Why is it called Conway Summit?
Usa, north-america
31.38 km
2,482 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, road trip lovers, let's talk Conway Summit in California's Mono County! This isn't just any drive; it's a high-altitude adventure reaching 8,143 feet! Named after a local legend, John Andrew Conway, this fully paved stretch of U.S. Highway 395 is the highest point on the road.
Prepare for a feast for the eyes! The views of Mono Lake and the Sierra Nevada are seriously stunning. The drive itself is about 19.5 miles long, cruising north to south from Willow Springs to the town of Lee Vining, right on Mono Lake's edge.
Heads up, though: being in the Eastern Sierras, Conway Summit is usually open year-round, but Mother Nature sometimes throws a curveball with temporary closures in winter. Snow can get intense!
Want to go even higher? Just east of the pass, there's a little gravel road that climbs to 8,415 feet where the radio towers are. Word of warning: it's steep (like, 8% steep!), and you'll definitely want a 4x4 to handle it. Get ready for an epic adventure!
Where is it?
Why is it called Conway Summit? is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 38.0877, -119.1822
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 31.38 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,482 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 38.0877, -119.1822
Related Roads in north-america
moderateWhere is Mount Wilson?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you're heading to Mount Wilson, just northeast of L.A. near Pasadena? This peak sits pretty high at 5,666 feet! The road up, Mount Wilson Red Box Road, starts from Angeles Crest Highway and it’s about 4.7 miles to the top. Don't let the short distance fool you, though – it’s a twisty, narrow, and pretty steep climb, gaining over 1,000 feet in elevation. Word to the wise: This is a mountain road, so winter can be brutal. Think potential rock slides, snow, and thick fog. But if you hit it on a good day? The views are insane! The road itself is a blast to drive, with endless curves and climbs. And on a clear day? You might even spot Santa Catalina Island way out on the horizon. Up top, you'll find the Mount Wilson Observatory. It's been a prime spot for astronomers for years. The place is open to visitors most of the year, and these days, you'll also find the CHARA Array, which is used for some serious star research. Definitely worth the trip if you're into views and a little stargazing history!
moderateThe Wild Road to Black Mountain in California
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, let's talk Black Mountain! Perched high up in the Diamond Mountains of northeastern California, this peak hits an elevation of 7,165ft. The route to the top? Forest Road 26N80, a glorious, completely unpaved path that's typically open from Memorial Day to October, Mother Nature permitting. Heads up: you'll want a high-clearance vehicle for this one. Starting near Milford, it's a 9.5-mile climb to the summit. Once you get there, you're rewarded with a fire lookout tower built back in '35, a few radio towers, and views for days! Seriously, get ready for some epic snapshots of Honey Lake to the north and Last Chance Creek sprawling out to the south. Trust me, the views are worth the bumpy ride!
hardRoad trip guide: Conquering Peerless Mountain in CO
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up for a wild ride up Peerless Mountain! This beast sits right on the Park and Lake county line in Colorado, topping out at a staggering 13,195 feet. It's one of Colorado's highest roads, and trust me, you'll feel it! The road, known as County Road 18 (or 4 Mile Creek Road), is a completely unpaved, bumpy adventure. Think historic mining sites galore – seriously cool remnants of Colorado's past. Just be warned, there's often a massive snowdrift blocking the main road until late summer! Get ready for some serious steepness – we're talking gradients up to 16%! The climb starts near Fairplay and stretches for about 13 miles, gaining over 3,300 feet in elevation. It averages around a 5% grade, but those ramps are killer! The trail is narrow with limited passing spots, so heads up! Keep an eye on the sky, thunderstorms can roll in fast. While you're near the summit, check out the remains of those old mining operations! This is doable in many stock SUVs with 4x4 and decent clearance, but be prepared for rocky terrain that will test your vehicle. This trail is a total package deal: challenging rocks, jaw-dropping scenery, a dose of Colorado history, and awesome hiking and fishing opportunities. Get ready for an epic adventure!
moderateND-46 W is the longest straight road in the US and Canada
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, road trip lovers! Ever dreamed of driving forever without turning the wheel? Head to North Dakota and check out ND-46 W. Seriously, this paved beauty is legendary for its straightness. Starting near Fargo and cutting through southeastern North Dakota, this baby goes on for 194 kilometers (that's 121 miles!) of pure, unadulterated straight shot. We're talking east-west from Oxbow to Streeter with zero curves, zero bends, and practically zero hills. Some say it's the longest straight road in the US and Canada. Paved way back in '64, you can cruise this thing for over two hours without even thinking about steering. Just endless horizon and big sky views – perfect for clearing your head and letting your thoughts wander! Get ready for a truly unique driving experience.