Where is Tennessee Pass in Colorado?
Usa, north-america
37.81 km
3,183 m
easy
Year-round
Okay, so picture this: you're cruising along U.S. Route 24, aka the Top of the Rockies National Scenic Byway, and you start climbing towards Tennessee Pass. This epic pass straddles the border between Lake and Eagle counties in central Colorado, nestled within the Pike and San Isabel National Forests.
You'll wind your way up to a whopping 10,442 feet (3,183m) above sea level. Don't worry, the road is paved the whole way, and the gradients aren't too crazy – easy peasy for most cars. This stretch of road covers about 23.5 miles (37.81km) heading south to north from Leadville to the ghost town of Gilman.
Keep in mind, being high in the Rockies means winter can throw a curveball, and the road might temporarily close during massive storms. But usually, it's open year-round, letting you soak in those incredible views! At the top, you'll find a big parking lot and a memorial to the 10th Mountain Division. A perfect spot to stretch your legs and snap some photos!
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 37.81 km
- Max Elevation
- 3,183 m
- Difficulty
- easy
Related Roads in north-america
extremeCinnamon Pass is a 4x4 road in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado
🇺🇸 Usa
Alright, adventure seekers, buckle up for Cinnamon Pass! Nestled high in the San Juan Mountains of Colorado, straddling the Hinsdale and San Juan county line, this beauty tops out at a breathtaking 12,640 feet. We're talking serious altitude here, folks! This unpaved road, known as Cinnamon Pass Road, is a 19.5-mile stretch of pure, off-road joy, part of the legendary Alpine Loop. Picture this: you, your trusty 4WD, high-clearance vehicle, and some of the most stunning scenery Colorado has to offer. The road itself? It's moderately challenging, with steep, rocky sections that get extra dicey when wet. Watch out for those narrow shelf roads—passing other vehicles can be a bit of a squeeze! The western ascent is particularly rugged, while the eastern side is a bit more forgiving, but still requires that off-road capability. Open usually from late May to October (weather permitting, of course!), Cinnamon Pass is not for the faint of heart, especially if you're not a fan of drop-offs. But trust me, the views from the top, easily accessed thanks to a convenient parking lot, are SO worth it. Just be prepared for some company on this popular trail, especially during the summer months! This route, built way back in the late 1800s during the Colorado Gold Rush, promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of the San Juan National Forest.
hardHow long is Black Gap Road in Big Bend?
🇺🇸 Usa
Hey thrill-seekers, wanna tackle a seriously wild ride in Big Bend National Park, Texas? Black Gap Road is calling your name! This isn't your average Sunday drive – we're talking 10.1 miles of raw, unadulterated 4x4 adventure, deep in Brewster County near the Mexican border. Get ready for a workout! This sandy, rocky trail throws frequent washouts your way, plus some seriously steep climbs—we're talking up to a 13% gradient in spots! You'll need a high-clearance 4x4, no question. This road is NOT maintained, so expect loose gravel, sharp rocks, and deep ruts. One tricky spot, nicknamed "The Step" or "Pinch Canyon," might even have you stacking rocks for extra clearance. But hold up – the views! Nestled in remote Big Bend, you'll be rewarded with stunning vistas of the Chisos Mountains and the vast Chihuahuan Desert. The scenery alone makes it worthwhile. This route is open year-round, but summer heat can be brutal – bring TONS of extra water. Winter is a dream, but the sun can still pack a punch. And pro tip: always check in with a park ranger for the latest road conditions before you head out. This is a remote trail so make sure your vehicle is prepped and you have plenty of experience. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
hardMount Washington Auto Road
🇺🇸 United States
# Mount Washington Auto Road: A Classic New England Adventure Ready for one of America's most iconic drives? The Mount Washington Auto Road is a wild 12-kilometer ride up New Hampshire's Presidential Range to the 1,917-meter summit—and trust me, it's an unforgettable experience. This gem has been drawing adventurers since 1861, when it first opened as a carriage road. That makes it one of the oldest tourist attractions in the US, and for good reason. The road doesn't mess around: you're looking at an average grade of 12% with some sections hitting a brutal 22%. By the time you reach the top, you'll have climbed over 1,400 meters of pure elevation gain. Here's where it gets wild: Mount Washington holds the world record for the highest wind speed ever directly measured on Earth—a bonkers 372 km/h recorded way back in April 1934. Even on supposedly "nice" summer days, you'll feel why this mountain demands respect. The real drama kicks in above the 1,200-meter mark, where you break through the treeline into the alpine zone. Conditions up here can flip in minutes—literally. But when the weather cooperates? The summit views are absolutely spectacular, stretching across four states, Quebec, and all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. This drive is equal parts adrenaline rush and scenic masterpiece.
easyWhen was Mexico-Tuxpan Highway Built?
🇲🇽 Mexico
Okay, so the Autopista Mexico-Tuxpan (Mexico 132D) is seriously impressive! It took, like, forever to build (think 30+ years!), mostly because the Sierra Madre Oriental mountains are no joke, and there were some... hiccups along the way. But, hey, it's finally here, connecting Mexico City to Tuxpan, a port on the Gulf. Why is it such a big deal? Well, picture this: 12 tunnels and 60 bridges carved right through the mountains. The San Marcos Bridge is insanely high, offering jaw-dropping views of the Sierra Madre range and crazy-beautiful canyons. You'll cruise through everything from lush rainforests to pine-covered hills and even desert valleys – the scenery is wild! And get this, it practically takes you past Teotihuacán! So, if you're heading to or from Mexico City, this highway is the way to go. Trust me, it's a road trip you won't forget!