---
title: "High Points Beside the Trail — EV Backroads"
description: "Seventy-four exact off-road routes screened for epic summit, ridge, lookout, pass, canyon-rim, cliff, and gorge views, including nineteen centered on Northern Utah."
canonical_url: "https://www.evbackroads.com/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail"
last_updated: "2026-08-09"
---

MOUNTAIN TOPS, CLIFFS, AND OVERLOOKS

# High Points Beside the Trail

Seventy-four exact off-road routes screened for epic summit, ridge, lookout, pass, canyon-rim, cliff, and gorge views, including nineteen centered on Northern Utah.

[Open all trail lines on the map](/map#network-map)[See the short list](#the-short-list)

![Gravel road and parked off-road vehicles on a high Oquirrh Mountain ridge at Copper Mine Overlook.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/copper-mine-overlook-1800.webp)

COPPER MINE OVERLOOK · NORTHERN UTAH [runt35 / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Kennecott_Overlook_-_panoramio.jpg) · [CC BY 3.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/)

THE TEST

## The road must meet the topography.

A mapped or route-documented summit, ridge crest, lookout, or saddle within one mile creates a candidate. It does not prove an epic view. Summit and ridge routes must also occupy local high ground; saddles, passes, cliffs, rims, and gorges must show a defensible relief pattern.

Every published route has route-specific scenic evidence. All 88 screened observation points use roughly 20-to-30-meter terrain cells, with a USGS 3DEP check at 1, 3, or about 10 meters. Elevation grids do not show tree cover and can soften narrow cliffs.

The exact trail centerlines are frozen with their source identity. Check the land manager, gate, weather, permit, and current route report before travel.

The map is not an open-road report. Snow, fire, washouts, gates, permits, and local orders can change access. Check the linked land manager on the day of travel.

54

Summits and ridges Each passes the local-high and view-evidence gates.

20

Top-edge roads Each has documented relief, exposure, or an overlook.

74

Exact trail lines 35 are in Washington, Oregon, or Idaho.

NEW FOCUS · NORTHERN UTAH

## Nineteen exact lines rise above the Wasatch Front and Uintas.

This expansion starts at the Great Salt Lake and Cache Valley, follows the Wasatch crest, and reaches the western and northeastern Uintas. It includes nine summit roads, four local-high ridges, and six documented top-edge routes: a terminal cliff, a mine overlook, a gorge-edge loop, two route-record overlooks, and a high canyon saddle. Gold Hill Pass, Rishel Peak, Farmington Canyon, Potters Peak, and Bear Lake Summit remain documented rejects because terrain or route-specific view evidence does not clear the full gate.

[Inspiration Point](#trail-inspiration-point-utah)[Logan Peak](#trail-logan-peak-utah)[Francis Peak](#trail-francis-peak-utah)[Bountiful Peak — Skyline Drive](#trail-bountiful-peak-skyline-drive)[Sessions Mountain Road](#trail-sessions-mountain-road)[Black Mountain Road](#trail-black-mountain-road-utah)[Middle Canyon — Copper Mine Overlook](#trail-copper-mine-overlook)[Ute Mountain Lookout](#trail-ute-mountain-lookout)[Ashley Gorge Viewpoint](#trail-ashley-gorge-viewpoint)[Mill Hollow Ridge](#trail-mill-hollow-ridge)[Table Top](#trail-table-top-utah)[Trail Hollow West — Lightning Ridge](#trail-trail-hollow-west-lightning-ridge)[Kyhv Peak Road](#trail-kyhv-peak-road)[Reservation Ridge Scenic Backway](#trail-reservation-ridge-scenic-backway)[Josie Morris Loop — Cliff Ridge](#trail-josie-morris-loop-cliff-ridge)[Miller Hill](#trail-miller-hill-utah)[Strawberry Ridge](#trail-strawberry-ridge-utah)[Millville Canyon — Saddle Viewpoint](#trail-millville-canyon-saddle)[Cummings Parkway — Middle Mountain](#trail-cummings-parkway-middle-mountain)

DAVE’S SPECIAL · PACIFIC NORTHWEST FOCUS

## The high-point screen starts inside Dave’s trail set.

Dave’s Special has eight stages. Slate Peak and Hart’s Pass pass the epic-view screen. Mountain Loop Highway stays below Barlow Point, Murphy Creek Road stays below Iron Mountain, and Segelsen stays below Finney Peak; none clears the local-high and route-specific epic-view gates. Coal Lake, Clear Creek, and Dan’s Creek also stay in the full trail set. Thirty-five of these seventy-four routes are in Washington, Oregon, or Idaho. The rest keep the collection national.

[Hart’s Pass](#trail-harts-pass)[Slate Peak](#trail-slate-peak)[Open all eight Dave’s Special stages](/adventures/daves-special-north-cascades)[Burnt Knob Lookout](#trail-burnt-knob-lookout)[Hat Point](#trail-hat-point)[Steens Mountain Loop](#trail-steens-mountain-loop)[Sun Top Lookout](#trail-sun-top-lookout)[Roaring Ridge Lookout](#trail-roaring-ridge-lookout)[Bethel Ridge](#trail-bethel-ridge)[Obstruction Point Road](#trail-obstruction-point-road)[Flag Point Lookout Road](#trail-flag-point-lookout-road)[Dixie Butte Lookout](#trail-dixie-butte-lookout)[Railroad Ridge — Livingston Mine](#trail-railroad-ridge-jim-creek-livingston-mine)[Entiat Ridge — Sugarloaf Peak](#trail-entiat-ridge-sugarloaf-peak)[Cooper Mountain Road](#trail-cooper-mountain-road)[Goat Peak East](#trail-goat-peak-east)[Hells Half-Acre Lookout](#trail-hells-half-acre-lookout)[Chinese Peak](#trail-chinese-peak-idaho)[Sawtelle Peak Road — Sawtell Peak](#trail-sawtelle-sawtell-peak)[Bruneau Canyon Overlook](#trail-bruneau-canyon-overlook)[Amabilis Mountain](#trail-amabilis-mountain)[Cleman Mountain Ridge Road](#trail-cleman-mountain-ridge-road)[Funk Mountain Lookout](#trail-funk-mountain-lookout)[Steliko Lookout Tower](#trail-steliko-lookout-tower)[Bonney Butte Road](#trail-bonney-butte-road)[Desolation Butte Lookout](#trail-desolation-butte-lookout)[Castle Butte Lookout](#trail-castle-butte-lookout-idaho)[Twin Peaks Lookout](#trail-twin-peaks-lookout-idaho)[Mann Butte](#trail-mann-butte)[Basin Butte Road](#trail-basin-butte-road)[Carey Dome Fire Lookout](#trail-carey-dome-fire-lookout)[No Business Lookout](#trail-no-business-lookout)[Pinyon Peak Lookout](#trail-pinyon-peak-lookout)[Snowbank Mountain Lookout](#trail-snowbank-mountain-lookout)[Weitas Butte Lookout](#trail-weitas-butte-lookout)[Bear Valley Lookout](#trail-bear-valley-lookout)

WHAT THE NUMBERS MEAN

## One candidate radius. One epic-view gate.

01

### Candidate test

A mapped or route-documented summit, lookout, ridge crest, saddle, pass, rim, cliff, gorge, or overlook no more than 1.0 mile from the exact route centerline creates a candidate. Proximity alone does not qualify a route.

02

### Epic-view test

Every published route must have explicit scenic-view evidence in its route record or a linked public land-manager source. Terrain finds candidates; source evidence decides whether the view belongs to the drivable route.

03

### Terrain test

The screen compares the nearest exact route point with terrain on multiple radii from 0.1 to 5 miles. Summit candidates must have most nearby terrain below the route and meaningful relief at the wider scale. A saddle, pass, rim, cliff, gorge, or overlook can qualify through sharp local relief or a saddle-and-edge pattern, but it also needs route-specific evidence of the view or exposure.

04

### Resolution check

The screening raster is about 20 to 30 meters per pixel. We checked each observation point against the best available USGS 3DEP elevation layer, which resolves these points at 1, 3, or about 10 meters. Neither source shows trees, and both can soften a narrow cliff or road cut. [Open the USGS point-query source.](https://apps.nationalmap.gov/epqs/)

THE SHORT LIST

## Choose the landform first.

[01 Inspiration Point CLIFF EDGE · UT](#trail-inspiration-point-utah)[02 Logan Peak NAMED SUMMIT · UT](#trail-logan-peak-utah)[03 Francis Peak NAMED SUMMIT · UT](#trail-francis-peak-utah)[04 Bountiful Peak — Skyline Drive NAMED SUMMIT · UT](#trail-bountiful-peak-skyline-drive)[05 Sessions Mountain Road SCENIC LOOKOUT · UT](#trail-sessions-mountain-road)[06 Black Mountain Road NAMED SUMMIT · UT](#trail-black-mountain-road-utah)[07 Middle Canyon — Copper Mine Overlook SCENIC LOOKOUT · UT](#trail-copper-mine-overlook)[08 Ute Mountain Lookout NAMED SUMMIT · UT](#trail-ute-mountain-lookout)[09 Ashley Gorge Viewpoint PASS + GORGE · UT](#trail-ashley-gorge-viewpoint)[10 Mill Hollow Ridge LOCAL-HIGH RIDGE · UT](#trail-mill-hollow-ridge)[11 Table Top NAMED SUMMIT · UT](#trail-table-top-utah)[12 6S59 — Shuteye Peak NAMED SUMMIT · CA](#trail-6s59-shuteye-peak)[13 Slate Peak NAMED SUMMIT · WA](#trail-slate-peak)[14 Greenie Peak NAMED SUMMIT · NM](#trail-greenie-peak)[15 Custer Peak NAMED SUMMIT · SD](#trail-custer-peak)[16 Reddish Knob NAMED SUMMIT · VA](#trail-reddish-knob)[17 Flagpole Knob NAMED SUMMIT · VA](#trail-flagpole-knob)[18 Burnt Knob Lookout NAMED SUMMIT · ID](#trail-burnt-knob-lookout)[19 Hat Point SCENIC LOOKOUT · OR](#trail-hat-point)[20 Toroweap CLIFF EDGE · AZ](#trail-toroweap)[21 Alstrom Point CLIFF EDGE · UT](#trail-alstrom-point)[22 Steens Mountain Loop HIGH RIM · OR](#trail-steens-mountain-loop)[23 Schofield Pass PASS + GORGE · CO](#trail-schofield-pass)[24 Saints John — Glacier Mountain NAMED SUMMIT · CO](#trail-saints-john-glacier-mountain)[25 Sun Top Lookout SCENIC LOOKOUT · WA](#trail-sun-top-lookout)[26 Roaring Ridge Lookout NAMED SUMMIT · WA](#trail-roaring-ridge-lookout)[27 Bethel Ridge HIGH RIM · WA](#trail-bethel-ridge)[28 Obstruction Point Road SCENIC LOOKOUT · WA](#trail-obstruction-point-road)[29 Flag Point Lookout Road SCENIC LOOKOUT · OR](#trail-flag-point-lookout-road)[30 Dixie Butte Lookout NAMED SUMMIT · OR](#trail-dixie-butte-lookout)[31 Railroad Ridge — Livingston Mine NAMED SUMMIT · ID](#trail-railroad-ridge-jim-creek-livingston-mine)[32 Hart’s Pass HIGH PASS · WA](#trail-harts-pass)[33 Entiat Ridge — Sugarloaf Peak NAMED SUMMIT · WA](#trail-entiat-ridge-sugarloaf-peak)[34 Cooper Mountain Road NAMED SUMMIT · WA](#trail-cooper-mountain-road)[35 Goat Peak East NAMED SUMMIT · WA](#trail-goat-peak-east)[36 Hells Half-Acre Lookout NAMED SUMMIT · ID](#trail-hells-half-acre-lookout)[37 Harquahala Mountain Summit Road NAMED SUMMIT · AZ](#trail-harquahala-mountain-summit-road)[38 Mount Antero NAMED SUMMIT · CO](#trail-mount-antero)[39 Sierra Buttes Lookout NAMED SUMMIT · CA](#trail-sierra-buttes-lookout)[40 Black Mountain Lookout NAMED SUMMIT · WY](#trail-black-mountain-lookout-wyoming)[41 Trail Hollow West — Lightning Ridge HIGH RIM · UT](#trail-trail-hollow-west-lightning-ridge)[42 Kyhv Peak Road NAMED SUMMIT · UT](#trail-kyhv-peak-road)[43 Reservation Ridge Scenic Backway LOCAL-HIGH RIDGE · UT](#trail-reservation-ridge-scenic-backway)[44 Chinese Peak NAMED SUMMIT · ID](#trail-chinese-peak-idaho)[45 Sawtelle Peak Road — Sawtell Peak NAMED SUMMIT · ID](#trail-sawtelle-sawtell-peak)[46 Shadow Mountain Road NAMED SUMMIT · WY](#trail-shadow-mountain-road-wyoming)[47 Bruneau Canyon Overlook CLIFF EDGE · ID](#trail-bruneau-canyon-overlook)[48 Amabilis Mountain NAMED SUMMIT · WA](#trail-amabilis-mountain)[49 Cleman Mountain Ridge Road LOCAL-HIGH RIDGE · WA](#trail-cleman-mountain-ridge-road)[50 Funk Mountain Lookout NAMED SUMMIT · WA](#trail-funk-mountain-lookout)[51 Steliko Lookout Tower SCENIC LOOKOUT · WA](#trail-steliko-lookout-tower)[52 Bonney Butte Road NAMED SUMMIT · OR](#trail-bonney-butte-road)[53 Desolation Butte Lookout NAMED SUMMIT · OR](#trail-desolation-butte-lookout)[54 Castle Butte Lookout NAMED SUMMIT · ID](#trail-castle-butte-lookout-idaho)[55 Twin Peaks Lookout NAMED SUMMIT · ID](#trail-twin-peaks-lookout-idaho)[56 Red Cone NAMED SUMMIT · CO](#trail-red-cone-colorado)[57 Hatcher Pass Road HIGH PASS · AK](#trail-hatcher-pass-road)[58 Waucheesi Mountain NAMED SUMMIT · TN](#trail-waucheesi-mountain)[59 Spruce Knob NAMED SUMMIT · WV](#trail-spruce-knob-west-virginia)[60 Sandstone Bluffs Overlook CLIFF EDGE · NM](#trail-sandstone-bluff-overlook)[61 Bill Williams Fire Lookout NAMED SUMMIT · AZ](#trail-bill-williams-fire-lookout)[62 Mann Butte NAMED SUMMIT · WA](#trail-mann-butte)[63 Josie Morris Loop — Cliff Ridge LOCAL-HIGH RIDGE · UT](#trail-josie-morris-loop-cliff-ridge)[64 Miller Hill NAMED SUMMIT · UT](#trail-miller-hill-utah)[65 Strawberry Ridge LOCAL-HIGH RIDGE · UT](#trail-strawberry-ridge-utah)[66 Millville Canyon — Saddle Viewpoint SCENIC SADDLE · UT](#trail-millville-canyon-saddle)[67 Cummings Parkway — Middle Mountain NAMED SUMMIT · UT](#trail-cummings-parkway-middle-mountain)[68 Basin Butte Road NAMED SUMMIT · ID](#trail-basin-butte-road)[69 Carey Dome Fire Lookout NAMED SUMMIT · ID](#trail-carey-dome-fire-lookout)[70 No Business Lookout NAMED SUMMIT · ID](#trail-no-business-lookout)[71 Pinyon Peak Lookout NAMED SUMMIT · ID](#trail-pinyon-peak-lookout)[72 Snowbank Mountain Lookout NAMED SUMMIT · ID](#trail-snowbank-mountain-lookout)[73 Weitas Butte Lookout NAMED SUMMIT · ID](#trail-weitas-butte-lookout)[74 Bear Valley Lookout NAMED SUMMIT · ID](#trail-bear-valley-lookout)

MOUNTAIN TOPS

## 54 roads pass the local-high summit or ridge test.

Every line is within one mile of a named top or documented ridge crest, occupies defensible local high ground, and has route-specific view evidence. Each card states whether the road reaches the feature, follows its crest, or stops below it.

![Logan Peak rising beyond Cache Valley beneath a blue sky.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/logan-peak-utah-960.webp)

Named feature Logan Peak above Cache Valley. The photograph identifies Logan Peak from Logan; it is not a summit panorama.

[Photo: Chris Light / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Logan_Peak_5345.jpg) · [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the exact road to Logan Peak](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/logan-peak-utah.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 02 · UT

Bear River Mountains · Utah

### Logan Peak

Cache Valley spread below the summit of the Bear River Mountains

Feature

Logan Peak

Road relationship

Road reaches the Logan Peak summit

Exact line

2.5 mi

Route high

9,706 ft

Source identity

#2695 · 160 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 15, 2025

The exact off-road line reaches the USGS summit coordinate. Visit Utah ties the jeep and ATV drive to expansive Cache Valley views, and every sampled terrain point within one mile sits below the route observer.

Plan before travel This is a narrow, rocky shelf road with steep side slopes. The route record lists a June 1 through November 15 season. Confirm snow, gates, washouts, and the current MVUM.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-111.72366&south=41.70472&east=-111.69325&north=41.71985&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/trails/2695-logan-peak)[Visit Utah Logan Peak drive guide](https://www.visitutah.com/articles/logan-canyon-hiking)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1442859&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/alerts)

![Panorama from Francis Peak across Great Salt Lake toward Antelope Island.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/francis-peak-utah-960.webp)

View from the named feature Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island from Francis Peak. The panorama was photographed from Francis Peak.

[Photo: Truxillo / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:GSL_Antelope_Island.jpg) · [CC BY-SA 3.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the Francis Peak off-road route](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/francis-peak-utah.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 03 · UT

Wasatch Front · Utah

### Francis Peak

Great Salt Lake on one side of the crest and Morgan Valley on the other

Feature

Francis Peak

Road relationship

Road climbs the shoulder below Francis Peak

Exact line

4.4 mi

Route high

9,181 ft

Source identity

#1436 · 248 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jun 7, 2025

The exact line climbs the shoulder below the USGS summit. The route record documents views from both sides of the mountain, while the observer remains above 86% of sampled terrain within one mile.

Plan before travel High clearance is recommended beyond the main peak approach. The source status is not a day-of-travel gate report; check the current MVUM, weather, fire, and Forest Service alerts.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-111.88637&south=40.97455&east=-111.74940&north=41.04346&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/scout-routes/1436-francis-peak)[Forest Service Salt Lake MVUM](https://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/nfs/files/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/publication/SaltLakeMVUM.pdf)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1441209&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/alerts)

![The northeast face of Bountiful Peak viewed from grassy Farmington Flats.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/bountiful-peak-skyline-drive-960.webp)

Named feature Bountiful Peak from Farmington Flats. The photograph shows the northeast side of Bountiful Peak from Farmington Flats.

[Photo: Andrey Zharkikh / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bountiful_Peak.jpg) · [CC BY 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of Skyline Drive beside Bountiful Peak](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/bountiful-peak-skyline-drive.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 04 · UT

Wasatch Front · Utah

### Bountiful Peak — Skyline Drive

The canyon, Great Salt Lake valley, and Wasatch Front cities below

Feature

Bountiful Peak

Road relationship

Skyline Drive crosses the Bountiful Peak summit ridge

Exact line

7.8 mi

Route high

9,105 ft

Source identity

#1432 · 723 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 1, 2025

The exact Skyline Drive line crosses the summit ridge at Bountiful Peak, where the Forest Service MVUM maps the high road network. The route observer stands above 89% of sampled terrain within one mile.

Plan before travel The route record lists a July 1 through November 1 season. Expect narrow dirt, washboard, and potholes. Confirm the current gate, snow, fire, and MVUM before travel.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-111.89184&south=40.91663&east=-111.72511&north=41.00057&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/scout-routes/1432-bountiful-canyon-skyline-drive)[Forest Service Salt Lake MVUM](https://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/nfs/files/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/publication/SaltLakeMVUM.pdf)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1439040&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/alerts)

![Aerial view across the arid Lakeside Mountains west of Great Salt Lake.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/black-mountain-road-utah-960.webp)

Regional context The Lakeside Mountains west of Great Salt Lake. The aerial photograph shows the Lakeside Mountains, not the Black Mountain summit road itself.

[Photo: formulanone / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Lakeside_Mountains_-_West_of_Salt_Lake_(50419598912).jpg) · [CC BY-SA 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of Black Mountain Road above Great Salt Lake](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/black-mountain-road-utah.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 06 · UT

Lakeside Mountains · Utah

### Black Mountain Road

Great Salt Lake, open Great Basin valleys, and bare desert ranges

Feature

Black Mountain

Road relationship

Road reaches Black Mountain's tower summit

Exact line

2.8 mi

Route high

6,566 ft

Source identity

#4103 · 266 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jul 15, 2024

The exact road reaches the USGS summit coordinate at the tower site. Every sampled terrain point within one mile is lower, and the route record describes unobstructed views from a mountain that rises 2,300 feet above Great Salt Lake.

Plan before travel The steep loose road is remote even though the route record lists year-round access. Carry recovery gear and check weather, BLM restrictions, and surface conditions; desert mud can make travel unsafe.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-112.81803&south=40.82628&east=-112.76590&north=40.85257&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/scout-routes/4103-black-mountain-road)[BLM Salt Lake Field Office](https://www.blm.gov/office/salt-lake-field-office)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1425690&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.blm.gov/alerts)

![Ute Mountain fire lookout tower and Forest Service sign on the summit.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/ute-mountain-lookout-960.webp)

Named feature Ute Mountain Fire Lookout Tower. The photograph identifies the Ute Mountain fire lookout and its sign.

[Photo: USDA Forest Service photo by Terri Czaplewski](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ute_Tower_(14131346344).jpg) · [Public domain](https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the road to Ute Mountain Fire Lookout](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/ute-mountain-lookout.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 08 · UT

Uinta Mountains · Utah

### Ute Mountain Lookout

Flaming Gorge, Dinosaur country, and distant ridgelines across Ashley National Forest

Feature

Ute Mountain

Road relationship

Road ends beside Ute Mountain's historic lookout summit

Exact line

1.3 mi

Route high

8,829 ft

Source identity

#4939 · 89 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jun 17, 2025

The exact road ends beside the USGS summit and historic fire tower on Ute Mountain. The route record documents a panorama across roughly 360 square miles, and the observer stands above all sampled terrain within one mile.

Plan before travel Snow normally blocks this high-country road in winter and early spring despite the source's year-round designation. Check Ashley National Forest alerts, fire operations, and the current MVUM.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-109.80245&south=40.86543&east=-109.77185&north=40.88086&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/scout-routes/4939-ute-mountain-lookout)[Ashley National Forest Ute tower record](https://www.fs.usda.gov/media/254569)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1446898&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/ashley/alerts)

![Orange sunset light spreading across layered Wasatch ridges from Heber Mountain.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/mill-hollow-ridge-960.webp)

Regional view context Wasatch sunset from Heber Mountain, near the Mill Hollow Ridge region. The photograph was made on Heber Mountain in the same ranger district, not at the Mill Hollow Ridge viewpoint.

[Photo: USDA Forest Service photo by Nate Lowe](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:20190719-FS-UWC_NF-NL-Heber_Mountain_Sunset-01_(48937955612).jpg) · [Public domain](https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of Mill Hollow Ridge and its local-high observation point](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/mill-hollow-ridge.webp)

LOCAL-HIGH RIDGE 10 · UT

Western Uintas · Utah

### Mill Hollow Ridge

Heber Valley opening below a nearly 9,900-foot ridge crest

Feature

Mill Hollow Ridge crest

Road relationship

Road traverses the Mill Hollow Ridge crest

Exact line

3.5 mi

Route high

9,829 ft

Source identity

#4541 · 155 points

Source snapshot

Open · Sep 19, 2024

The route record ties expansive Heber Valley views to the named ridge. Its exact line reaches a local-high observer above 93% of sampled terrain within one mile, with about 1,400 feet of wider relief.

Plan before travel This unmaintained road is easy only when dry and clear. Check the current Heber–Kamas MVUM, snow, mud, fire, and Forest Service alerts before travel.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-111.19448&south=40.45046&east=-111.07200&north=40.51257&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/scout-routes/4541-mill-hollow-ridge)[2025 Heber–Kamas Forest Service MVUM](https://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/nfs/files/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/publication/HeberKamasMVUM_0.pdf)[USGS 3DEP ridge-point elevation](https://epqs.nationalmap.gov/v1/json?x=-111.1336586&y=40.469029&wkid=4326&units=Feet&includeDate=false)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/alerts)

![Open sagebrush foothills below the Uinta Mountains near Table Top.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/table-top-utah-960.webp)

Near-feature context Uinta foothills near Table Top. The geotagged photograph shows Uinta foothills near Table Top; it was not made from the summit.

[Photo: Ken Lund / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Foothills_of_the_Uintas_South_of_Evanston,_Wyoming.jpg) · [CC BY-SA 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the Table Top off-road route in the High Uintas](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/table-top-utah.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 11 · UT

High Uintas · Utah

### Table Top

A 10,700-foot ridge with open breaks across the High Uintas

Feature

Table Top

Road relationship

Road crosses the Table Top summit

Exact line

9.0 mi

Route high

10,751 ft

Source identity

#1303 · 884 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jul 26, 2025

The exact route crosses the USGS summit coordinate. The source record calls out the summit views, while 98% of sampled terrain within one mile is below the route observer.

Plan before travel The road is tight, muddy after heavy rain, and unsuitable for many full-size trucks. Mirror Lake Highway is gated in winter; confirm the current MVUM, gate, snow, and weather.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-110.78122&south=40.86602&east=-110.62035&north=40.94708&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/scout-routes/1303-table-top)[2025 Heber–Kamas Forest Service MVUM](https://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/nfs/files/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/publication/HeberKamasMVUM_0.pdf)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1446319&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/alerts)

![A broad valley view framed by steep Wasatch slopes in the Kyhv Peak area.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/kyhv-peak-road-960.webp)

Named-feature context The mountain and valley landscape in the Kyhv Peak area. The photograph is geotagged in the Kyhv Peak area, but it was not verified as the view from the route's high shoulder.

[Photo: Keagan / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Kyhv_Peak_View.jpg) · [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the road across the shoulder below Kyhv Peak](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/kyhv-peak-road.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 42 · UT

Wasatch Front · Utah

### Kyhv Peak Road

Wasatch canyons and the mountain flank below Kyhv Peak

Feature

Kyhv Peak

Road relationship

Road crosses the high shoulder below Kyhv Peak

Exact line

24.3 mi

Route high

8,538 ft

Source identity

#1457 · 1,792 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 15, 2025

The exact line crosses the high shoulder below Kyhv Peak and opens toward the surrounding Wasatch canyons. The named summit stays above the road as the route traverses its mountain flank.

Plan before travel The source record lists a May 15 through November 15 season. Check the current gate, fire, washout, weather, and MVUM data; drainage rollers can contact low vehicles.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-111.77078&south=40.15120&east=-111.36181&north=40.35927&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/scout-routes/1457-squaw-peak)[Forest Service Pleasant Grove MVUM](https://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/nfs/files/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/publication/PleasantGroveMVUM.pdf)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1446080&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/alerts)

![Warm sunset colors reflected across Strawberry Reservoir near Mud Creek.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/reservation-ridge-scenic-backway-960.webp)

Signature-landmark context Sunset over Strawberry Reservoir near Mud Creek. The photograph shows Strawberry Reservoir near Mud Creek, a documented view landmark from Reservation Ridge; it is not the ridge road.

[Photo: USDA Forest Service photo by Anthony Gray](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sunset_in_Mud_Creek_(11953498823).jpg) · [Public domain](https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of Forest Road 147 along Reservation Ridge](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/reservation-ridge-scenic-backway.webp)

LOCAL-HIGH RIDGE 43 · UT

Strawberry Plateau · Utah

### Reservation Ridge Scenic Backway

Strawberry Reservoir, rugged cliffs, and steep plateau canyons

Feature

Reservation Ridge

Road relationship

Forest Road 147 follows the crest of Reservation Ridge

Exact line

18.5 mi

Route high

9,835 ft

Source identity

#340 · 1,117 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jul 2, 2017

Forest Road 147 follows the crest of Reservation Ridge. Openings reveal Strawberry Reservoir, rugged cliffs, and steep canyons below the plateau.

Plan before travel This is a one-lane dirt backway where four-wheel drive is recommended. Avoid wet conditions and confirm the current MVUM, fire restrictions, weather, and road alerts.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-111.03215&south=39.84096&east=-110.71144&north=40.00493&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/scout-routes/340-reservation-ridge)[Ashley National Forest Visitor Guide — Reservation Ridge Scenic Backway](https://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/nfs/files/r04/ashley/publication/Ashley%20Visitor%20Guide.pdf)[USGS National Map ridge record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1444865&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/ashley/alerts)

![The Green River winding through Dinosaur National Monument with Cliff Ridge on the far horizon.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/josie-morris-loop-cliff-ridge-960.webp)

Named-feature context Green River, Cub Creek Road, and distant Cliff Ridge in Dinosaur National Monument. The Dinosaur National Monument photograph identifies Cliff Ridge as the farthest ridge beyond the Green River and Cub Creek Road.

[Photo: Michael Overton / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Green_River_UT_2005-10-14_2101.jpg) · [CC BY-SA 2.5](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of Josie Morris Loop climbing Cliff Ridge](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/josie-morris-loop-cliff-ridge.webp)

LOCAL-HIGH RIDGE 63 · UT

Dinosaur Country · Utah

### Josie Morris Loop — Cliff Ridge

Green River, Split Mountain, and Dinosaur National Monument in a full-circle panorama

Feature

Cliff Ridge

Road relationship

Loop climbs Cliff Ridge to the Panoramic Overlook

Exact line

34.4 mi

Route high

8,225 ft

Source identity

#8717 · 2,473 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jun 15, 2025

Josie Morris Loop climbs Cliff Ridge to an exposed crest and the route's Panoramic Overlook. The view opens across the Green River, Split Mountain, and Dinosaur National Monument.

Plan before travel Dinosaur National Monument bars OHV-type vehicles on monument roads; use a street-legal full-size vehicle. Wet clay can make Cub Creek Road impassable, so check current NPS conditions and BLM route rules.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-109.35745&south=40.31958&east=-109.08734&north=40.45674&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/trails/8717-josie-morris-loop)[BLM Cliff Ridge overlook guide](https://www.blm.gov/visit/cliff-ridge-hang-gliding-area)[USGS National Map ridge record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1426722&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://home.nps.gov/dino/planyourvisit/conditions.htm)

![A rough mountain road climbing through Mineral Basin near Miller Hill.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/miller-hill-utah-960.webp)

Route-area context Mineral Basin Road near Miller Hill. The photograph shows Mineral Basin Road near Miller Hill; it is not verified as Forest Road 596's final overlook.

[Photo: photophat / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Mineral_Basin_Road_-_panoramio_(1).jpg) · [CC BY 3.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of Forest Road 596 below Miller Hill](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/miller-hill-utah.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 64 · UT

Wasatch Back · Utah

### Miller Hill

Wasatch summits and abandoned mine workings from a high shoulder overlook

Feature

Miller Hill

Road relationship

Forest Road 596 ends on the high shoulder below Miller Hill

Exact line

4.1 mi

Route high

9,853 ft

Source identity

#1956 · 199 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 1, 2025

Forest Road 596 ends on the high shoulder of Miller Hill, below its summit. The final overlook faces the Wasatch Mountains and abandoned mine workings upslope.

Plan before travel A seasonal gate controls the approach. Expect loose rock, a narrow shelf, and limited full-size turnaround space near the end; verify the current MVUM and forest alerts.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-111.63149&south=40.52683&east=-111.58410&north=40.55084&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/trails/1956-miller-hill)[Forest Service Pleasant Grove MVUM](https://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/nfs/files/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/publication/PleasantGroveMVUM.pdf)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1443486&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/alerts)

![Open high country and forested slopes along Strawberry Ridge.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/strawberry-ridge-utah-960.webp)

Named feature Strawberry Ridge in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest. The Forest Service photograph explicitly identifies Strawberry Ridge.

[Photo: USDA Forest Service photo by Kirk North](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Strawberry_Ridge_(13945140909).jpg) · [Public domain](https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of Forest Road 135 along Strawberry Ridge](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/strawberry-ridge-utah.webp)

LOCAL-HIGH RIDGE 65 · UT

Wasatch Back · Utah

### Strawberry Ridge

Mount Timpanogos, Strawberry Peak, and Square Top above Strawberry Reservoir

Feature

Strawberry Ridge

Road relationship

Forest Road 135 follows the crest of Strawberry Ridge

Exact line

13.5 mi

Route high

9,509 ft

Source identity

#2657 · 297 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 30, 2025

Forest Road 135 follows the crest of Strawberry Ridge. The high road opens toward Mount Timpanogos, Strawberry Peak, and Square Top Mountain above Strawberry Reservoir.

Plan before travel Snow and a seasonal gate control the approach. Expect dust, blind corners, and large whoops; check the current MVUM, gate, weather, and forest alerts.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-111.43392&south=40.17313&east=-111.16639&north=40.30927&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/trails/2657-strawberry-ridge)[Forest Service Heber-Kamas MVUM](https://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/nfs/files/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/publication/HeberKamasMVUM_0.pdf)[USGS National Map ridge record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1446190&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/alerts)

![Heber Valley spread below forested Wasatch slopes from Snake Creek Road.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/cummings-parkway-middle-mountain-960.webp)

Nearby signature view Heber Valley from Snake Creek Road near Middle Mountain. The photograph looks over Heber Valley from Snake Creek Road near Middle Mountain; it was not verified as a Cummings Parkway viewpoint.

[Photo: An Errant Knight / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Southeast_at_Heber_Valley_from_Snake_Creek_Rd,_Apr_16.jpg) · [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of Cummings Parkway on Middle Mountain](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/cummings-parkway-middle-mountain.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 67 · UT

Heber Valley · Utah

### Cummings Parkway — Middle Mountain

Heber Valley and a full-circle Wasatch mountain horizon

Feature

Middle Mountain

Road relationship

Cummings Parkway climbs the high flank of Middle Mountain

Exact line

8.0 mi

Route high

8,566 ft

Source identity

#2564 · 846 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 30, 2025

Cummings Parkway climbs the high flank of Middle Mountain above Heber Valley. The shelf road reaches broad views across the Wasatch peaks and valley floor.

Plan before travel A park fee can apply, and vehicles must stay on designated roads. Check seasonal gates, current park conditions, fire restrictions, and weather; the rocky shelf road needs high clearance.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-111.64948&south=40.44536&east=-111.42970&north=40.55677&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/scout-routes/2564-cummings-parkway-road)[Forest Service Cummings Parkway road guide](https://www.fs.usda.gov/media/117013)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1443366&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://stateparks.utah.gov/parks/wasatch-mountain/current-conditions/)

![Rocky summit ridge and lingering snow below Slate Peak Lookout, with jagged North Cascade peaks on the horizon.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/slate-peak-960.webp)

View from the named feature Looking west from Slate Peak Lookout toward Jack Mountain and the North Cascades. The photograph looks west from the Slate Peak Lookout tower.

[Photo: Eli Duke / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:View_from_Slate_Peak_lookout_tower_looking_west.jpg) · [CC BY-SA 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![Topographic route map for Slate Peak in Washington](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/slate-peak.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 13 · WA

North Cascades · Washington

### Slate Peak

The Pasayten Wilderness and the sharp skyline of the North Cascades

Feature

Slate Peak

Road relationship

Road ends below Slate Peak's former lookout

Exact line

2.3 mi

Route high

7,152 ft

Source identity

#4215 · 110 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Oct 1, 2025

The drive ends below Slate Peak. A short road walk reaches the former lookout site and open summit ground.

Plan before travel Hart's Pass has a short season and can close for snow, washouts, or fire. Confirm the road and gate before the long approach.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-120.70496&south=48.71685&east=-120.63874&north=48.74597&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/washington/trails/4215-slate-peak)[Slate Peak road-hike and access report](https://www.wta.org/go-hiking/hikes/harts-pass-and-slate-peak)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1525917&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)

![Topographic route map for Burnt Knob Lookout in Idaho](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/burnt-knob-lookout.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 18 · ID

Selway–Bitterroot · Idaho

### Burnt Knob Lookout

Remote Clearwater ridges at the edge of the Selway–Bitterroot Wilderness

Feature

Burnt Knob Lookout

Road relationship

Spur ends beside the Burnt Knob lookout site

Exact line

1.6 mi

Route high

8,141 ft

Source identity

#872 · 147 points

Source snapshot

Open · Sep 21, 2024

The short spur ends beside the historic Burnt Knob lookout site on the broad summit.

Plan before travel Forest Road 468-C is recommended for four-wheel drive. The Magruder Corridor is remote and has no nearby services.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-115.01609&south=45.68956&east=-114.97252&north=45.70985&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/idaho/scout-routes/872-burnt-knob-lookout)[Forest Service Magruder Corridor guide](https://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/nfs/files/legacy-media/nezperce-clearwater/Magruder%20Road%20Corridor%20Brochure.pdf)[University of Idaho lookout record](https://cdil.lib.uidaho.edu/keeping-watch/items/burnt-knob.html)

![USGS topographic map of the exact Roaring Ridge Lookout route](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/roaring-ridge-lookout.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 26 · WA

Snoqualmie Pass · Washington

### Roaring Ridge Lookout

Keechelus Lake, Snoqualmie Pass, and an open Cascade skyline

Feature

Roaring Ridge

Road relationship

Road ends on Roaring Ridge at the former lookout site

Exact line

3.5 mi

Route high

4,834 ft

Source identity

#3872 · 456 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 1, 2025

The exact line ends on the summit ridge at the former lookout site. The final clearing gives a nearly unobstructed panorama above Interstate 90.

Plan before travel This is a seasonal forest route with mild obstacles and limited turnaround space. Check current forest alerts and snow conditions.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-121.43134&south=47.33050&east=-121.36956&north=47.35841&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/washington/trails/3872-roaring-ridge-lookout)[Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest alerts](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/mbs/alerts)[USGS National Map ridge record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1525088&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)

![USGS topographic map of the exact Dixie Butte Lookout route](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/dixie-butte-lookout.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 30 · OR

Blue Mountains · Oregon

### Dixie Butte Lookout

The Blue Mountains and the John Day country from a prominent summit

Feature

Dixie Butte

Road relationship

Road reaches the Dixie Butte summit

Exact line

5.3 mi

Route high

7,566 ft

Source identity

#4072 · 208 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jul 10, 2024

The exact route reaches the summit at Dixie Butte. The Forest Service identifies the butte as a high-elevation mountain summit with steep upper slopes.

Plan before travel The source record can say open while snow or fire changes access. Check Malheur National Forest alerts and the current MVUM.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-118.68504&south=44.52581&east=-118.53923&north=44.59507&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/oregon/scout-routes/4072-dixie-butte-lookout)[Malheur National Forest alerts](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/malheur/alerts)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1141075&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)

![USGS topographic map of the exact Railroad Ridge route to Livingston Mine](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/railroad-ridge-jim-creek-livingston-mine.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 31 · ID

White Cloud Mountains · Idaho

### Railroad Ridge — Livingston Mine

The Sawtooths, the White Clouds, and the Lost River Range from 10,417 feet

Feature

Railroad Ridge high meadow

Road relationship

Road ends on Railroad Ridge's high meadow

Exact line

6.4 mi

Route high

10,417 ft

Source identity

#343 · 895 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 30, 2025

The exact road ends on its measured 10,417-foot high meadow. It is one of the highest drivable source lines in Idaho and the tallest PNW route in this collection.

Plan before travel This is a steep, narrow, high-alpine road. Use it only when dry and legally open. Walk damaged or exposed sections before driving them.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-114.61397&south=44.11092&east=-114.50028&north=44.16531&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/idaho/scout-routes/343-railroad-ridge-jim-creeklivingston-mine)[Salmon-Challis National Forest maps and MVUM guidance](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/salmon-challis/maps-guides)[Idaho Geological Survey Livingston Mine and Railroad Ridge record](https://www.idahogeology.org/pub/Staff_Reports/1997/S-97-10.pdf)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/salmon-challis/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of Entiat Ridge Road beside Sugarloaf Peak](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/entiat-ridge-sugarloaf-peak.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 33 · WA

Entiat Mountains · Washington

### Entiat Ridge — Sugarloaf Peak

Sugarloaf lookout, long ridge views, and the high Entiat Mountains

Feature

Sugarloaf Peak

Road relationship

Road follows Entiat Ridge beneath Sugarloaf Peak

Exact line

22.5 mi

Route high

5,806 ft

Source identity

#4199 · 1,422 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jul 27, 2025

The ridge road follows Entiat Ridge beneath Sugarloaf Peak. The route record identifies the staffed fire lookout and wide-open sections along the ridge.

Plan before travel This long forest-road corridor can be affected by snow, wildfire, and temporary orders. Check the current MVUM and forest alerts on the day of travel.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-120.84918&south=47.59288&east=-120.19727&north=47.88515&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/washington/trails/4199-entiat-ridge-road)[Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okanogan-wenatchee)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1526671&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okanogan-wenatchee/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of Cooper Mountain Road at Cooper Mountain](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/cooper-mountain-road.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 34 · WA

Lake Chelan · Washington

### Cooper Mountain Road

A rocky west-facing outcrop above Lake Chelan country and the North Cascades

Feature

Cooper Mountain

Road relationship

Road crosses the Cooper Mountain summit section

Exact line

21.0 mi

Route high

6,117 ft

Source identity

#4207 · 547 points

Source snapshot

Temporary Closure · Aug 26, 2024

The exact line crosses the summit section of Cooper Mountain. The route source places a rocky viewpoint there and continues past several other high points.

Plan before travel The frozen route snapshot carried a temporary-closure status. Treat the road as closed unless the current Forest Service alert and MVUM confirm legal access.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-120.40080&south=47.90201&east=-119.88923&north=48.13014&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/washington/trails/4207-cooper-mountain-road)[Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okanogan-wenatchee)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1518057&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okanogan-wenatchee/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of Goat Peak East ending below Goat Peak](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/goat-peak-east.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 35 · WA

Central Cascades · Washington

### Goat Peak East

William O. Douglas Wilderness and nearly 360-degree Cascade views

Feature

Goat Peak

Road relationship

Road ends below Goat Peak; summit continues on foot

Exact line

6.2 mi

Route high

3,970 ft

Source identity

#4488 · 741 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 1, 2025

The road breaks out to broad views and ends below Goat Peak. The summit remains off the vehicle line and requires a separate foot approach described by the route source.

Plan before travel The road has a short snow-free season and the final terrain is not a vehicle route to the summit. Confirm seasonal access and stop if road damage or a gate blocks travel.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-121.25667&south=47.18431&east=-121.12911&north=47.24207&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/washington/trails/4488-goat-peak-east)[Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okanogan-wenatchee)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1520054&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okanogan-wenatchee/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of Hells Half-Acre Lookout on its named mountain](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/hells-half-acre-lookout.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 36 · ID

Bitterroot Mountains · Idaho

### Hells Half-Acre Lookout

Frank Church wilderness, Salmon-Challis high country, and the Bitterroot crest

Feature

Hells Half Acre Mountain

Road relationship

Road reaches Hells Half Acre Mountain's lookout summit

Exact line

10.1 mi

Route high

8,100 ft

Source identity

#873 · 684 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 30, 2025

The exact road line reaches the summit of Hells Half Acre Mountain. The route record places the staffed fire lookout on the 8,000-foot top.

Plan before travel This is a remote, seasonal spur from the Magruder Corridor. Check West Fork Ranger District alerts, fire activity, fuel range, and both approach and exit roads before travel.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-114.70850&south=45.63086&east=-114.51544&north=45.72079&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/idaho/scout-routes/873-hells-halfacre-lookout)[Bitterroot forest road record](https://www.fs.usda.gov/media/45002)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D383080&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r01/bitterroot/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of BLM Route 0301 across Chinese Peak](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/chinese-peak-idaho.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 44 · ID

Portneuf Range · Idaho

### Chinese Peak

Pocatello and the Blackrock trail system from an open summit road

Feature

Chinese Peak

Road relationship

BLM Route 0301 crosses the summit of Chinese Peak

Exact line

6.0 mi

Route high

6,783 ft

Source identity

#4510 · 872 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 15, 2025

BLM Route 0301 crosses the summit of Chinese Peak. View pullouts sit on the high road above Pocatello and the Blackrock trail system.

Plan before travel The annual motor closure normally runs from November 16 through April 14 and can extend for wet soil. Check current BLM advisories and travel only on signed routes.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-112.41218&south=42.81349&east=-112.30823&north=42.86431&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/idaho/scout-routes/4510-chinese-peak)[BLM Chinese Peak travel map](https://www.blm.gov/documents/idaho/public-room/map/chinese-peak-blackrock-trail-system-travel-georeferenced-map)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D399827&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.blm.gov/idaho/advisories-and-closures)

![Snow-covered Sawtell Peak and its summit radar installation above forest and the Madison River.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/sawtelle-sawtell-peak-960.webp)

Named feature portrait Sawtell Peak rises beyond the snowy Madison River valley. The photograph identifies Sawtell Peak and its summit radar installation from the Madison River valley; it is not the road-top panorama.

[Photo: National Park Service photo by Jacob W. Frank](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sawtell_Peak_rises_above_the_Madison_River_on_Riverside_Drive_%2846559930684%29.jpg) · [Public domain](https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of Forest Road 024 climbing Sawtell Peak](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/sawtelle-sawtell-peak.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 45 · ID

Centennial Mountains · Idaho

### Sawtelle Peak Road — Sawtell Peak

Grand Teton, Henrys Lake, Island Park Reservoir, and the Centennial Mountains

Feature

Sawtell Peak

Road relationship

Forest Road 024 climbs onto Sawtell Peak

Exact line

9.7 mi

Route high

9,876 ft

Source identity

#4533 · 598 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jun 17, 2026

Forest Road 024 climbs onto Sawtell Peak itself. The broad summit stands above the Centennial Mountains, and the route record identifies the summit view as the purpose of the drive.

Plan before travel The road is gated in winter and washboard can reduce traction. Recheck Caribou-Targhee alerts, snow, weather, and the gate even when the source route reports open.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-111.46610&south=44.51379&east=-111.33748&north=44.57490&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/idaho/trails/4533-sawtelle-peak)[Forest Service Sawtell Peak route and winter-gate map](https://www.fs.usda.gov/media/239091)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D389990&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/caribou-targhee/alerts)

![Snow-covered firs frame cloud-wrapped mountain slopes and a broad valley from the Amabilis Mountain road.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/amabilis-mountain-960.webp)

Exact road view A winter mountain view from the road up Amabilis Mountain. The photograph was made from the road up Amabilis Mountain during winter; it is not a current access report.

[Photo: Buidhe / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Views_from_the_road_up_to_Amabilis_Mountain_%2830_December_2024%29_2.jpg) · [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the road climbing Amabilis Mountain](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/amabilis-mountain.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 48 · WA

Central Cascades · Washington

### Amabilis Mountain

Kachess Lake, the I-90 valley, and layered Central Cascade ridges

Feature

Amabilis Mountain

Road relationship

Road climbs Amabilis Mountain and ends below its summit

Exact line

5.2 mi

Route high

4,503 ft

Source identity

#4314 · 673 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Dec 15, 2025

The route climbs Amabilis Mountain and ends just below its named summit. The upper road opens over the I-90 valley and the surrounding ridgelines.

Plan before travel The source record lists a seasonal closure. Check current Forest Service alerts, snow, gate, weather, and motor-vehicle maps before travel.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-121.30021&south=47.28460&east=-121.24635&north=47.30895&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/washington/trails/4314-amabilis-mountain)[Forest Service Amabilis Mountain road record](https://apps.fs.usda.gov/arcx/rest/services/EDW/EDW_RoadBasic_01/MapServer/0/query?where=id%3D%274822000%27%20AND%20admin_org%3D%27061703%27&outFields=id%2Cname%2Cadmin_org%2Croute_status%2Coper_maint_level%2Copenforuseto%2Cglobalid&returnGeometry=false&f=pjson)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1515841&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okanogan-wenatchee/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of the Cleman Mountain ridge road](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/cleman-mountain-ridge-road.webp)

LOCAL-HIGH RIDGE 49 · WA

Yakima Rim · Washington

### Cleman Mountain Ridge Road

The Cascade crest across the Yakima valley and open shrub-steppe ridges

Feature

Cleman Mountain

Road relationship

Ridge road passes below Cleman Mountain's mapped summit and continues to its radio-tower viewpoint

Exact line

13.9 mi

Route high

5,113 ft

Source identity

#4583 · 1,425 points

Source snapshot

Open · Oct 1, 2024

The ridge road passes below Cleman Mountain's mapped summit and continues to its radio-tower viewpoint. The Cascade crest fills the western horizon from the exposed high line.

Plan before travel Use only signed Green Dot and public roads, carry the required pass where it applies, and obey the terminal no-vehicle sign. Check the current WDFW map before travel.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-121.00037&south=46.75097&east=-120.65066&north=46.91048&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/washington/scout-routes/4583-cleman-mountain-ridge-road)[WDFW Green Dot road rules](https://wdfw.wa.gov/about/wdfw-lands/green-dot)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1517849&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://wdfw.wa.gov/about/wdfw-lands/green-dot)

![USGS topographic map of the spur to Funk Mountain Lookout](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/funk-mountain-lookout.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 50 · WA

Okanogan Highlands · Washington

### Funk Mountain Lookout

A clear lookout horizon over the Okanogan Highlands

Feature

Funk Mountain

Road relationship

Spur reaches Funk Mountain Lookout on the summit

Exact line

4.8 mi

Route high

5,058 ft

Source identity

#4588 · 501 points

Source snapshot

Open · Oct 3, 2024

The spur reaches Funk Mountain Lookout on the named summit. The tower site clears the forest for a long Okanogan horizon.

Plan before travel The final rocks are rough and exposed. Use four-wheel drive and clearance, check current forest alerts, and do not rely on the steep, deteriorated tower stairs for the view.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-119.80011&south=48.59267&east=-119.72012&north=48.62793&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/washington/scout-routes/4588-funk-mountain)[Okanogan-Wenatchee Forest maps and motor-use guides](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okanogan-wenatchee/maps-guides)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1519851&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okanogan-wenatchee/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of the spur to Bonney Butte](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/bonney-butte-road.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 52 · OR

Mount Hood · Oregon

### Bonney Butte Road

Mount Hood, Mount Jefferson, and the Three Sisters beyond the raptor ridge

Feature

Bonney Butte

Road relationship

Spur climbs Bonney Butte to the former lookout site

Exact line

0.5 mi

Route high

5,603 ft

Source identity

#2684 · 74 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Aug 15, 2025

The spur climbs Bonney Butte to the former lookout and HawkWatch site. Mount Hood and the east Cascade ridges frame the horizon.

Plan before travel The motorized spur is closed from August 15 through November 1 for raptor migration, and the access road is usually closed in winter. Check the current MVUM, gate, weather, snow, and forest alerts.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-121.60355&south=45.25860&east=-121.57903&north=45.27011&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/oregon/trails/2684-bonney-butte-road)[Mt. Hood Forest maps and motor-use guides](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/mthood/maps-guides)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1138425&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/mthood/alerts)

![Black-and-white 1942 photograph of the tall steel fire tower on Desolation Butte.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/desolation-butte-lookout-960.webp)

Archival feature portrait The Desolation Butte fire tower in Whitman National Forest, photographed in 1942. The 1942 photograph identifies the Desolation Butte fire tower; it does not depict the modern summit panorama.

[Photo: USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Region](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Lookout_Tower_Desolation_Butte%2C_Whitman_National_Forest%2C_OR_1942_%2822761613675%29.jpg) · [Public domain](https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of Forest Road 10103 to Desolation Butte Lookout](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/desolation-butte-lookout.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 53 · OR

Blue Mountains · Oregon

### Desolation Butte Lookout

An unequaled Blue Mountains horizon from a staffed fire lookout

Feature

Desolation Butte

Road relationship

Forest Road 10103 ends at Desolation Butte Lookout

Exact line

1.3 mi

Route high

7,007 ft

Source identity

#4085 · 39 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jul 5, 2024

Forest Road 10103 ends at Desolation Butte's staffed lookout, high above the Blue Mountains. The exact summit road occupies open local high ground.

Plan before travel Use high clearance, check Umatilla alerts and current road conditions, and do not camp at the staffed tower without permission. An MVUM designation does not prove passability.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-118.67572&south=44.83954&east=-118.64595&north=44.85361&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/oregon/scout-routes/4085-desolation-butte-lookout)[Umatilla Forest maps and motor-use guides](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/umatilla/maps-guides)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1140921&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/umatilla/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of the road to Castle Butte Lookout](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/castle-butte-lookout-idaho.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 54 · ID

Clearwater Mountains · Idaho

### Castle Butte Lookout

Selway-Bitterroot, Seven Devils, Great Burn, and Clearwater canyon country

Feature

Castle Butte

Road relationship

Spur ends below Castle Butte Lookout at the Castle Butte summit complex

Exact line

1.6 mi

Route high

6,651 ft

Source identity

#4273 · 105 points

Source snapshot

Open · Aug 9, 2024

The spur finishes below Castle Butte Lookout on its rocky summit. The view opens to the Selway-Bitterroot, Seven Devils, Great Burn, and Clearwater canyons.

Plan before travel The Lolo Motorway approach is remote, rough, and without services, cell coverage, or water. Use a high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle and check windfall, washouts, and current forest alerts.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-115.23973&south=46.43078&east=-115.19879&north=46.44958&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/idaho/scout-routes/4273-castle-butte-lookout)[USDA Castle Butte Lookout guide](https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234325)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D378996&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r01/nezperce-clearwater/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of the narrow road to Twin Peaks Lookout](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/twin-peaks-lookout-idaho.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 55 · ID

Salmon-Challis · Idaho

### Twin Peaks Lookout

Salmon-Challis high country and the Continental Divide from an active lookout

Feature

Twin Peaks

Road relationship

Narrow summit road reaches Twin Peaks Lookout

Exact line

2.3 mi

Route high

10,331 ft

Source identity

#342 · 172 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jul 14, 2023

The narrow road reaches Twin Peaks Lookout above Challis. The active fire lookout overlooks Salmon-Challis country to the Continental Divide.

Plan before travel This exposed single-track road has 11 hairpins and climbs above 10,000 feet. Do not camp on the spur, and check snow, weather, fire, and current forest alerts before travel.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-114.48830&south=44.58557&east=-114.45511&north=44.60133&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/idaho/scout-routes/342-twin-peaks-lookout)[Forest Service MVUM — Twin Peaks Road 40090](https://apps.fs.usda.gov/arcx/rest/services/EDW/EDW_MVUM_01/MapServer/1/query?where=id%3D%2740090%27%20AND%20forestname%3D%27Salmon-Challis%20National%20Forest%27&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D392535&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/salmon-challis/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of the spur beneath Mann Butte](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/mann-butte.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 62 · WA

Mount Adams · Washington

### Mann Butte

Mount Adams above a high campsite on the butte's shoulder

Feature

Mann Butte

Road relationship

Spur runs beneath Mann Butte to a high viewpoint

Exact line

1.8 mi

Route high

3,719 ft

Source identity

#4007 · 207 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Oct 31, 2025

The spur runs beneath Mann Butte to a high campsite and viewpoint. The route record identifies its broad Mount Adams panorama as a view not to miss.

Plan before travel The source record lists a seasonal closure. Check current Gifford Pinchot alerts, gates, surface conditions, and the MVUM before travel; a legal designation does not prove passability.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-121.66444&south=45.93702&east=-121.63675&north=45.94985&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/washington/trails/4007-mann-butte)[Gifford Pinchot Forest MVUM guide](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/giffordpinchot/maps-guides/motor-vehicle-use-map-mvum)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1522677&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/giffordpinchot/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of Basin Butte Road reaching the historic lookout](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/basin-butte-road.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 68 · ID

Sawtooth Valley · Idaho

### Basin Butte Road

Sawtooth peaks, Stanley Lake, and the Valley Creek plains from Basin Butte

Feature

Basin Butte

Road relationship

Basin Butte Road reaches the historic lookout on Basin Butte

Exact line

15.9 mi

Route high

8,845 ft

Source identity

#5371 · 2,290 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 30, 2025

Basin Butte Road reaches the historic fire lookout on Basin Butte. The summit opens across the Sawtooths, Stanley Lake, and the Valley Creek plains.

Plan before travel The source record lists a seasonal closure even though the MVUM carries a year-round legal designation. Check Salmon-Challis alerts, gates, snow, and surface conditions before travel.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-115.15312&south=44.23305&east=-114.74399&north=44.42816&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/idaho/trails/5371-basin-butte-road)[Salmon-Challis Forest maps and motor-use guides](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/salmon-challis/maps-guides)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D376997&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/salmon-challis/alerts)

![Steel Carey Dome fire lookout and summit cabin beneath broad summer clouds.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/carey-dome-fire-lookout-960.webp)

Named feature portrait Carey Dome's steel lookout stands above the Salmon River Mountains. The photograph identifies the active Carey Dome fire lookout and summit cabin rather than a view from the tower.

[Photo: MattyMtn / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Carey_Dome_-_United_States_Forest_Service_Fire_Lookout.jpg) · [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of Forest Road 50321 climbing Carey Dome](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/carey-dome-fire-lookout.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 69 · ID

Salmon River Mountains · Idaho

### Carey Dome Fire Lookout

Remote Salmon River Mountain country in every direction

Feature

Carey Dome

Road relationship

Forest Road 50321 climbs Carey Dome to the active fire lookout

Exact line

1.7 mi

Route high

7,611 ft

Source identity

#4004 · 17 points

Source snapshot

Open · Aug 19, 2023

Forest Road 50321 climbs Carey Dome to its active fire lookout. The commanding summit view spans the remote Salmon River Mountains.

Plan before travel The rough spur is remote and the tower is seasonally staffed. Check Payette alerts and road conditions, park without blocking operations, and do not assume tower access.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-115.93390&south=45.37718&east=-115.87198&north=45.40617&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/idaho/scout-routes/4004-carey-dome-fire-lookout)[Payette National Forest Carey Dome Fire Lookout history](https://www.fs.usda.gov/media/111663)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D378911&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/payette/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of the road climbing No Business Mountain](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/no-business-lookout.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 70 · ID

Long Valley · Idaho

### No Business Lookout

Long Valley, Cascade Reservoir, and the Wallowa and Seven Devils horizons

Feature

No Business Mountain

Road relationship

Forest Road 51814 climbs No Business Mountain to the staffed lookout

Exact line

2.5 mi

Route high

7,315 ft

Source identity

#2945 · 148 points

Source snapshot

Open · Sep 28, 2023

Forest Road 51814 climbs No Business Mountain to its staffed lookout. Cascade Reservoir and Long Valley lie below, with the Wallowas and Seven Devils on the far horizon.

Plan before travel The narrow jeep road has rocks and washout gullies, and the tower is staffed in summer. Check Payette alerts and current road conditions, and do not assume tower access.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-116.22776&south=44.75983&east=-116.17820&north=44.78329&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/idaho/scout-routes/2945-no-business-lookout)[Payette National Forest maps and motor-use guides](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/payette/maps-guides)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D387589&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/payette/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of the narrow road to Pinyon Peak Lookout](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/pinyon-peak-lookout.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 71 · ID

Salmon River Mountains · Idaho

### Pinyon Peak Lookout

Salmon River Mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and hidden valleys around the tower

Feature

Pinyon Peak

Road relationship

Forest Road 40005 reaches Pinyon Peak Lookout on the summit

Exact line

1.1 mi

Route high

9,908 ft

Source identity

#2919 · 81 points

Source snapshot

Open · Aug 18, 2023

Forest Road 40005 reaches Pinyon Peak Lookout on the named summit. Salmon River Mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and hidden valleys ring the tower.

Plan before travel The road has narrow switchbacks, parking for only a few vehicles, no camping, and high-elevation snow. Check Salmon-Challis alerts and yield to active lookout operations.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-114.93173&south=44.56544&east=-114.90650&north=44.57742&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/idaho/scout-routes/2919-pinyon-peak-lookout)[Forest Service MVUM — Pinyon Peak Road 40005](https://apps.fs.usda.gov/arcx/rest/services/EDW/EDW_MVUM_01/MapServer/1/query?where=id%3D%2740005%27%20AND%20forestname%3D%27Salmon-Challis%20National%20Forest%27&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D388549&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/salmon-challis/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of Forest Road 446 climbing Snowbank Mountain](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/snowbank-mountain-lookout.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 72 · ID

West Mountains · Idaho

### Snowbank Mountain Lookout

Lake Cascade, the Seven Devils, and Salmon River ranges below the West Mountains crest

Feature

Snowbank Mountain

Road relationship

Forest Road 446 climbs Snowbank Mountain

Exact line

12.4 mi

Route high

8,307 ft

Source identity

#2942 · 793 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 15, 2025

Forest Road 446 climbs Snowbank Mountain, the high point of the West Mountains. Lake Cascade, the Seven Devils, and the Salmon River ranges spread out below.

Plan before travel The MVUM season is June 1 through November 15, but the route source still records a closure. Check the gate and Boise alerts, and stay outside the summit communications facilities.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-116.17136&south=44.38223&east=-116.01316&north=44.45755&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/idaho/scout-routes/2942-snowbank-mountain-lookout)[Boise National Forest Snowbank area guide](https://www.fs.usda.gov/media/113863)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D390759&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/boise/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of Forest Road 557 climbing Weitas Butte](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/weitas-butte-lookout.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 73 · ID

Clearwater Mountains · Idaho

### Weitas Butte Lookout

Nez Perce-Clearwater forest and ridges around a remote Lolo Motorway summit

Feature

Weitas Butte

Road relationship

Forest Road 557 climbs Weitas Butte to the lookout

Exact line

3.6 mi

Route high

5,961 ft

Source identity

#4272 · 166 points

Source snapshot

Open · Aug 9, 2024

Forest Road 557 climbs Weitas Butte to its 53-foot lookout. Expansive Nez Perce-Clearwater forest and ridge views surround the summit.

Plan before travel The unmaintained spur is steep and washout-prone, and its Lolo Motorway approach is remote. Check snow, windfall, and forest alerts; the unsafe closed tower is not part of the visit.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-115.52398&south=46.43091&east=-115.41578&north=46.48061&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/idaho/scout-routes/4272-weitas-butte-lookout)[Nez Perce-Clearwater Forest maps and motor-use guides](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r01/nezperce-clearwater/maps-guides)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D392987&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r01/nezperce-clearwater/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of Forest Road 583 climbing Bear Valley Mountain](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/bear-valley-lookout.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 74 · ID

Salmon River Mountains · Idaho

### Bear Valley Lookout

A full-circle Salmon River country horizon from Bear Valley Mountain

Feature

Bear Valley Mountain

Road relationship

Forest Road 583 climbs Bear Valley Mountain to the 1914 lookout

Exact line

4.8 mi

Route high

8,286 ft

Source identity

#763 · 481 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Jul 1, 2022

Forest Road 583 climbs Bear Valley Mountain to the 1914 lookout. The summit gives a full-circle view across Salmon River country.

Plan before travel The source status report is old, and snowdrifts or fallen trees can persist into July. Check Boise alerts and current road conditions, and do not enter the disused tower.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-115.45818&south=44.41055&east=-115.32945&north=44.47183&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/idaho/scout-routes/763-bear-valley-lookout)[Boise National Forest maps and motor-use guides](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/boise/maps-guides)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D377203&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/boise/alerts)

![A pickup truck crossing pale granite slickrock near Shuteye Peak beneath scattered conifers.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/6s59-shuteye-peak-960.webp)

Exact route scene Granite slickrock on the route near Shuteye Peak. The camera location is about 30 meters from the frozen Shuteye Peak route line; the visible vehicle does not imply endorsement.

[Photo: Guywelch2000 / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Toyota_Tacoma_Double_Cab_Shuteye_Peak.jpg) · [CC0 1.0](https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the exact 6S59 route to Shuteye Peak](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/6s59-shuteye-peak.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 12 · CA

Sierra Nevada · California

### 6S59 — Shuteye Peak

Yosemite country, Bass Lake, the Sierra crest, and the Central Valley

Feature

Shuteye Peak

Road relationship

Road reaches Shuteye Peak's granite summit

Exact line

6.5 mi

Route high

8,353 ft

Source identity

#2170 · 468 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jun 12, 2026

The exact route reaches the granite summit. The final section opens above the trees and ends beside the lookout site.

Plan before travel This is a steep mountain road with rock obstacles. Check Sierra National Forest alerts, fire restrictions, and the current route report.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-119.49231&south=37.34301&east=-119.41604&north=37.38342&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/california/trails/2170-6s59-shuteye-peak)[Forest Service MVUM — Shuteye Peak OHV Route 06S059](https://apps.fs.usda.gov/arcx/rest/services/EDW/EDW_MVUM_01/MapServer/1/query?where=id%3D%2706S059%27%20AND%20forestname%3D%27Sierra%20National%20Forest%27&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D253581&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r05/sierra/alerts)

![Topographic route map for Greenie Peak in New Mexico](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/greenie-peak.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 14 · NM

Sangre de Cristo Mountains · New Mexico

### Greenie Peak

High meadows, the Red River valley, and the northern Sangre de Cristo range

Feature

Greenie Peak

Road relationship

Road crosses the upper slope of Greenie Peak

Exact line

5.9 mi

Route high

11,223 ft

Source identity

#1587 · 637 points

Source snapshot

Partially Open · Jun 13, 2026

The road crosses Greenie Peak's upper slope below the summit after a 2,000-foot climb. High meadows open above the Red River valley and the northern Sangre de Cristo range.

Plan before travel Use the current Carson National Forest MVUM. A historic travel decision changed motor access on some roads in the Greenie Peak area.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-105.44116&south=36.71818&east=-105.34440&north=36.76987&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/new-mexico/trails/1587-greenie-peak)[Forest Service MVUM guidance](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/maps-guides)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D906737&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)

![Topographic route map for Custer Peak in South Dakota](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/custer-peak.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 15 · SD

Black Hills · South Dakota

### Custer Peak

Pine ridges and open prairie beyond the northern Black Hills

Feature

Custer Peak Lookout

Road relationship

Road loops around Custer Peak Lookout

Exact line

9.4 mi

Route high

6,688 ft

Source identity

#2580 · 286 points

Source snapshot

Open · May 19, 2025

The route loops around the summit complex at Custer Peak and reaches the stone fire lookout.

Plan before travel High clearance is recommended. Check Black Hills National Forest alerts and seasonal road conditions.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-103.75423&south=44.22659&east=-103.68493&north=44.25969&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/south-dakota/scout-routes/2580-custer-peak)[Black Hills National Forest lookout history](https://www.fs.usda.gov/media/62859)[Forest Fire Lookout Association coordinate](https://firelookout.org/lookouts/us/sd/)

![Topographic route map for Reddish Knob in Virginia](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/reddish-knob.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 16 · VA

Shenandoah Mountain · Virginia

### Reddish Knob

A wide Appalachian horizon across Virginia and West Virginia

Feature

Reddish Knob

Road relationship

Route begins at the Reddish Knob summit

Exact line

7.4 mi

Route high

4,392 ft

Source identity

#1654 · 490 points

Source snapshot

Open · May 3, 2024

The mapped route starts on the summit. This is the most direct drive-up mountain top in the set.

Plan before travel One approach is paved and other forest-road approaches are not. Confirm the legal route and closure notices before travel.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-79.34679&south=38.40058&east=-79.20139&north=38.47650&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/virginia/scout-routes/1654-reddish-knob)[Forest Service MVUM — Reddish Knob Road 85-5](https://apps.fs.usda.gov/arcx/rest/services/EDW/EDW_MVUM_01/MapServer/1/query?where=id%3D%2785-5%27%20AND%20forestname%3D%27George%20Washington%20and%20Jefferson%20National%20Forest%27&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1486547&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/gwj/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of the exact Flagpole Knob route](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/flagpole-knob.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 17 · VA

Blue Ridge · Virginia

### Flagpole Knob

Layered Blue Ridge folds above the Shenandoah Valley

Feature

Flagpole Knob

Road relationship

Road crosses the Flagpole Knob summit

Exact line

4.0 mi

Route high

4,385 ft

Source identity

#2349 · 274 points

Source snapshot

Open · Aug 16, 2025

The route crosses the named summit coordinate and follows open ridge ground before its descent.

Plan before travel Mud and ruts can change the road. Do not make a bypass around a wet or damaged section.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-79.24068&south=38.47544&east=-79.15743&north=38.51887&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/virginia/trails/2349-flagpole-knob)[Forest Service MVUM — Flagpole Road 85A](https://apps.fs.usda.gov/arcx/rest/services/EDW/EDW_MVUM_01/MapServer/1/query?where=id%3D%2785A%27%20AND%20forestname%3D%27George%20Washington%20and%20Jefferson%20National%20Forest%27&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1492940&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/gwj/alerts)

![Historic mountain panorama from Glacier Mountain toward Grays Peak and surrounding Colorado summits.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/saints-john-glacier-mountain-960.webp)

Historic summit view A historic view of Grays Peak from Glacier Mountain's summit. The historic photograph was made from Glacier Mountain's summit; it is context for the Saints John destination, not present-day road conditions.

[Photo: Historic photograph by James Collier, New York Public Library](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Gray%27s_Peak_from_the_summit_of_Glacier_Mountain,_by_James_Collier.jpg) · [Public domain](https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the exact Saints John route beside Glacier Mountain](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/saints-john-glacier-mountain.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 24 · CO

Front Range · Colorado

### Saints John — Glacier Mountain

A high alpine ridge beside Glacier Mountain above Montezuma

Feature

Glacier Mountain

Road relationship

Road climbs the shoulder below Glacier Mountain

Exact line

7.3 mi

Route high

12,518 ft

Source identity

#443 · 999 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jun 14, 2026

The exact Saints John centerline climbs the shoulder below Glacier Mountain. The named summit rises directly above the road's local-high section.

Plan before travel The July 3, 2026 gate sheet listed Saints John Road 275 as open. The seasonal closure is November 23 through May 20 or until the road is dry.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-105.96464&south=39.50750&east=-105.79642&north=39.59397&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/colorado/trails/443-saints-john)[White River National Forest / Dillon Ranger District Saints John Road guide](https://fdrd.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Saints-John-Rd-FDR-275-rev-03.2022.pdf)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D202878&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://fdrd.org/resources/)

![USGS topographic map of the Harquahala Mountain road to the summit](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/harquahala-mountain-summit-road.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 37 · AZ

Sonoran Desert · Arizona

### Harquahala Mountain Summit Road

A 360-degree Sonoran Desert panorama and the Eagletail Mountains

Feature

Harquahala Mountain

Road relationship

Road reaches the Harquahala Mountain summit

Exact line

10.5 mi

Route high

5,675 ft

Source identity

#78 · 500 points

Source snapshot

Open · May 17, 2026

The rugged backcountry byway reaches the summit coordinate. BLM identifies the top as the highest point in southwest Arizona and the site of the historic observatory.

Plan before travel BLM requires high clearance and four-wheel drive. The agency recommends November through April because summer heat can reach 115 degrees; carry water and check weather and fire restrictions.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-113.43435&south=33.70942&east=-113.21590&north=33.83048&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/arizona/trails/78-harquahala-mountain-summit-road)[BLM backcountry byway guide](https://www.blm.gov/visit/harquahala-mountain-backcountry-byway)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D5572&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)

![USGS topographic map of the Mount Antero road below the summit](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/mount-antero.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 38 · CO

Sawatch Range · Colorado

### Mount Antero

The Arkansas River Valley, Baldwin Gulch, and the high Sawatch skyline

Feature

Mount Antero

Road relationship

Upper switchbacks cross Mount Antero's shoulder below the summit

Exact line

7.1 mi

Route high

13,728 ft

Source identity

#390 · 922 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Oct 31, 2025

The upper switchbacks climb above treeline across Mount Antero's shoulder. The summit remains above the route high point and requires a separate foot ascent.

Plan before travel This narrow mining road is steep, rough, exposed, and seasonal. Check the current MVUM, Salida Ranger District alerts, weather, and snow before entering the upper switchbacks.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-106.33564&south=38.65116&east=-106.20222&north=38.72059&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/colorado/trails/390-mount-antero)[Pike-San Isabel Forest maps and motor-use guides](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/psicc/maps-guides)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D189455&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/psicc/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of the Sierra Buttes upper road and summit](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/sierra-buttes-lookout.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 39 · CA

Northern Sierra Nevada · California

### Sierra Buttes Lookout

Lakes Basin and a northern Sierra panorama that spans several counties

Feature

Sierra Buttes

Road relationship

Road reaches the upper trailhead below Sierra Buttes

Exact line

4.1 mi

Route high

7,915 ft

Source identity

#2720 · 405 points

Source snapshot

Open · May 31, 2026

The high-clearance route reaches the upper trailhead below Sierra Buttes. A separate hike continues to the decommissioned lookout tower.

Plan before travel This is a seasonal high-country road and the final lookout approach is on foot. Check Tahoe National Forest alerts, snow, wildfire, and current motor-vehicle designations before travel.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-120.70207&south=39.58132&east=-120.62136&north=39.62278&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/california/trails/2720-sierra-buttes-lookout)[Tahoe National Forest](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r05/tahoe)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1659661&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r05/tahoe/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of the Black Mountain four-wheel-drive road to its summit](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/black-mountain-lookout-wyoming.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 40 · WY

Laramie Mountains · Wyoming

### Black Mountain Lookout

Laramie Peak and the broad valleys of the southern Laramie Mountains

Feature

Black Mountain

Road relationship

Road reaches Black Mountain's fire lookout summit

Exact line

3.5 mi

Route high

7,982 ft

Source identity

#5077 · 557 points

Source snapshot

Open · May 25, 2026

Forest Road 667 reaches the named summit coordinate and the fire lookout. The final rocky climb ends at a small parking area below the tower catwalk.

Plan before travel The Forest Service describes a rugged 3.5-mile four-wheel-drive road. Stay on FR 667, respect adjacent private property, and confirm road and lookout access with the Douglas Ranger District.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-105.38864&south=42.30720&east=-105.32957&north=42.33632&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/wyoming/scout-routes/5077-black-mountain-lookout)[Forest Service Black Mountain road record](https://www.fs.usda.gov/media/67344)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1598217&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/mbrtb/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of Road 30340 across Shadow Mountain](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/shadow-mountain-road-wyoming.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 46 · WY

Jackson Hole · Wyoming

### Shadow Mountain Road

The Teton Range across Jackson Hole and the Gros Ventre Mountains behind

Feature

Shadow Mountain

Road relationship

Road 30340 crosses the summit of Shadow Mountain

Exact line

7.9 mi

Route high

8,257 ft

Source identity

#8720 · 347 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 30, 2025

Road 30340 crosses the summit of Shadow Mountain. Open high ridgelines face the Gros Ventre Mountains and the Teton Range.

Plan before travel Wet roads become difficult. Follow licensed-vehicle, food-storage, camping, and fire rules, and check the current Forest Service alerts before travel.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-110.65443&south=43.68815&east=-110.54130&north=43.74266&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/wyoming/trails/8720-shadow-mountain-road)[Forest Service Shadow Mountain area guide](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/bridger-teton/recreation/shadow-mountainditch-creek-area)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1602808&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/bridger-teton/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of the four-wheel-drive road over Red Cone](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/red-cone-colorado.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 56 · CO

Front Range · Colorado

### Red Cone

Exposed Continental Divide ridges above a dramatic one-way descent

Feature

Red Cone

Road relationship

Road climbs onto Red Cone's summit before the one-way descent

Exact line

6.0 mi

Route high

12,799 ft

Source identity

#432 · 531 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jun 20, 2026

The road climbs onto the 12,799-foot summit of Red Cone, then follows the exposed Continental Divide crest before its one-way descent. The route record documents above-treeline views for miles.

Plan before travel This is an advanced high-clearance, low-range route with a steep one-way summit descent. Snow timing controls access; check the current district alerts, weather, and road status.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-105.87716&south=39.47368&east=-105.74272&north=39.54283&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/colorado/trails/432-red-cone)[Forest Service Dillon road and gate sheet](https://www.fs.usda.gov/media/243971)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D182393&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/psicc/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of Forest Road 126C to Waucheesi Mountain](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/waucheesi-mountain.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 58 · TN

Southern Appalachians · Tennessee

### Waucheesi Mountain

A full-circle southern Appalachian panorama from an open summit meadow

Feature

Waucheesi Mountain

Road relationship

Forest Road 126C climbs onto Waucheesi Mountain's summit meadow

Exact line

1.6 mi

Route high

3,679 ft

Source identity

#2001 · 247 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jun 19, 2026

Forest Road 126C climbs onto Waucheesi Mountain's open summit meadow. The route record documents an unobstructed full-circle view across the southern Appalachians.

Plan before travel The MVUM lists year-round legal access, but summit weather and surface conditions can differ from the valley. Check Tellico and Cherokee National Forest alerts before travel.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-84.23217&south=35.27215&east=-84.19266&north=35.29365&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/tennessee/scout-routes/2001-waucheesi-mountain)[Cherokee Forest maps and motor-use guides](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/cherokee/maps-guides)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1327334&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/cherokee/alerts)

![Wind-shaped spruce forest and open summit terrain at Spruce Knob, West Virginia.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/spruce-knob-west-virginia-960.webp)

Named summit destination Spruce Knob at the highest point in West Virginia. The camera location is within the Spruce Knob summit destination and close to the frozen road line; the road itself is not claimed to be visible.

[Photo: Ken Lund / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Spruce_Knob,_West_Virginia_(14311593828).jpg) · [CC BY-SA 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the road reaching Spruce Knob](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/spruce-knob-west-virginia.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 59 · WV

Allegheny Mountains · West Virginia

### Spruce Knob

West Virginia's highest terrain and folded Allegheny ridges from the tower

Feature

Spruce Knob

Road relationship

Road reaches Spruce Knob's summit parking area below the observation tower

Exact line

26.8 mi

Route high

4,849 ft

Source identity

#4134 · 1,379 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jul 13, 2024

The road reaches the base of Spruce Knob, West Virginia's 4,863-foot high point. A short walk continues to the observation tower above the Allegheny ridges.

Plan before travel The north approach is paved, while the southern approach includes a long gravel section. A year-round road designation does not promise snow or ice passability; check current forest alerts.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-79.72107&south=38.58709&east=-79.39545&north=38.75657&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/west-virginia/scout-routes/4134-spruce-knob)[Forest Service Spruce Knob area map](https://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/nfs/files/r09/monongahela/publication/stelprdb5433335%5B1%5D_0.pdf)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1553014&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r09/monongahela/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of the road to Bill Williams Fire Lookout](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/bill-williams-fire-lookout.webp)

NAMED SUMMIT 61 · AZ

Kaibab Plateau · Arizona

### Bill Williams Fire Lookout

Northern Arizona forests and volcanic highlands from a 9,244-foot summit

Feature

Bill Williams Mountain

Road relationship

Road climbs to the fire lookout on Bill Williams Mountain

Exact line

7.1 mi

Route high

9,227 ft

Source identity

#1004 · 592 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jun 9, 2025

The exact road climbs to the fire lookout on Bill Williams Mountain. The route record documents several scenic vantage points along the ascent and an open summit horizon.

Plan before travel The route source reported open in June 2025, not today. Check Kaibab National Forest alerts, fire restrictions, snow, monsoon weather, and the summit gate before travel.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-112.21681&south=35.17674&east=-112.15913&north=35.20817&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/arizona/trails/1004-bill-williams-fire-lookout)[Kaibab National Forest Bill Williams Mountain guide](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/kaibab/recreation/trails/bill-williams-mountain-trail-21)[USGS National Map summit record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D26331&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r03/kaibab/alerts)

TOP EDGES

## 20 roads arrive at a lookout, saddle, pass, rim, cliff, or gorge.

A cliff or rim is not always the highest point in the wider landscape. It is still local high ground with clear relief below the route.

![Snow-covered Willard Peak rising above the northern Wasatch foothills.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/inspiration-point-utah-960.webp)

Nearby mountain context Willard Peak in the northern Wasatch, near the Inspiration Point route area. Willard Peak is in the same northern Wasatch massif; this is not a photograph of Inspiration Point.

[Photo: USDA Forest Service photo by Mark Muir](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Willard_Peak_on_a_winter_day_(11932891624).jpg) · [Public domain](https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the exact Northern Utah route to Inspiration Point](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/inspiration-point-utah.webp)

CLIFF EDGE 01 · UT

Wasatch Front · Utah

### Inspiration Point

Great Salt Lake, the Wasatch Front, and cities from Brigham City to Salt Lake

Feature

Inspiration Point

Road relationship

Road ends at Inspiration Point

Exact line

12.3 mi

Route high

9,403 ft

Source identity

#2884 · 1,715 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 15, 2025

The exact road ends beside the USGS-mapped cliff at Inspiration Point. Its terminal viewpoint sits above Willard Basin and passes the relief screen with 98% of sampled terrain within one mile below the route observer.

Plan before travel The route record lists a July 15 through November 15 season and a one-way upper section. Check the current Forest Service MVUM, gate, snow, fire, and road alerts before travel.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-112.08333&south=41.37267&east=-111.84454&north=41.49202&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/scout-routes/2884-inspiration-point)[2025 Logan–Ogden Forest Service MVUM](https://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/nfs/files/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/publication/LoganOgdenMVUM2025.pdf)[USGS National Map cliff record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1442043&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/alerts)

![Grandview Peak rising across a forested section of the Wasatch Range.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/sessions-mountain-road-960.webp)

Named-view context Grandview Peak, a horizon landmark from the Sessions Mountain area. Grandview Peak is a documented horizon landmark from the Sessions Mountain area; this was not photographed on the route.

[Photo: summitcheese / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Grandview_Peak.jpg) · [CC BY-SA 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of Sessions Mountain Road and its rocky ridge overlook](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/sessions-mountain-road.webp)

SCENIC LOOKOUT 05 · UT

Wasatch Front · Utah

### Sessions Mountain Road

Salt Lake and Morgan valleys with Grandview Peak across the range

Feature

Rocky-knoll overlook on Sessions Mountain Road

Road relationship

Sessions Mountain Road reaches its rocky-knoll overlook above the Salt Lake and Morgan valleys

Exact line

4.3 mi

Route high

8,492 ft

Source identity

#5053 · 434 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 1, 2025

Sessions Mountain Road reaches the route record's rocky-knoll overlook. Salt Lake and Morgan valleys open on opposite sides, with Grandview Peak across the range.

Plan before travel The route record lists a July 1 through November 1 season and notes steep late-route dips, erosion, and a bypass. Check the current gate and MVUM.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-111.84794&south=40.87046&east=-111.70811&north=40.94091&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/scout-routes/5053-sessions-mountain-road)[Forest Service Salt Lake MVUM](https://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/nfs/files/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/publication/SaltLakeMVUM.pdf)[Route record for the ridge overlook](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/scout-routes/5053-sessions-mountain-road)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/alerts)

![Gravel road and parked off-road vehicles on a high Oquirrh Mountain ridge at Copper Mine Overlook.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/copper-mine-overlook-960.webp)

Exact viewpoint The gravel ridge road at Copper Mine Overlook in the Oquirrh Mountains. The geotagged photograph was made at the Kennecott copper-mine overlook associated with the route endpoint.

[Photo: runt35 / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Kennecott_Overlook_-_panoramio.jpg) · [CC BY 3.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of Middle Canyon Road to the Copper Mine Overlook](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/copper-mine-overlook.webp)

SCENIC LOOKOUT 07 · UT

Oquirrh Mountains · Utah

### Middle Canyon — Copper Mine Overlook

Tooele Valley, Salt Lake Valley, and the open-pit Bingham Canyon Mine below

Feature

Copper Mine Overlook

Road relationship

Road ends at Copper Mine Overlook

Exact line

4.0 mi

Route high

9,007 ft

Source identity

#359 · 220 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 1, 2025

The exact route ends at the documented overlook. The endpoint is above 95% of sampled terrain within one mile and has more than 2,600 feet of wider relief.

Plan before travel The route record lists an annual November 1 through June 1 canyon closure. Check the county gate, current land-manager information, weather, and mine-area restrictions before travel.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-112.21300&south=40.47751&east=-112.15749&north=40.50565&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/scout-routes/359-middle-canyon-roadcopper-mine-overlook)[Forest Service Salt Lake MVUM](https://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/nfs/files/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/publication/SaltLakeMVUM.pdf)[Route record for the terminal overlook](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/scout-routes/359-middle-canyon-roadcopper-mine-overlook)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/alerts)

![A high meadow ending at the pale limestone rim of Ashley Gorge beneath a broad sky.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/ashley-gorge-viewpoint-960.webp)

Named feature The high meadow and limestone rim above Ashley Gorge. The photograph identifies the meadow and limestone rim directly above Ashley Gorge.

[Photo: USDA Forest Service photo by Parker Hopkins](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ashley_Gorge_Ashley_NF_Parker_Hopkins_(51769728106).jpg) · [Public domain](https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of Ashley Gorge Viewpoint and its cliff-edge loop](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/ashley-gorge-viewpoint.webp)

PASS + GORGE 09 · UT

Uinta Basin · Utah

### Ashley Gorge Viewpoint

Both directions through Ashley Gorge, with Vernal far below

Feature

Ashley Gorge cliff edge

Road relationship

Loop follows the Ashley Gorge cliff edge

Exact line

1.8 mi

Route high

8,595 ft

Source identity

#3818 · 193 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jun 5, 2026

This is a gorge exception, not a summit claim. The exact loop parallels the cliff edge, and the route record ties the exposure and views both up and down the gorge directly to the drivable line.

Plan before travel The nontechnical loop can feel exposed and overgrowth can narrow the road. Confirm the current Ashley National Forest MVUM and alerts; do not use a frozen open status as a day-of-travel report.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-109.64573&south=40.65703&east=-109.62023&north=40.66992&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/scout-routes/3818-ashley-gorge-viewpoint)[Ashley National Forest Vernal MVUM](https://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/nfs/files/legacy-media/ashley/Vernal%20MVUM%202022.pdf)[Route record for the cliff-edge loop](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/scout-routes/3818-ashley-gorge-viewpoint)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/ashley/alerts)

![USGS topographic map of Trail Hollow West on its exposed high rim](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/trail-hollow-west-lightning-ridge.webp)

HIGH RIM 41 · UT

Western Uintas · Utah

### Trail Hollow West — Lightning Ridge

A cliff-edged Uinta basin ringed by 10,000-foot summits

Feature

Trail Hollow West cliff-rim overlooks

Road relationship

Trail Hollow West climbs onto the route record's exposed cliff rim

Exact line

4.0 mi

Route high

10,104 ft

Source identity

#4350 · 282 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jul 12, 2025

The route source calls the trail Trail Hollow West, often called Lightning Ridge, and documents cliff overlooks along the exact line. The terrain screen places the observation point on the exposed high rim above the basin.

Plan before travel This unmaintained ridge road has loose rock, shelf exposure, and rough ledges. Check the current Ashley National Forest MVUM, snow, weather, fire restrictions, and alerts before travel.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-110.94272&south=40.53512&east=-110.90316&north=40.55516&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/scout-routes/4350-trail-hollow-west-lightning-ridge)[Ashley National Forest Duchesne MVUM](https://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/nfs/files/legacy-media/ashley/Duchesne%20MVUM%202022.pdf)[Route record for Trail Hollow West / Lightning Ridge](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/scout-routes/4350-trail-hollow-west-lightning-ridge)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/ashley/alerts)

![Wide view across green Cache Valley toward the Bear River Range.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/millville-canyon-saddle-960.webp)

Signature-landscape context Cache Valley and the Bear River Range near Millville Canyon. The photograph looks across Cache Valley toward the Bear River Range; it was not made from the route-record Saddle viewpoint.

[Photo: David Jolley / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Across_Cache_Valley_at_Bear_River_Range_in_Utah.jpg) · [CC BY-SA 3.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of Millville Canyon Road reaching its high saddle](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/millville-canyon-saddle.webp)

SCENIC SADDLE 66 · UT

Bear River Mountains · Utah

### Millville Canyon — Saddle Viewpoint

Millville to the west and Blacksmith Fork Canyon to the east

Feature

Route-record “Saddle” viewpoint above Millville Canyon

Road relationship

Millville Canyon Road reaches the route record's Saddle viewpoint above the canyon

Exact line

13.7 mi

Route high

8,872 ft

Source identity

#2153 · 359 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 15, 2025

Millville Canyon Road reaches a high saddle above the canyon before crossing the Bear River Mountains. Openings look west over Millville and east into Blacksmith Fork Canyon.

Plan before travel This is a seasonal high-clearance road with a snow gate. Check current forest alerts and the MVUM before travel, and expect rough surfaces beyond the saddle.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-111.84703&south=41.63932&east=-111.62944&north=41.74764&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/trails/2153-millville-canyon)[2025 Logan-Ogden Forest Service MVUM](https://www.fs.usda.gov/sites/nfs/files/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/publication/LoganOgdenMVUM2025.pdf)[Trails Offroad “Saddle” waypoint](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/trails/2153-millville-canyon)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r04/uinta-wasatch-cache/alerts)

![Jagged Seven Devils Mountains beyond the steep forested and basalt walls of Hells Canyon.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/hat-point-960.webp)

Lookout-area view Snake River Canyon and the Seven Devils Mountains from the Hat Point Lookout area. The photograph documents the Snake River Canyon and Seven Devils view from the Hat Point Lookout area.

[Photo: Gary Halvorson, Oregon State Archives](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hells_Canyon_National_Recreation_Area,_Snake_River_Canyon,_Seven_Devils_Mountains,_Hat_Point_Lookout,_Hat_Point_Road_-_DPLA_-_7c12dce7d9490655f7ebfb939de43933.jpg) · [CC BY 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the exact Hat Point route above Hells Canyon](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/hat-point.webp)

SCENIC LOOKOUT 19 · OR

Hells Canyon · Oregon

### Hat Point

The Snake River, Hells Canyon, and Idaho's Seven Devils

Feature

Hat Point Lookout

Road relationship

Road ends at Hat Point Lookout

Exact line

22.9 mi

Route high

6,967 ft

Source identity

#3873 · 609 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jun 12, 2024

The road ends at an 82-foot lookout above one of the deepest river canyons in North America.

Plan before travel The route has steep grades and a seasonal gate. Confirm Forest Road 4240 and Hat Point access before travel.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-116.99353&south=45.36292&east=-116.49922&north=45.59398&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/oregon/scout-routes/3873-hat-point)[Wallowa-Whitman National Forest Hat Point guide](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/wallowa-whitman/recreation/hat-point-trailhead)[Library of Congress HAER Hat Point Fire Lookout Tower record](https://www.loc.gov/item/or0334/?fo=json)

![Snowbanks lining the Steens Mountain rim above the steep green slopes of Kiger Gorge.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/steens-mountain-loop-960.webp)

High-route landmark Kiger Gorge near the top of Steens Mountain. Kiger Gorge is a named landform beside the Steens Mountain high route; the photograph does not show the entire loop road.

[Photo: Gary Halvorson, Oregon State Archives](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Kiger_Gorge,_Steens_Mountain_-_DPLA_-_8ffd0f475c6c433e4380e881fe49c5d0.jpg) · [CC BY 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the exact Steens Mountain Loop and its high rim](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/steens-mountain-loop.webp)

HIGH RIM 22 · OR

Great Basin · Oregon

### Steens Mountain Loop

Glacial gorges falling from the high rim toward the Alvord Desert

Feature

Steens Mountain high rim

Road relationship

Loop reaches the Steens Mountain high rim and gorge overlooks

Exact line

55.7 mi

Route high

9,553 ft

Source identity

#335 · 1,919 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Sep 24, 2021

The loop crosses the high plateau and reaches signed gorge overlooks. Here the top edge is the view, not one isolated summit.

Plan before travel Four seasonal gates control the loop. The full loop is usually open only from early July to mid-October. Verify each gate with BLM.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-119.09451&south=42.57693&east=-118.46873&north=42.88338&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/oregon/scout-routes/335-steens-mountain-loop)[Bureau of Land Management access guide](https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/recreation-activities/oregon-washington/steens-mountain)[Bureau of Land Management Steens guide](https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/recreation-activities/oregon-washington/steens-mountain)

![Mount Rainier above green Cascade foothills, seen from the trail near Sun Top Lookout.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/sun-top-lookout-960.webp)

Final-approach view Mount Rainier fills the view on the final approach to Sun Top Lookout. The photograph was made near 5,000 feet on the trail to Sun Top Lookout, not inside the tower.

[Photo: PhantomEntity / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:FromSunTopLookout.JPG) · [CC BY-SA 2.5](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the exact road to Sun Top Lookout](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/sun-top-lookout.webp)

SCENIC LOOKOUT 25 · WA

Mount Rainier · Washington

### Sun Top Lookout

Mount Rainier, the central Cascades, and a 3,000-foot fall toward the White River

Feature

Sun Top Lookout

Road relationship

Road ends at Sun Top Lookout

Exact line

5.9 mi

Route high

5,252 ft

Source identity

#1901 · 824 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Apr 11, 2026

The exact road ends at the lookout summit. The Forest Service describes a one-lane dirt and rock road to the top, with a half-mile walk when the final gate is closed.

Plan before travel A recreation pass is required. The final gate can close while the lookout is not staffed. Check Mount Baker-Snoqualmie alerts before travel.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-121.64284&south=47.02719&east=-121.53872&north=47.07448&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/washington/trails/1901-sun-top-lookout)[Recreation.gov Sun Top Lookout guide](https://www.recreation.gov/camping/poi/235268)[USGS Sun Top 7.5-minute topographic map](https://prd-tnm.s3.amazonaws.com/StagedProducts/Maps/USTopo/PDF/WA/WA_Sun_Top_20140121_TM_geo.pdf)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/mbs/alerts)

![Dirt road curving through sagebrush across Bethel Ridge, with dry mountain ridges beyond.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/bethel-ridge-960.webp)

Exact ridge-road view The jeep road crosses sagebrush high on Bethel Ridge. The file description places the photographed jeep road on top of Bethel Ridge.

[Photo: Chris Light / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ridge_crests_%28Basin_Sagebrush%29_8121.jpg) · [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the exact Bethel Ridge route](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/bethel-ridge.webp)

HIGH RIM 27 · WA

Eastern Cascades · Washington

### Bethel Ridge

Mount Adams, Rimrock Lake, and the eastern Cascade ridgeline

Feature

Bethel Ridge high road

Road relationship

Road follows Bethel Ridge's measured high ground

Exact line

5.8 mi

Route high

6,172 ft

Source identity

#3930 · 659 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 1, 2025

The exact line starts on its measured 6,172-foot high ground and stays on the open ridge before entering the forest. It is the collection's clearest bridge from an easy scenic road to changing surface conditions.

Plan before travel Water holes, erosion, and snow can change this route. Set a turnaround limit before leaving the ridge viewpoint.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-121.12267&south=46.69989&east=-120.99260&north=46.75932&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/washington/trails/3930-bethel-ridge)[Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest alerts](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okawen/alerts)[Exact route high point and ridge-view record](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/washington/trails/3930-bethel-ridge)

![Snow-striped Olympic peaks beyond dark evergreen ridges and alpine meadow along Obstruction Point Road.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/obstruction-point-road-960.webp)

Exact road view The Olympic interior from Obstruction Point Road. The photograph was made from Obstruction Point Road and shows the Olympic interior.

[Photo: brewbooks / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Obstruction_Point_Road_view_-_Flickr_-_brewbooks.jpg) · [CC BY-SA 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the exact Obstruction Point Road](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/obstruction-point-road.webp)

SCENIC LOOKOUT 28 · WA

Olympic Mountains · Washington

### Obstruction Point Road

Mount Olympus and close subalpine ridges across the Olympic interior

Feature

Obstruction Point

Road relationship

Road ends at Obstruction Point

Exact line

7.7 mi

Route high

6,128 ft

Source identity

#3557 · 812 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Oct 31, 2025

The exact gravel line ends at Obstruction Point. The National Park Service identifies it as the park's highest road and measures the road at 7.8 miles.

Plan before travel The road is narrow, winding, and steep in places. It is not suitable for RVs, trailers, or buses. Check the live NPS road table.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-123.52251&south=47.90595&east=-123.35392&north=47.98124&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/washington/trails/3557-obstruction-point-road)[National Park Service live road conditions](https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/current-road-conditions.htm)[Olympic National Park road and elevation record](https://www.nps.gov/olym/planyourvisit/current-road-conditions.htm)

![Wooden Flag Point fire lookout beneath a deep blue sky and white clouds.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/flag-point-lookout-road-960.webp)

Named feature portrait Flag Point Lookout crowns a rocky rise in Mount Hood National Forest. The camera coordinates coincide with the Flag Point Lookout route feature; the image shows the tower rather than its panorama.

[Photo: USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Region](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Flag_Point_Lookout%2C_Mt_Hood_National_Forest_%2823933684065%29.jpg) · [Public domain](https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the exact Flag Point Lookout Road](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/flag-point-lookout-road.webp)

SCENIC LOOKOUT 29 · OR

Mount Hood · Oregon

### Flag Point Lookout Road

Mount Hood, Mount Adams, Mount Jefferson, and the Three Sisters

Feature

Flag Point Lookout

Road relationship

Road ends beside Flag Point Lookout

Exact line

3.4 mi

Route high

5,639 ft

Source identity

#1931 · 387 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Dec 1, 2025

The exact line ends beside Flag Point Lookout. This is a compact Cascade summit road with a much larger horizon.

Plan before travel The lookout and road can have separate closures. Check Mount Hood National Forest alerts and obey the final gate.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-121.51271&south=45.31108&east=-121.42292&north=45.35316&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/oregon/trails/1931-flag-point-lookout-road)[Forest Service lookout and access guide](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/mthood/recreation/flag-point-lookout)[Mount Hood National Forest lookout record](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/mthood/recreation/flag-point-lookout)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/mthood/alerts)

![Rugged North Cascade ridges with lingering snow above a forested basin near Harts Pass.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/harts-pass-960.webp)

Harts Pass–Slate Peak context Tatie Peak and the North Cascades in the Harts Pass–Slate Peak area. The photograph is cataloged in the Harts Pass–Slate Peak area and identifies Tatie Peak; it is scenic context, not proof of the road surface or exact camera position.

[Photo: Alan Schmierer / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:HART_PASS_-_SLATE_PEAK_(07-19-2022)_okanogan_co,_wa_-01.jpg) · [CC0 1.0](https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the exact Hart’s Pass route](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/harts-pass.webp)

HIGH PASS 32 · WA

North Cascades · Washington

### Hart’s Pass

Deep Slate Creek relief, the Pasayten Wilderness, and the North Cascades skyline

Feature

Hart’s Pass

Road relationship

Road ends at Hart’s Pass

Exact line

12.3 mi

Route high

6,200 ft

Source identity

#4214 · 1,013 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Oct 1, 2025

The exact route ends at federally named Hart’s Pass. The frozen source record describes sustained mountain views and several-hundred-foot road-edge drops.

Plan before travel This road is narrow, exposed, and seasonal. Trailers are prohibited. Confirm the current Forest Service order, fire status, and road repair notices before leaving Mazama.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-120.70524&south=48.63726&east=-120.47538&north=48.73842&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/washington/trails/4214-harts-pass)[Forest Service Hart’s Pass approach](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okanogan-wenatchee/recreation/slate-pass-trailhead)[USGS National Map Gazetteer location](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1520587&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okanogan-wenatchee/alerts)

![Bruneau River far below sheer layered basalt canyon walls beneath warm evening light.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/bruneau-canyon-overlook-960.webp)

Exact overlook view Bruneau Canyon drops sharply below the road-accessible overlook. The photograph looks into Bruneau Canyon from the road-accessible overlook.

[Photo: Bob Wick / Bureau of Land Management](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bruneau_Canyon_Overlook_ID.jpg) · [CC BY 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the exact road ending at Bruneau Canyon Overlook](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/bruneau-canyon-overlook.webp)

CLIFF EDGE 47 · ID

Owyhee Desert · Idaho

### Bruneau Canyon Overlook

An 800-foot canyon wall above the Bruneau River in open high desert

Feature

Bruneau Canyon Overlook

Road relationship

Road ends at Bruneau Canyon Overlook

Exact line

3.1 mi

Route high

3,701 ft

Source identity

#3407 · 93 points

Source snapshot

Open · Mar 16, 2024

The road ends at Bruneau Canyon Overlook. The rim drops 800 feet to the Bruneau River, and the opposite canyon wall stands 1,300 feet away.

Plan before travel This is remote high desert with cattle and a changing dirt surface. Check BLM fire and weather advisories, carry water and recovery gear, and stay at the signed overlook.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-115.68209&south=42.68352&east=-115.61119&north=42.71825&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/idaho/scout-routes/3407-bruneau-canyon-overlook)[BLM overlook and access guide](https://www.blm.gov/visit/bruneau-canyon-overlook)[BLM Bruneau Canyon Overlook record](https://www.blm.gov/visit/bruneau-canyon-overlook)[Gate status source](https://www.blm.gov/idaho/advisories-and-closures)

![USGS topographic map of the road to Steliko Lookout on Steliko Point](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/steliko-lookout-tower.webp)

SCENIC LOOKOUT 51 · WA

Entiat Valley · Washington

### Steliko Lookout Tower

Entiat Valley and Ardenvoir from a restored 1947 lookout

Feature

Steliko Lookout

Road relationship

Road ends at Steliko Lookout on Steliko Point

Exact line

1.7 mi

Route high

2,570 ft

Source identity

#4203 · 157 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Dec 1, 2025

The road ends at Steliko Lookout on Steliko Point. The Forest Service documents clear views down the Entiat Valley and over Ardenvoir.

Plan before travel Vehicle access is for summer and fall, and the source record lists a seasonal closure. Check the current gate, reservation rules, forest alerts, snow, and fire conditions.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-120.36550&south=47.73728&east=-120.33768&north=47.74975&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/washington/trails/4203-steliko-lookout-tower)[Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Steliko Lookout guide](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okanogan-wenatchee/recreation/steliko-lookout)[Forest Service Steliko Lookout record](https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10132083)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r06/okanogan-wenatchee/alerts)

![Colorado River winding through the deep layered red walls of the Grand Canyon below Toroweap Overlook.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/toroweap-960.webp)

Exact overlook view The Colorado River directly below Toroweap Overlook. The photograph looks down from Toroweap Overlook into the Grand Canyon.

[Photo: Ken Lund / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Colorado_River,_Toroweap_Overlook,_Grand_Canyon_National_Park,_Arizona_(66044187).jpg) · [CC BY-SA 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the exact Toroweap route to the Grand Canyon rim](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/toroweap.webp)

CLIFF EDGE 20 · AZ

Grand Canyon · Arizona

### Toroweap

A sheer 3,000-foot drop to the Colorado River

Feature

Toroweap Overlook

Road relationship

Road ends at Toroweap Overlook on the Grand Canyon rim

Exact line

13.8 mi

Route high

5,097 ft

Source identity

#2990 · 1,061 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jun 6, 2026

The route reaches the top edge of the Grand Canyon. The river sits almost directly below the unguarded rim.

Plan before travel An advance permit, park pass, photo ID, and license plate are required. Mud travel is prohibited. Vehicle length is limited.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-113.29451&south=36.17631&east=-112.82784&north=36.42704&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/arizona/trails/2990-toroweap)[National Park Service permits and conditions](https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/tuweep.htm)[National Park Service Tuweep guide](https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/tuweep.htm)

![Gunsight Butte rising from Lake Powell, with sandstone mesas and Navajo Mountain in the distance.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/alstrom-point-960.webp)

Exact viewpoint view Gunsight Butte and Navajo Mountain from Alstrom Point above Lake Powell. The photograph looks from Alstrom Point toward Gunsight Butte and Navajo Mountain.

[Photo: National Park Service photo by Brent and Dawn Davis](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:View_of_Gunsight_Butte_and_Navajo_Mountain.jpg) · [Public domain](https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the exact Alstrom Point route above Lake Powell](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/alstrom-point.webp)

CLIFF EDGE 21 · UT

Glen Canyon · Utah

### Alstrom Point

Gunsight Butte, Lake Powell, and a thousand-foot sandstone edge

Feature

Alstrom Point

Road relationship

Road ends at Alstrom Point's exposed mesa edge

Exact line

6.9 mi

Route high

4,684 ft

Source identity

#3434 · 500 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jun 12, 2026

The exact centerline ends at the exposed top of Romana Mesa. The overlook has no rail and the rock drops without warning.

Plan before travel Use high-clearance four-wheel drive for the final miles. Do not enter after rain. Leave enough time to return before dark.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-111.48894&south=37.04102&east=-111.29005&north=37.14679&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/utah/trails/3434-alstrom-point)[National Park Service road and safety guide](https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/driving-to-alstrom-point.htm)[National Park Service drive guide](https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/driving-to-alstrom-point.htm)

![USGS topographic map of the exact Schofield Pass route above Devil's Punchbowl gorge](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/schofield-pass.webp)

PASS + GORGE 23 · CO

Elk Mountains · Colorado

### Schofield Pass

Waterfalls, vertical canyon walls, and the Elk Mountains

Feature

Schofield Pass

Road relationship

Road crosses Schofield Pass and enters Devil's Punchbowl gorge

Exact line

4.6 mi

Route high

10,690 ft

Source identity

#1914 · 374 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Nov 22, 2025

The route climbs to the pass and then enters a narrow cliff-lined gorge. This is the most exposed road in the set.

Plan before travel The Forest Service rates Road 317 as most difficult. Do not use this road as a first exposure drive. Turn around before the shelf if the vehicle or driver does not fit.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-107.13187&south=39.00659&east=-107.01185&north=39.06874&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/colorado/trails/1914-schofield-pass)[Colorado COTREX Schofield Pass Road record](https://trails.colorado.gov/roads/schofield-pass-9901)[USGS National Map pass record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D175587&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/whiteriver/alerts)

![Broad alpine valley and rugged Talkeetna Mountain slopes viewed west from Hatcher Pass.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/hatcher-pass-road-960.webp)

Named pass view Looking west through Hatcher Pass in the Talkeetna Mountains. The photograph looks west from Hatcher Pass near Summit Lake and the road corridor; it is not exact route-line proof.

[Photo: An Errant Knight / Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:West_down_Hatcher_Pass_in_Alaska,_Jul_07.jpg) · [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the gravel road across Hatcher Pass](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/hatcher-pass-road.webp)

HIGH PASS 57 · AK

Talkeetna Mountains · Alaska

### Hatcher Pass Road

Talkeetna Mountain walls, glaciers, and historic mining country

Feature

Hatcher Pass

Road relationship

Gravel road crosses named Hatcher Pass

Exact line

22.5 mi

Route high

3,904 ft

Source identity

#2423 · 1,476 points

Source snapshot

Seasonal Closure · Oct 1, 2025

The gravel road crosses Hatcher Pass, where the Talkeetna Mountains, glaciers, and mining country fill the horizon. Alaska DNR identifies the middle section as one of the state's high scenic drives.

Plan before travel The summit section is rough, narrow, steep, and unmaintained in winter. It normally opens about July 1 and closes about September 15, depending on snow. Large vehicles and RVs are not recommended.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-149.86472&south=61.65841&east=-149.17348&north=61.87640&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/alaska/trails/2423-hatcher-pass-road)[Alaska DNR Hatcher Pass guide](https://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/aspunits/matsu/hatcherpassema.htm)[USGS National Map pass record](https://carto.nationalmap.gov/arcgis/rest/services/geonames/MapServer/5/query?where=gaz_id%3D1403231&outFields=*&returnGeometry=true&outSR=4326&f=pjson)[Gate status source](https://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/asp/curevnts.htm)

![Warm twilight over pale sandstone cliffs and dark lava country at Sandstone Bluffs Overlook.](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/photos/sandstone-bluff-overlook-960.webp)

Exact overlook scene Twilight over the sandstone rim and lava country at Sandstone Bluffs Overlook. The National Park Service image explicitly identifies Sandstone Bluffs Overlook at El Malpais.

[Photo: National Park Service photo by John Kuehnert](https://www.nps.gov/media/photo/gallery-item.htm?gid=69763316-155D-451F-67A6BE838A0024A6&id=bfa5284f-3387-42a4-a4f1-c7ea627bf5c4) · [Public domain](https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/) · Resized and converted by EV Backroads

![USGS topographic map of the gravel road to Sandstone Bluffs Overlook](/media/stories/high-points-beside-the-trail/sandstone-bluff-overlook.webp)

CLIFF EDGE 60 · NM

El Malpais · New Mexico

### Sandstone Bluffs Overlook

Buff sandstone above black lava, with Mount Taylor and the Zuni Mountains beyond

Feature

Sandstone Bluffs Overlook

Road relationship

Gravel road ends at Sandstone Bluffs Overlook

Exact line

1.9 mi

Route high

6,980 ft

Source identity

#2516 · 93 points

Source snapshot

Open · Jun 24, 2023

The gravel road ends on Sandstone Bluffs, a cliff-top overlook above El Malpais's black lava field. The National Park Service documents the wide volcanic view and steep dropoffs beside the parking area.

Plan before travel The overlook is open from dawn to dusk and does not allow camping. Watch for unguarded dropoffs, high wind, lightning, and winter ice, and check current NPS conditions.

[Open on Backroads Map](/map?west=-107.84832&south=34.94043&east=-107.80833&north=34.96228&trails=1#network-map)[Trail source](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/new-mexico/scout-routes/2516-sandstone-bluff-overlook)[National Park Service Highway 117 guide](https://home.nps.gov/elma/planyourvisit/sites-along-highway-117.htm)[National Park Service overlook record](https://www.nps.gov/places/elma-sandstone-bluffs-overlook.htm)[Gate status source](https://www.nps.gov/elma/planyourvisit/conditions.htm)

REQUESTED BENCHMARK · NOW VERIFIED

## Saints John — Glacier Mountain

The exact Saints John centerline climbs the shoulder below Glacier Mountain. The named summit rises directly above the road's local-high section.

Exact line length

7.32 mi

Road relationship

Road climbs the shoulder below Glacier Mountain

Glacier Mountain

12,401 ft

Exact trail line and summit marker published.

The source audit found one exact Colorado record for Trails Offroad route 443. Its frozen 999-point centerline climbs the high shoulder directly below Glacier Mountain.

The July 3, 2026 gate sheet listed Saints John Road 275 as open. The seasonal closure is November 23 through May 20 or until the road is dry.

[Open the Trails Offroad profile](https://www.trailsoffroad.com/US/colorado/trails/443-saints-john)[Open the road guide](https://fdrd.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Saints-John-Rd-FDR-275-rev-03.2022.pdf)[Open the July 2026 gate sheet](https://fdrd.org/resources/)

BACKROADS MAP

## See every exact line with the charging map.

The coral route layer shows these story trails. Select a line or high-point marker to return to its entry in this story.

[Plot the high-point trails](/map#network-map)

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