Where is South Baldy?
Usa, north-america
20.59 km
3,288 m
hard
Year-round
Okay, buckle up for a wild ride to South Baldy in central New Mexico's Cibola National Forest! This isn't your Sunday drive. We're talking about one of the highest roads in the state, topping out at a lung-busting 10,789 feet above sea level.
The view from the top, where you'll find the Langmuir Laboratory and Magdalena Ridge Observatory, is totally worth it – seriously breathtaking. But getting there? That's another story.
The summit road clocks in at almost 13 miles of rocky, single-lane, near-vertical, slope-hugging fun. It's STEEP in places, so don't expect to fly up those ramps. While a rugged sedan *might* make it with some careful driving, a four-wheel drive is your best bet, even in summer. Oh, and did I mention that this road is typically impassable in winter? Yeah, that's a no-go. But hey, if you're up for an adventure with a view, South Baldy is calling your name! Just remember to pack your nerve.
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 20.59 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,288 m
- Difficulty
- hard
Related Roads in north-america
moderateIs the road to Elk Summit in Idaho unpaved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you're heading to Elk Summit in Idaho County, Idaho? Prepare for an off-the-grid adventure! This peak sits at a cool 6,394 feet above sea level in the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, just northwest of Elk City. Forget smooth pavement, the road to the summit (FS-471) is all dirt. And let's be real, it's not exactly kept in tip-top shape. You'll definitely want a vehicle with some ground clearance to handle the bumps. Why make the trek? Well, besides bragging rights, the summit's been home to a lookout tower since way back in 1911. They even plopped a 100-foot tower up there in 1934, and it's still sometimes used! The road itself is about 9.3 miles from Elk City, climbing a hefty 2,555 feet along the way. That’s an average grade of 5.2%, so expect a steady climb with some incredible views. Get ready for an unforgettable, rugged Idaho experience!
moderateA two mile road to the top of Capulin Volcano in New Mexico
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip time! Let's head to northeastern New Mexico and check out Capulin Volcano, chilling in the High Plains. This isn't just any volcano – it's an extinct cinder cone and super accessible. Plus, it's part of the massive Raton-Clayton Volcanic Field, which last blew its top over 60,000 years ago! The road to the top, Capulin Volcano Road, is a smooth 2.6-mile paved ribbon that winds its way up. It was built way back in 1925 and it's a pretty wild ride! Be warned: this climb is STEEP. We're talking a maximum gradient of 9% in spots! You start at around 7,188 feet above sea level and end up at 7,890 feet, gaining about 700 feet in just over two and a half miles. That's an average gradient of 5.11%, so hold on tight. Before you go, double-check for any vehicle restrictions or closures – thunderstorms can shut things down. Also, keep in mind that long RVs, buses, and trailers (over 26 feet) aren't allowed. And the hours change depending on the season, usually 8:00/8:30 am to 4:00/5:00 pm. Once you're in the Capulin Volcano National Monument, get ready for a scenic drive with tight turns and, yep, sheer drop-offs. But it’s worth it! You'll spiral around the volcano to a parking lot right at the rim. Biking and walking are allowed, but only when the road's closed to cars after hours. Get ready for some killer views!
moderateWhere is Walker Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up for Walker Pass! This high mountain pass sits pretty at 5,259 feet in Kern County, California. You'll find it in the northeastern part of the county, connecting the San Joaquin Valley to the Mojave Desert. It’s named after Joseph R. Walker, a mountain man who blazed a trail through here back in the day. This route became super important during the Gold Rush. Now, about the drive: it's along California State Route 178, and it's paved the whole way. This two-lane road winds and twists for about 19.4 miles between Canebrake and Freeman Village. Because it's high up in the southern Sierra Nevada, you get some killer views. Most of the year, it's open, but winter weather can sometimes close it temporarily. Keep an eye out for rockfalls too - those are a year-round hazard!
hardWhere is Wilkerson Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, road trip lovers, buckle up for Wilkerson Pass! You'll find this scenic beauty perched high up in the heart of Colorado. We're talking serious elevation here, so get ready for those incredible panoramic views. This pass cuts right through the central part of the state. Plus, at the summit, there's a visitor center that opens in the summer. Fun fact: it’s named after a local Civil War vet! You'll be cruising along U.S. Route 24, a completely paved road stretching miles. Expect a smooth ride from the west or east, with gentle slopes that won't have your engine screaming, even with an RV. The best part? You can usually hit this road year-round! Sure, snow might cause a brief closure now and then during winter, but otherwise, it's good to go. Get your camera ready!