America’s Most Feared Roads

Planning a road trip? While America is home to some of the world’s most scenic highways, a few roads have gained a darker reputation—known more for their risks than their beauty. In a June 2024 survey of 3,000 motorists, commissioned by Gunther Mitsubishi, some of the most dangerous and feared roads in the United States were identified. These are the roads where sudden changes in weather, treacherous terrain, and remote locations can turn a peaceful drive into a risky venture. Here are the top five roads you should approach with caution.

1. U.S. Route 285 – New Mexico

At the top of the list is U.S. Route 285, a stretch of highway that cuts through the rugged terrain of New Mexico. Between Vaughn and Roswell, this route is notorious for its desolate stretches, earning the grim nickname “Death Highway” near the town of Malaga. In 2023, a 12-vehicle pileup sent nine people to the hospital, underscoring just how quickly things can go wrong here.

What makes this road so dangerous? The wide, empty spaces with few services for miles, combined with sudden weather changes, such as dust storms and flash floods, can catch drivers off-guard. If your car breaks down here, you could be stranded far from help. It’s not just an inconvenience—it’s a potential life-threatening situation.

2. California Highway 190 – Death Valley Road

California Highway 190 cuts through one of the most extreme environments on the planet—Death Valley National Park. During summer, temperatures can soar above 120°F, making any vehicle breakdown a serious emergency. The road itself is remote, with little shade and limited services, meaning help may not arrive quickly if something goes wrong.

Tourists who underestimate Death Valley often end up stranded, only to realize too late that driving through this area isn’t just about having enough gas—it’s about being prepared for survival-level conditions. Out here, even the most minor issues can spiral into a dangerous situation.

3. U.S. Highway 90 – Texas

Next, we head to Texas. U.S. Highway 90 runs across vast stretches of open landscape, where the horizon seems endless. While the scenery might look peaceful, it’s exactly this isolation that makes the road so risky. With limited access to services, a flat tire or overheated engine can leave drivers stranded for hours under the scorching Texas sun.

Cell service can be unreliable in these areas, and traffic is scarce, so waiting for help could feel like an eternity. This is one road where being prepared with extra water, a spare tire, and a working phone could make all the difference.

4. Hawaii Route 200 – Saddle Road

Now, let’s venture to paradise—Hawaii. But even paradise has its dangers. Saddle Road on the Big Island winds through volcanic mountains, offering breathtaking views. However, the road itself is filled with sharp turns, sudden drops, and unpredictable weather patterns.

Fog and rain frequently reduce visibility to near zero, turning this scenic route into a treacherous drive. If you’re unfamiliar with Saddle Road’s quirks, a single miscalculation could send you off the road and into the lava rock below. Locals know the risks, but for tourists, this road can quickly turn a dream vacation into a nightmare.

5. U.S. Highway 50 – Nevada

Dubbed “The Loneliest Road in America,” U.S. Highway 50 winds through the deserts of Nevada. Its vast isolation is both its charm and its danger. Imagine driving for hours without seeing another car—until your vehicle breaks down in the middle of nowhere.

With no gas stations or rest stops for miles, even a minor mechanical problem can become a major headache. When the sun sets, the emptiness of this highway can feel overwhelming, and the lack of help nearby can leave drivers feeling vulnerable. Out here, self-reliance is key.

Additional Roads Highlighted by AAA

The survey didn’t stop with the top five. AAA has also flagged several other roads for their unique dangers:

• U.S. Route 550 – Colorado
  Known as the “Million Dollar Highway,” this road snakes through steep mountain passes without guardrails. In winter, snowstorms and rockslides make it even more perilous.
• U.S. Route 1 – Florida
  This stretch of the Overseas Highway connects the Florida Keys to Miami, offering stunning views. But it’s also one of the deadliest roads in the country. Long bridges, distracted drivers, and no ban on handheld devices make it a high-risk drive.
• Interstate 4 – Florida
  This highway between Tampa and Daytona Beach sees a shocking number of fatal accidents, largely due to tourists unfamiliar with the road and distracted by their GPS or phones.
• Lake Pontchartrain Causeway – Louisiana
  This 24-mile bridge spans open water, and when fog rolls in, the experience can be unnerving. Heavy fog often forces police to escort drivers across, but the eerie isolation can make even experienced drivers nervous.

A Word of Caution: Stay Prepared

While these roads aren’t haunted in the traditional sense, they come with their own set of challenges and risks. From the unforgiving heat of Death Valley to the fog-covered expanses of Lake Pontchartrain, these highways remind us that even the most scenic routes can turn dangerous without warning.

As you plan your next road trip, remember to stay prepared. Check the weather, ensure your vehicle is in good condition, and always have the necessary supplies. Sometimes, the most peaceful roads are also the riskiest, and the dangers are the ones you don’t see coming.

Stay safe out there, and happy travels.