
Where is Steptoe Butte?
Usa, north-america
6.59 km
1,101 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through Washington State, heading towards this lone peak called Steptoe Butte, rising dramatically from the Palouse Hills. You'll find it in Whitman County, right on the southeastern edge of the state. This place used to be known as Pyramid Peak, but now it's named after Colonel Edward Steptoe.
The road up is fully paved, though let's just say it's seen better days. It's narrow and winding, with no guardrails, so keep your eyes on the road. The climb starts on A635 Road (on Greenfield) and it's about 4.1 miles (6.59km) to the top, gaining 343 meters in elevation. That's an average gradient of 5.20%, so be prepared for a bit of a steep climb!
But trust me, the views are SO worth it. Once you reach the summit parking area, you're treated to a 360-degree panorama of the rolling Palouse landscape. It's stunning! Just remember, the road's open year-round for day use, but winter driving can be tricky with snow and ice, so be extra careful. Oh, and the summit's got some communication towers, in case you're wondering what those are. Don't forget your camera!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 6.59 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,101 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
Related Roads in north-america
moderateThe spectacular Captain William Moore Bridge in Alaska
🇺🇸 Usa
Hey adventurers! Let's talk about the Captain William Moore Bridge, a true Alaskan icon just outside Skagway in Southeast Alaska. This isn't just any bridge; it's a gateway to the Yukon and the Klondike, steeped in Gold Rush history! The original bridge, built in '76, spanned a 110-foot drop over Moore Creek Gorge. But here's the kicker: it crosses an active earthquake fault. So, engineers got super clever. They anchored it on one side only, letting the other end wiggle freely during seismic activity. Pretty cool, right? The updated version from 2017 stretches 300 feet, with a wild, asymmetrical cable design. It's built tough to handle heavy traffic, but it keeps that smart, flexible design. Now, the old bridge? It's been retired, but it's not gone! You can stroll across it and soak in the engineering marvel. And since 2019, the Klondike Highway has a new approach, including a buried bridge. You've GOT to see this place to appreciate the sheer ingenuity and stunning scenery.
hardComanche Peak
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, thrill-seekers, listen up! Comanche Peak in Colfax County, New Mexico, is calling your name if you're up for a serious off-road adventure. Nestled high in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, this bad boy tops out at a whopping 10,744 feet! This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks. We're talking seriously rough terrain – tippy, bumpy, and definitely not for the faint of heart. Forget about even *thinking* about it in winter; you'll likely be snowed out well into July. Experienced off-roaders, this one's for you. Expect a narrow trail where passing is a puzzle and some seriously steep sections. A high-clearance vehicle isn't just recommended, it's essential. But hey, with the challenge comes incredible scenery. Just imagine those views from the top! Comanche Peak promises an unforgettable ride, if you're prepared for the wild.
hardWhere is Targhee Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Wanna straddle two states at once? Then cruise up Targhee Pass! This super scenic spot sits right on the Idaho-Montana border, clocking in at 7,089 feet above sea level. You'll find it nestled on the Continental Divide, linking southeastern Idaho with southwestern Montana. It's named after a Bannack Indian chief, which is pretty cool. The whole route is paved—we're talking U.S. Highway 20, also known as Targhee Pass Highway. Keep an eye out for those little white markers, though. They're there to remind you to drive carefully. The drive stretches for 28 miles, connecting West Yellowstone, Montana, to Island Park, Idaho. Most of it is nice and flat, but be ready for some ramps with up to an 8% grade. Good news for winter adventurers: Targhee Pass stays open! They plow and sand it regularly. Only a major blizzard could shut it down. Tucked away in the Caribou–Targhee National Forest, it'll take you about 30 minutes to drive, but trust me, you'll want to stop. This area is a major migration route for elk, deer, moose, and bears. Plus, it's the quickest way to Yellowstone Park from southern Idaho!
hardIs the road to Mount Sheridan in Colorado unpaved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, thrill-seekers, let's talk about County Road 18, also known as 4 Mile Creek Road, leading up to Mount Sheridan in central Colorado. This isn't your Sunday drive! It's a 12.36-mile (19.9 km) climb into the sky, topping out at a breathtaking 13,192 feet (4,021 m) above sea level. The road is unpaved and it's got some serious grades – up to 13% in sections! You'll definitely feel it. Plus, being so high up, be prepared for strong winds and super fast weather changes. But the views? Oh, the views are SO worth it. Along the way, you'll spot cool remnants of Colorado's mining past. And near the top, you can explore the remains of the old Smith Mountain Mine. Once you reach the summit, get ready for jaw-dropping, panoramic vistas of South Park to the east and the Sawatch Range to the west. This area is dripping in gold, silver, and zinc mining history. A must see!