usa, north-america
42.16 km
2,773 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through the heart of Colorado, smack-dab in the San Isabel National Forest. You're on Highway 96, ready to tackle Hardscrabble Pass. This baby climbs up to 9,097 feet!
Starting near Westcliffe, this paved road stretches for about 26 miles as you head west-northeast towards Wetmore. And get this – if you're feeling extra adventurous, there's a short gravel detour north of the pass that takes you even higher, up to 9,557 feet!
Now, a heads up: this road isn't for the faint of heart. It's got some seriously steep sections, hitting a 9% grade in places, plus three or four large sweeping switchbacks, so pay attention, especially on the downhill. Some bikers have even reported accidents there. But the views? Absolutely incredible!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 42.16 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,773 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
extremeWhere is Hurricane Basin?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, thrill-seekers, listen up! Hurricane Basin in Hinsdale County, Colorado is calling your name. We're talking about a wild ride up to 12,388 feet above sea level! You'll find this gem nestled east of Ouray, not far from the famous Million Dollar Highway. But heads up, this isn't your average Sunday drive. County Road 21, the 10.5-mile unpaved path to the top, is seriously rocky and steep – some sections will test your nerves. Expect to crawl at a serious grade. A high-clearance 4x4 isn't just recommended; it's essential! The road ends at 12,657 feet, where you'll be rewarded with the Golconda Boarding House and Compressor House, relics of an old gold, silver, lead, zinc, and copper mine. These aren't your typical tourist traps, and some have even been rebuilt! Keep in mind, this route is usually snowed in from late October until late June or early July, so plan accordingly. But trust me, if you're up for the challenge, the extraordinary views from the top make it all worthwhile. Hurricane Basin is a must-do for anyone who loves a good off-road adventure and breathtaking scenery.
hardWhy Is It Called Calispell Peak?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure junkies, let's talk Calispell Peak in Washington state! This bad boy tops out at 6,856 feet, making it one of the highest points you can drive to in the state. The peak gets its name from the Kalispel Indians who used to call this region home. So, what's up there? Besides bragging rights, the summit is home to a bunch of communication towers. Back in the day, it was a fire lookout spot, and now it’s prime real estate for catching all the signals. You'll be rewarded with insane 360-degree views above the treeline in an alpine meadow. Word has it there's even an old beryllium mine up there! Now, for the nitty-gritty: the road, officially NF-629 (aka Calispell Peak Road), is unpaved and seriously rugged. We're talking rocks, ruts, the whole shebang. It’s about 8.8 miles from Tacoma Creek Road (Highway 2389) to the top, with a hefty 4,200 feet of climbing. Expect some steep sections, with gradients hitting up to 12.5%! Definitely bring your A-game (and a high-clearance 4x4) for this one. This is NOT a drive for your grandma’s sedan. And be warned: this road is usually snowed in from October to June, so plan your trip accordingly. If you're hitting it during the snowy months, strap on your snowshoes or skis. Oh, and did I mention it can get pretty windy up there? Be prepared for anything! If it is wet and muddy, the road might also be impassable.
hardHow long is the Needles Highway?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: You're cruising through the Black Hills of South Dakota, smack-dab in Custer State Park. You're on Needles Highway (aka South Dakota Highway 87), and "spectacular" doesn't even begin to cover it. This isn't just a drive; it's an experience. Clocking in at just over 14 miles, this paved beauty, part of the Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway, is a wild ride of twists and turns. Seriously, forget about hitting third gear – you'll be too busy navigating hairpin turns and marveling at the scenery. What's the highlight? The three narrow tunnels! The most famous one is barely over 8 feet wide and 12 feet tall. It’s tight, but totally photo-worthy! Make sure you know your vehicle's dimensions before you go for it. (RVs and big trailers might want to sit this one out.) Other tunnels along the way are Hood Tunnel and Iron Creek Tunnel. When to go? Aim for spring through fall. Winter’s a no-go due to snow. This road isn't just about the drive itself; it's about the views! Think granite spires that look like they're piercing the sky, lush pine and spruce forests, meadows bursting with birch and aspen, and rugged granite mountains. You'll want to make time to snap a few photos. Plus, it's super convenient – only 30 miles from Rapid City and a quick 35-minute jaunt from Mount Rushmore. Why "Needles Highway"? The name comes from those crazy cool needle-like granite formations. Former South Dakota Governor Peter Norbeck literally walked and rode horseback to plan this road before it was built in 1922! Keep in mind, there's an entrance fee for Custer State Park, so factor that in. As for how long the drive takes, plan for about 45 to 60 minutes – but honestly, take your time! Stop at Sylvan Lake and the Needle’s Eye, and keep an eye out for mountain goats, deer, and chipmunks! Trust me, if you're anywhere near the Black Hills, Needles Highway needs to be on your list. Especially in the fall! Just remember to breathe (through those tunnels!), and enjoy the ride.
hardHow to Get by Car to La Lobera in Baja California
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, so you’re cruising down the Transpeninsular Highway (that’s Mexican Federal Highway 1, by the way) and you hit Km 47.5. Time for a detour! You're about to discover La Lobera, a crazy-cool sea crater on Baja California’s wild west coast. Forget smooth asphalt, though – the next 5.1 km (or about 3.16 miles) is all unpaved, dusty goodness. Honestly, most 2-wheel drives can handle it when it's dry. But watch out after a rain shower; those potholes get gnarly! As you bump along, the scenery is epic. You'll see those dramatic Pacific waves crashing into the cliffs. The whole area is raw, rugged desert, dotted with cool coastal plants. Keep your eyes peeled for “juancitos” (little squirrels!) and ospreys. Trust me, arriving at La Lobera itself is worth every single bump. It's a massive hole revealing an underground beach crammed with sea lions! It’s seriously an unforgettable sight.