SC-390 is a Brazilian ludicrously zigzagged road

SC-390 is a sharply winding and precipitous ascent in a steep and narrow zig-zag road located in the southeast of the state of Santa Catarina, in Brazil. It’s one of the famous hairpinned roads in the world. 

When was SC-390 road built?

The road was built in 1903. It’s totally paved. Set high in Serra do Rio do Rastro, a mountain range located in Lauro Müller, the road tops out at an elevation of 1.465m (4,806ft) above the sea level. In the highest areas of this place, the Atlantic Ocean, located about 100 km (62 mi) away, can be spotted on clear days. This is just one of the characteristics that makes this place special and unique, since there are lakes, falls, cascades, native wildlife and stunning nature, which cause this region to be one of the most beautiful places in Brazil. 

What’s the weather like in Serra do Rio do Rastro?

Tucked away on the southern part of the country, this ludicrously zigzagged route tumbles past waterfalls, through canyons and past spectacular scenery from start to finish. Summer (December 'till March) is the prefered time of the year to visit, because in the winter there's too much fog. That's not to say there is not fog in the summer, but only when a front cold comes from the south. The coldest town in Brazil is Sao Joaquim da Serra, about 20 miles far from the Serra do Rio do Rastro. Temperature drops to below zero and snow falls in the winter. The climate in this region is temperate due to its altitude of about 1,500m and its proximity to the sea, resulting in an annual average temperature of 12° C.  

Is SC-390 road challenging?

The road has remarkable landscapes and deep crags. The journey of the Sierra do Rio do Rastro goes from 4,790 feet to sea level in only eight miles, with an average gradient of 9.2%. But if you think this is going to be some leisurely afternoon putt-putt, think again: there are 250 corners. This road (also called Rodovia Daniel Brüning) is located in the state of Santa Catarina, in the southern corner of the country. Santa Catarina state was colonized by Germans and Italians and its culture is very European. You will notice that the houses are built German style and people are very fair skinned. 

How long is SC-390 road?

The road is 12.87km (8 miles) long and has a total of 250 corners, taking you from 4500 feet to sea level in minutes... Starting at Santa Catarina, the ascent is 7 km long. Over this distance, the elevation gain is 646 meters. The average percentage is 9.2%. Lighting is provided to the whole road by huge windmills. There's little traffic in this road.