Where is Lizard Head Pass in Colorado?
Usa, north-america
117.64 km
3,127 m
easy
Year-round
Lizard Head Pass in Colorado? Oh, you HAVE to go! This beauty is right on the border of Dolores and San Miguel counties in southwest Colorado, nestled in the Lizard Head Wilderness. They even call it "The Most Beautiful Drive in America," and honestly, they might be right.
Why the name? Just look around! About 10 miles south of Telluride, you'll spot a peak that totally looks like a lizard's head.
The San Juan Scenic Byway (Highway 145) takes you right over the pass. It's all paved, so no worries about needing a special vehicle! This is a smooth ride for everyone.
From the town of Dolores to Placerville, you're cruising for about 73 miles.
This high-altitude pass in the San Juan Mountains is generally open year-round, but keep an eye on the weather in winter – it can close briefly if things get rough.
Don't stress too much about danger. The road is well-maintained, and the grades are gentle (maxing out around 7.8%). That said, Colorado weather is WILD. Be ready for anything, especially in winter. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, so hitting it early is a good call. And remember you're at over 10,000 feet, so altitude sickness is a real thing. Hypothermia can be a risk year-round too, and watch out for early snowstorms in September!
Is it worth it? 100% YES. Plan about 1.5 hours without stops to soak it all in. Mid-July to early August is prime time, but honestly, any time is gorgeous. You'll wind through the San Juan, Uncompahgre, Wilson, and Sneffels Ranges, with waterfalls in spring, wildflowers in summer, golden aspens in fall, or a winter wonderland if you time it right! Expect meadows bursting with wildflowers, spruce and aspen forests, and jaw-dropping views of snow-capped peaks. This is Colorado at its finest.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 117.64 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,127 m
- Difficulty
- easy
Related Roads in north-america
easyWhere is Grapevine Hills Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, adventurers! We're heading to Big Bend National Park in southwestern Texas, practically kissing the Mexican border, to explore Grapevine Hills Road. This ain't your average Sunday drive. You'll find this dirt road, also known as Grapevine Hills 1 (GH-1), leading to the Grapevine Hills trailhead (mile 6.4), your gateway to the awesome Grapevine Hills trailhead. The reward at the end? Absolutely stunning rock formations and some chill campgrounds. Now, listen up! The first stretch is usually okay for most cars if you take it slow and steady, dodging the bumps. But after the campground things get real. We're talking serious high-clearance territory, especially after a downpour. Seriously, leave the minivan and RV at home. You've been warned! This bumpy ride stretches for about 6.4 miles. The elevation undulates quite a bit, with a few steep sections thrown in to keep you on your toes. So, keep your eyes peeled and get ready for an unforgettable, off-the-beaten-path adventure!
easyWhere is the abandoned Pennsylvania Turnpike?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up for a seriously cool and slightly spooky adventure! Just off the modern Pennsylvania Turnpike, near Breezewood, lies a 13-mile stretch of abandoned highway, a relic from the 1940s. Imagine driving (or biking, as it's now a trail!) through a piece of history swallowed by nature. This isn't your average scenic route, folks. Think crumbling pavement, graffiti art, and three seriously long, echoing tunnels bored through the Appalachian Mountains. Originally built to ease congestion, this section was bypassed back in '68 and left to the elements. The Nature Conservancy now owns it, so cars are a no-go. But cyclists and hikers can explore this surreal landscape – just bring lights and helmets, those tunnels get dark! You might even recognize it – parts of the post-apocalyptic film "The Road" were filmed here. It’s a wild ride, mixing eerie vibes with a unique sense of discovery!
hardHow long is Trail Creek Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Nestled on the border of Blaine and Custer counties in Idaho, Trail Creek Road is a mountain drive you won't soon forget. Clocking in at just over 40 miles, this road (also known as 408) winds its way from Ketchum to Highway 93, near the tiny town of Chilly. The pavement doesn’t last long, quickly giving way to gravel. Be prepared for a good chunk of the road to be dirt and rocks that might just be plotting to eat your tires! The views are stunning, but keep an eye out – there's a crazy steep drop-off and sections where it's practically a one-lane gravel track. You don’t need a 4x4, but be ready for some rocks and potholes. This drive is a legit challenge. Seriously, not for newbie mountain drivers – one wrong move and you’re in trouble. That's why you won't see big rigs or trailers allowed. Expect steep climbs, and there's a good chance you'll learn how to change a flat. Seriously, check that spare tire (full-size, not a donut!) before you go, and make sure it’s in tip-top shape. Rockslides and washouts aren't uncommon. Keep your eyes glued to the road, even though the view is incredible. Give yourself 1-2 hours to conquer this road without stops, though you'll probably want to pad that time to soak in the scenery. It all depends on the road conditions and how often you pull over to take photos. Topping out at over 7,900 feet above sea level at Trail Creek Summit, this gravel road is impassable in winter. It's closed when the snow piles up, opening again when the weather warms up. Winter often brings damage from avalanches of dirt and rock.
hardWhere is the Lost Coast Scenic Drive?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: the Lost Coast Scenic Drive, aka Mattole Road. Tucked away in Humboldt County, California, this 65-mile stretch is the real deal when it comes to raw, untamed beauty. We're talking hidden beaches, towering redwoods, and the highest coastal mountains in the continental US. Seriously epic! The road itself? Mostly paved, but don't expect a smooth ride the whole way. There are a few short unpaved sections to keep things interesting. Plus, it climbs to a max elevation of 2,434 feet, so expect some steep stretches. Word to the wise: skip it if it's raining or dark. Cell service is basically nonexistent, and you'll definitely encounter potholes and maybe even some partially washed-out areas. Oh, and this is earthquake country, so keep an eye out for tsunami warnings. The road is mostly two lanes, but they can be super narrow with lots of curves and switchbacks. But trust me, it's all worth it for those incredible ocean views! Give yourself about two hours to soak it all in. You're cruising along the longest undeveloped shoreline in California, according to National Geographic. It’s been named one of the most scenic drives in the whole USA. This is a drive you won't forget!