
Why is it called Sherman Pass?
Usa, north-america
59 km
1,684 m
easy
Year-round
Okay, road trip fans, listen up! Sherman Pass in Washington is calling your name. This isn't just any drive; it's a journey to 5,524 feet above sea level in the heart of Ferry County. And get this: it's the highest pass in Washington that's kept open all year round!
Nestled in the northeastern part of the state, a world away from the hustle and bustle, most of this gorgeous drive winds through the Colville National Forest. You're basically surrounded by epic scenery with hardly any other cars around. Plus, you're cruising along a historic route once used by Native Americans heading to the Columbia River for fishing! Later, wagons came rumbling through, and the whole thing was named after Civil War General William T. Sherman, who rolled through back in 1883.
The road? Paved, baby! State Route 20, also known as the Sherman Pass Scenic Byway, is smooth sailing all the way to the top. Sure, it's steep in sections, but the views are SO worth it. Seriously, they don't call it "The Most Beautiful Mountain Highway" in Washington for nothing!
The whole shebang is just under 37 miles long, stretching from near Republic on WA-21 all the way east to Kettle Falls on US-395.
My advice? Hit this road between late spring and early fall for the ultimate escape. Trust me, it's the perfect way to ditch civilization and reconnect with nature (and some seriously stunning vistas).
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 59 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,684 m
- Difficulty
- easy
Related Roads in north-america
extremeWhy is Lombard Street famous?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: you're in San Francisco, California, and you absolutely HAVE to check out Lombard Street! Nestled in Russian Hill, specifically the block between Hyde and Leavenworth, awaits the "most crooked street in the world!" This isn't your average drive. We're talking eight crazy hairpin turns packed into just one block. Seriously, it's a slow crawl – think 5 mph max – but totally worth it for the experience (and the photos!). Why so twisty? Back in 1922, they realized the natural 27% grade was way too steep for cars, so they zig-zagged it into what we see today. Safety first, but make it fun! As you wind down this one-way street (downhill only!), you'll be surrounded by stunning Victorian mansions, bursting flower boxes, and incredible city views. It's picturesque AF. Word to the wise: expect some bumper-to-bumper action, especially during the summer. But hey, the anticipation just adds to the thrill. Lombard Street is so famous it’s even been featured in movies like ‘Vertigo’ and TV shows like ‘The Simpsons’ and ‘Monk’. Whether you’re behind the wheel or just watching from below, Lombard Street is guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
hardWhere is Molas Pass?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure seekers, listen up! You absolutely HAVE to experience Molas Pass in Colorado. We're talking 10,918 feet above sea level, nestled right in the San Juan Mountains, just south of the charming town of Silverton. Picture this: You're cruising along U.S. Highway 550 (aka the Million Dollar Highway!), and the views? OMG. People call this area the American Alps for a reason! There's a sweet little parking lot at the summit where you can soak it all in. Now, the road's paved the whole way, BUT... be warned! This baby's steep. We're talking a 7% gradient in spots. While it's not switchback city, it definitely keeps you on your toes. And, pro-tip, this is Colorado, so snow is a real possibility, especially starting in October. The road can close, and chains might be mandatory. But hey, a little adventure never hurt anyone, right? Just imagine those snow-dusted peaks! Trust me, Molas Pass is an unforgettable drive.
moderateIs the road to Rainy Pass paved?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, road trippers! Rainy Pass is calling your name! Perched high in Washington's North Cascades, right on the Chelan-Okanogan county line, this baby tops out at a cool 4,875 feet. The whole shebang is paved, so no need for the monster truck – just cruise along State Route 20, aka the North Cascades Highway. FYI, this is the northernmost way to cut across the Cascade Mountains in Washington. We're talking a solid 65 miles (104km) of pure driving bliss, from Diablo all the way to Winthrop. Picture this: stunning mountain scenery as you wind your way through the North Cascades National Park. Now, a heads up: Old Man Winter throws a serious tantrum up here. We're talking avalanche central. Seriously, this stretch is known for having a ton of avalanche paths. Usually, the highway shuts down sometime between late November and early December, and doesn't reopen until sometime between April and early May, between Ross Dam Trailhead and Silver Star Creek. So, plan your trip accordingly!
easyWhen did Route 66 start?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: Route 66, the "Mother Road," stretching over 2,000 miles of pure Americana from the Windy City all the way to sunny Santa Monica. This legendary highway cuts a diagonal path through the heart of the US, taking you through Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. The highest point sits at 3,550 feet above sea level. Now, give yourself around 13 days to soak it all in. Don't expect an easy ride — signage can be sparse and it's not on your standard map. You'll be cruising on the same road that Easy Rider made famous. Get ready for an epic adventure!