Sitgreaves Pass - Image 1
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Sitgreaves Pass

4.8
·264 reviews·Kingman, United States

A legendary, winding stretch of Route 66 offering dramatic desert vistas and a thrilling drive through the Black Mountains.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer cars, peaceful views

CrowdLow
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Sitgreaves Pass - Image 1

Sitgreaves Pass

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer cars, peaceful views

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A legendary, winding stretch of Route 66 offering dramatic desert vistas and a thrilling drive through the Black Mountains. Instagram

4.8
(264 reviews)

"One of my favorite roads in the west! Great scenery, Oatman was awesome. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Drive Slow & Alert

The pass has many curves & switchbacks. Keep speeds low (10-15 mph) and stay alert.

🛻 Vehicle Size Limits

No trailers or vehicles over 40 feet allowed due to narrow, winding roads.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Vistas

Panoramic Vistas

Summit of the Pass

Experience breathtaking, sweeping views of the Black Mountains and surrounding desert landscapes. A truly epic panorama.

Instagram
Historic Route 66 Drive

Historic Route 66 Drive

The entire stretch of the pass

Navigate the legendary, winding roads of Route 66, feeling the spirit of the open road and pioneers.

Instagram+1
Wild Burro Encounters

Wild Burro Encounters

Along the roadside

Spot and photograph the charming wild burros that freely roam the hillsides near Oatman.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigate the Curves of Route 66

Sitgreaves Pass on Route 66 is known for its tight, winding roads and steep switchbacks. Vehicles over 40 feet are prohibited, and speeds should be kept to 10-15 mph. Plan for a slow, deliberate drive to fully appreciate the dramatic scenery and ensure safety. Reddit

Embrace the Wild West Vibe

This iconic stretch of Route 66 offers breathtaking vistas and a true sense of adventure. Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the panoramic views, especially if you're seeking a peaceful experience. Keep an eye out for the wild burros that roam the area! InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer cars, peaceful views
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend traffic
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Sitgreaves Pass! #theparatraveler #haunted #hauntedplaces #hauntedhouses #hauntedplacesinamerica #hauntedhistory #hauntedlocations #ghoststories #ghosts #ghostsighting #ghostadventures #paranormal #paranormalactivity #paranormalinvestigation #paranormalinvestigator #paranormaltravel
theparatraveler
8 likes • 261 views

🚗 Drive Slow & Alert

The pass has many curves & switchbacks. Keep speeds low (10-15 mph) and stay alert. InstagramReddit

🛻 Vehicle Size Limits

No trailers or vehicles over 40 feet allowed due to narrow, winding roads. Reddit

Sitgreaves Pass, near Oatman Arizona Rt66
soonerjh
7 likes • 500 views
Bienvenue sur le Sitgreaves Pass, un col mythique de la Route 66 niché dans les montagnes de l’Arizona. 🛣️ Des virages serrés, et une atmosphère digne des plus grands westerns… Prêt à suivre les traces des pionniers ? #sitgreavespass #Route66
wildtravelers.moto
10 likes • 299 views

📸 Capture the Views

Stop at pullouts for incredible photo opportunities of the desert landscape. Instagram+1

🐴 Meet the Burros

Look for the friendly wild burros near Oatman; they're a unique local attraction! InstagramReddit

Questo tratto di Route 66 verso il Sitgreaves Pass ci ha letteralmente fatto impazzire 🤩 Chi vorrebbe essere qui adesso? 🏜️ #Route66 #SitgreavesPass #passiepedali #parchinazionaliusaontheroad #roadtripUSA #viaggionegliUSA #america #travelgram #DJI #KingmanAZ #OnTheRoad #OTR #Route66Experience #DroneView #DJIMini4Pro
passiepedali
97 likes • 1.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Drive Slow & Alert

The pass has many curves & switchbacks. Keep speeds low (10-15 mph) and stay alert. InstagramReddit

🛻 Vehicle Size Limits

No trailers or vehicles over 40 feet allowed due to narrow, winding roads. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Stop at pullouts for incredible photo opportunities of the desert landscape. Instagram+1

🐴 Meet the Burros

Look for the friendly wild burros near Oatman; they're a unique local attraction! InstagramReddit

🗺️ Navigate with Care

This section of Route 66 is challenging but rewarding. Enjoy the ride! Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.8
(264 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the breathtaking panoramic views and the thrilling, historic drive along Sitgreaves Pass on Route 66. The chance to see wild burros near Oatman is a major highlight. However, the narrow, winding roads require extreme caution and are not suitable for larger vehicles.

"One of my favorite roads in the west!"

Clara England

"Off the beaten path trail. Had a fun time driving up. We went early in the morning, not sure if we would have enjoyed meeting lots of cars on this road. Many curves and switchbacks. 10 - 15 mph. Great scenery, Oatman was awesome."

Melissa Lopau

"Great view, worth the quick stop if you’re driving this road. Lots of wild burros in this area."

Victoria Ikimi

What People Like

Spectacular panoramic views
Historic Route 66 drive
Wild burro sightings

What People Dislike

Narrow, winding roads
Not for large vehicles

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sitgreaves Pass is located on Historic Route 66 between Kingman and Oatman, Arizona. It's a challenging but scenic drive, especially the section approaching Oatman. Many travelers access it as part of a larger Route 66 road trip. Instagram+1

No, vehicles over 40 feet are prohibited due to the narrow, winding roads and tight switchbacks. It's best suited for cars and smaller SUVs. Reddit

The road is paved but features many sharp curves, steep switchbacks, and no guardrails in some sections. Drivers should proceed with extreme caution and at low speeds. InstagramReddit

Yes, Sitgreaves Pass is accessible from both the east and west sides of Route 66. The drive from Oatman towards the pass is particularly dramatic. Instagram+1

There are very limited services directly on the pass itself. Oatman, a nearby historic town, offers some amenities like food and lodging. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Sitgreaves Pass is a natural landmark and a section of public highway, so no tickets or admission fees are required to drive through or stop at viewpoints. Instagram

As it's a public road, Sitgreaves Pass is accessible 24/7. However, driving it at night is not recommended due to the challenging road conditions and lack of lighting. Reddit

There is no entrance fee to access Sitgreaves Pass. It's a free public road that's part of the historic Route 66 experience. Instagram

Yes, there are designated pullouts and viewpoints where you can safely stop your vehicle to take in the scenery and take photos. InstagramReddit

The primary restriction is for vehicle size (no vehicles over 40 feet). It's also advised to drive slowly and cautiously due to the road's nature. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The summit of the pass offers the most dramatic panoramic views. Pullouts along the road also provide excellent vantage points for capturing the winding highway and desert vistas. Instagram+1

Landscape photography is ideal, capturing the vast desert scenery. You can also get great shots of the historic Route 66 road itself, especially with a drone for unique perspectives. Instagram+1

Early morning or late afternoon light provides the most dramatic and flattering lighting for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows. Instagram

Absolutely! The wild burros are a popular subject. Remember to maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding them. Instagram

Drone usage is generally permitted in open areas, but always check local regulations and be mindful of other visitors and wildlife. Some creators have captured stunning drone footage. Instagram

🎫 🚗 Onsite Experience

The main activity is driving the scenic, winding road and stopping at viewpoints to admire the expansive desert scenery. You can also look for wild burros and soak in the historic Route 66 atmosphere. Instagram+2

The drive itself, depending on how many stops you make, can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour. It's recommended to take your time. Reddit

While there aren't designated hiking trails directly on the pass, the surrounding desert offers opportunities for exploration for experienced hikers. Always be prepared for desert conditions. Reddit

Sitgreaves Pass reaches an elevation of 3,586 feet (1,093 meters) above sea level. Instagram

Some social media content suggests a haunted reputation, though this is more folklore than confirmed fact. It adds to the mysterious allure for some visitors. TikTok

🎫 🐴 Wildlife

The most commonly seen wildlife are the wild burros that roam freely in the area, especially near Oatman. You might also spot desert reptiles and birds. InstagramReddit

While the burros are often friendly, it's important to maintain a safe distance and never feed them. They are wild animals and can be unpredictable. Instagram

Always be aware of your surroundings. Do not approach or corner wildlife. Keep your vehicle doors locked if you leave them unattended. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sitgreaves Pass offers a unique adventure for families, but requires careful planning. The winding roads mean you'll need to keep a close eye on children and ensure they are safely buckled. The main attraction for kids will likely be spotting the wild burros near Oatman, which can be a thrilling experience. Instagram Pack plenty of snacks and water, as services are limited. The dramatic scenery can also be captivating for younger travelers, offering a sense of exploration and discovery on this historic route. Instagram

🏍️ Motorcycle Enthusiasts

For motorcycle riders, Sitgreaves Pass is an iconic and exhilarating stretch of Route 66. The tight curves and elevation changes provide a fantastic riding experience, reminiscent of classic motorcycle adventures. Instagram Riders often praise the freedom and the stunning desert vistas. However, it's crucial to be extra vigilant due to the road's challenging nature and potential for loose gravel. Always ride within your limits and be aware of other vehicles. Instagram

🚗 Road Trippers

Sitgreaves Pass is a must-drive for any serious Route 66 road tripper. It offers a dramatic and memorable segment of the Mother Road, distinct from flatter, straighter sections. Instagram+1 Plan for extra time to navigate the pass slowly and stop at the viewpoints. Combining it with a visit to Oatman provides a perfect blend of scenic driving and historic charm. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Driving the Legendary Route 66

Sitgreaves Pass is a quintessential part of the historic Route 66, offering a challenging yet incredibly rewarding driving experience. The road is characterized by its numerous tight curves and steep switchbacks, demanding a slow and cautious approach. Many travelers recommend keeping speeds between 10-15 mph to safely navigate the terrain and fully absorb the dramatic desert scenery. InstagramReddit Vehicles over 40 feet are strictly prohibited, so plan accordingly if you're in a larger RV or towing a trailer. The drive is often described as feeling like a journey back in time, evoking the spirit of the pioneers and classic American road trips. Instagram+1

This particular section of Route 66 is known for its raw, untamed beauty. The Black Mountains provide a stunning backdrop, and the panoramic vistas from the pass are truly unforgettable. It's a segment that tests your driving skills while offering immense visual rewards. Many visitors find the experience exhilarating and a highlight of their Route 66 adventure. Instagram+1

The Charm of Oatman and its Wild Burros

Just west of Sitgreaves Pass lies the historic mining town of Oatman, Arizona, a place that feels frozen in time. Oatman is famous for its population of wild burros that roam freely through the streets, descendants of the pack animals left behind by miners. Instagram+1 These charming creatures are a major draw for visitors, offering unique photo opportunities and a glimpse into the town's past. You can often find them lounging in the shade or interacting with locals and tourists. Remember to admire them from a safe distance and never feed them, as they are wild animals. Instagram

Oatman itself offers a taste of the Old West with its rustic buildings, saloons, and staged gunfights. It's a perfect place to stop before or after tackling the Sitgreaves Pass. The contrast between the challenging drive over the pass and the quirky, laid-back atmosphere of Oatman makes for a memorable day trip. Many travelers combine a drive over Sitgreaves Pass with a visit to Oatman for a complete Route 66 experience. Instagram+1

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