Jace Lamonica
When it comes to mountain roads, winter turns the stakes way up. These routes are already a thrill in good weather but add snow, ice, and blinding winds, and they become outright nerve-wracking. Here are some of the world’s most challenging (and stunning) winter mountain drives.
Stelvio Pass, Italy
This iconic Italian road is a bucket-list favorite for thrill-seekers. In winter, though, its 48 hairpin bends become treacherous. Slick ice and steep drops make it a test of patience and skill. While the views of the Italian Alps are mesmerizing, keeping your car on the road is the real challenge.
Tien Shan Pass, Kyrgyzstan
If remote adventure calls your name, the Tien Shan Pass delivers. This rugged road winds through Central Asia’s towering mountains, with blizzards and bone-chilling temperatures upping the ante. It’s breathtaking in every sense—just hope your tires and nerves can handle it.
Dalton Highway, Alaska, USA
Made famous by Ice Road Truckers, this highway laughs in the face of comfort. Stretching over 400 icy miles with no stops for gas or help, it’s equal parts isolation and danger. This Alaskan beast is no joke in winter, between blizzards and frostbite temps.
Transfăgărășan Road, Romania
Dubbed “the Road to the Sky,” this Romanian route is as gorgeous as it is deadly. Winter brings blinding snow and icy corners, which makes steep climbs and sharp turns even riskier. It’s Dracula country, so be prepared for scenic and spine-chilling thrills.
Trollstigen, Norway
Norway’s “Troll’s Path” is a serpentine road that winds through the fjords. In winter, its tight hairpins freeze over, turning it into a slippery thrill ride. If you’re brave enough to tackle this icy ribbon, the dramatic cliffs and snowy peaks will take your breath away, literally.
Khardung La, India
Known as one of the highest motorable roads in the world, Khardung La is pure Himalayan madness. Snow piles up fast, and altitude sickness is just part of the experience. When the icy cliffs don’t test you, the thin air will.
Sichuan-Tibet Highway, China
This road is notorious for its remote, high-altitude sections, dangerous curves, and frequent snowstorms. During winter, the risk of avalanches, icy roads, and freezing temperatures make it one of the world’s most perilous mountain routes, which test your sheer focus and skill.
White Bird Hill Summit, Idaho, USA
In the Pacific Northwest, this pass is deceptively dangerous. Steep grades and black ice make it a nerve-wracking drive in winter. Add in heavy snowstorms, and it’s a test of both your driving skills and your patience.
James Dalton Pass, Canada
Deep in the Yukon, the James Dalton Pass makes winter driving a high-stakes game. Snowdrifts can swallow vehicles whole, and temperatures regularly drop below -40°F. It’s a survivalist’s dream—or nightmare—depending on how prepared you are.
Col de l’Iseran, France
The highest paved road in Europe, Col de l’Iseran, is a winter wonderland with a catch—it’s practically impassable when snowed in. Those daring enough to drive it face narrow paths, howling winds, and zero forgiveness for mistakes.
Great St. Bernard Pass, Switzerland/Italy
Connecting Switzerland and Italy, this ancient route is steeped in history and danger. Winter transforms it into an icy gauntlet, with tight tunnels and blind corners that make every turn feel like your last. The snow-covered peaks are the ultimate distraction—stay focused!
Leh-Manali Highway, India
Think of this as a Himalayan endurance test. The winter brings avalanches, snow-blocked roads, and freezing temperatures. Only locals and the bravest of travelers dare attempt this rugged, icy stretch. For the rest of us? It’s better enjoyed from the comfort of a photo.
Sani Pass, South Africa/Lesotho
Who said Africa doesn’t do snow? Sani Pass proves otherwise. This treacherous climb is all mud, ice, and jaw-dropping cliffs in winter. Without a 4×4, don’t even think about it. If you survive the drive, the views over Lesotho are your reward.
Beartooth Highway, Montana/Wyoming, USA
This All-American road closes in winter—and for good reason. When it’s not buried under snow, icy conditions and sharp switchbacks make every mile a gamble. Still, for those who dare, the sweeping views of the Rockies are unforgettable.
Gotthard Pass, Switzerland
Another Swiss stunner, Gotthard Pass, combines beauty with danger. Heavy snowstorms can bury it in hours, turning this ancient route into a snow-covered labyrinth. Pro tip: pack chains and a whole lot of patience.
Guoliang Tunnel Road, China
Carved through a mountain, this tunnel road is as breathtaking as it is terrifying. The narrow passage is carved into the cliffs, with no guardrails and steep drops just inches away. In winter, ice and snow make it even riskier, but for 1.4 Million adrenaline junkies who visit here every year, it’s a thrill of its own.
Loveland Pass, Colorado, USA
A Rocky Mountain favorite, Loveland Pass is stunning—but deadly in winter. Fierce winds and whiteouts make its sharp bends especially tricky. If you’re not sliding on ice, you’re probably dodging semis that use the route when the nearby Eisenhower Tunnel is closed.
Irohazaka Winding Road, Japan
Located in the mountains of Nikko, this road is famous for its 48 hairpins. Add snow and ice, and it becomes a slippery nightmare. It’s worth the risk for the scenic views, but make sure your brakes are in top shape—you’re going to need them.
Pikes Peak Highway, Colorado, USA
As America’s most famous mountain road, Pikes Peak Highway doesn’t play around in winter. With 156 sharp turns and no guardrails, even a tiny patch of ice can lead to disaster. The views are breathtaking, but so is the anxiety.
Abano Pass, Georgia (the Country)
Georgia’s Abano Pass takes remote to the next level. Snowstorms make this high-altitude route impassable for most of the year. When it’s open, it’s all icy roads, no safety rails, and steep drops. Only the brave—or slightly crazy—attempt it.
