White Mountain Road has taxed the nerves of more than a few drivers in CA
White Mountain Road is a very scenic mountain road located in Inyo County, in the U.S. state of California. It’s one of the highest roads of California.
How long is White Mountain Road?
Set high in the White Mountains, within the Inyo National Forest, the road is 28.3 miles (45.5km) long. This is a truly spectacular piece of road, unique for its high altitude, unmatched views of the Eastern Sierra, and proximity to the oldest living things on earth. The Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest is home to the oldest trees in the world, bristlecone pines.
Is White Mountain Road in California paved?
The road is mostly unpaved. Starting at CA-168 road, the first 10.2 miles are paved. The rest of the journey is on a gravel surface. The road climbs up many mountain passes and runs entirely at 3.000m above the sea level.
Is White Mountain Road in California challenging?
The road is very steep. The average gradient is 6.02%. The road is rough and rocky, but suitable for 2-wheel drive vehicles if you take your time. Recommended heavy duty tires and/or very slow driving to avoid punctures on the sharp rocks. This trail is not for the faint hearted – it is steep, and there are spots where a slip or fall could cause serious injury.
Is White Mountain Road in California open?
Located in the east central portion of the California, the road ends at Barcroft Field Station at 3.800m (12,470 ft) above the sea level. Access is restricted by a locked gate about 2 miles before the station. The road is generally open from mid-May through the end of November, weather permitting. Winters are extremely severe, with the peak receiving upwards of 13 feet (400 cm) of snow annually.