What’s your threshold for spirited driving on an open road? What boundaries—figurative and literal—do you refuse to breach? Every aficionado contemplates these queries when embarking on a high-speed adventure, regardless of their awareness. There’s no universal guideline for canyon drivers, leaving each of us to establish our own equilibrium of assertiveness and caution. The outcome, too frequently, is a pricey or, more tragically, fatal blunder.
This is precisely what the latest video on The Drive’s YouTube channel discusses. Some motorists think that routes such as Angeles Crest, Tail of the Dragon, or their local stretch of pavement is their playground, having repeatedly shown the ability to navigate it quickly without incidents. But just because you’ve never had a crash before doesn’t imply you won’t in the future. That’s termed survivorship bias, and it’s one of the pitfalls of the belief that the open road is reserved for those who believe they’re best suited to master it.
At the beginning of the video, The Drive Editor-in-Chief Kyle Cheromcha summarizes the conflict between Evan Sawyer, a self-identified canyon driver, and Cort Wagner, a pro-am racing driver. Sawyer shared a video of himself standing in a hairpin and gesturing rudely at drivers for apexing and crossing the double yellows, who reciprocated the sentiment. One such driver was Wagner, who, to put it mildly, aligns less with Sawyer’s mindset and more with the attitude described in the previous paragraph.
This discussion has circulated in recent months, but it is certainly larger than these two individuals. In this video, we ask some enthusiasts in the canyons about their boundaries—what they will or won’t undertake, and the reasons why. The reality is that there’s far more ordinary traffic in the world than there are aspiring (or genuine) racers, and even on isolated, unused highways, like Angeles Crest, you can never, ever be certain that such traffic isn’t hidden around a curve, where you can’t see it. The only venue where you can drive without such anxiety is, naturally, the racetrack.
Even if you removed the potential danger to your fellow motorists from the equation (you can’t, but let’s try for the sake of discussion), the carefree approach of the freedom to die doing what you love doesn’t weigh much when the dying is complete. Late last year, Vince Zampella, the creator of Call of Duty, tragically died alongside passenger Zachary Marks when the Ferrari 296 GTS he was driving hit the harsh edge of a concrete barrier on Angeles Crest after exiting a tunnel. Zampella wasn’t inexperienced, yet he still made an error that anyone could commit.
One of my favorite aspects of this video is hearing some of the enthusiasts we interviewed express their own road rules. Frankly, it’s all wise guidance to follow. “I never drive anywhere close to the vehicle’s limit,” one individual stated. “I operate, maybe, 70% of my personal limit, because I understand I’ll be well beneath what the car is capable of, and I always prepare for gravel, unforeseen events, corners, so I’m never truly pushing the vehicle.”
“You know, if you’re driving at 10/10ths up here, then there’s actually no margin for mistake,” was another driver’s caution. But the final one truly encapsulates this sentiment the best: “If I can be granted another day to live, returning here another day, that’s a success.”
Do you have any insights on safe, spirited driving? Watch the video, and share your thoughts in the comments here or on YouTube.
**Controversy Over America’s Premier Driving Routes Escalates**
As autumn approaches and temperatures drop, the yearly debate regarding America’s premier driving routes intensifies. Enthusiasts, travelers, and local communities are becoming more expressive about their preferred paths, igniting discussions that mirror not only personal inclinations but also the cultural and geographical variation within the United States.
**The Renowned Routes**
Several routes consistently surface in discussions about the finest driving experiences. The Pacific Coast Highway (California State Route 1) is frequently praised for its awe-inspiring coastal vistas and winding curves. Spanning the California coastline, it provides drivers with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and delightful seaside villages.
Another noteworthy contender is the Blue Ridge Parkway, which winds through the Appalachian Mountains, presenting vibrant autumn foliage and breathtaking overlooks. This route is renowned for its natural beauty and cultural significance, linking various national parks and historic landmarks.
In the Midwest, Route 66, referred to as the “Main Street of America,” occupies a nostalgic spot in the hearts of many. This historic highway, extending from Chicago to Santa Monica, embodies the freedom of the open road and the adventurous spirit.
**New Favorites**
While classic favorites prevail in discussions, newer routes are garnering attention. The Million Dollar Highway in Colorado, with its stunning mountain passes and exhilarating elevation changes, has captivated the interest of driving enthusiasts. Similarly, the Tail of the Dragon, located at Deal’s Gap in North Carolina, is celebrated for its 318 curves in just 11 miles, attracting motorcyclists and sports car enthusiasts alike.
**Community Engagement**
Local communities are increasingly participating in promoting their roads as top driving destinations. Events such as car shows, driving tours, and festivals focusing on scenic routes help to showcase the distinctive features of these roads. Social media campaigns and travel blogs have also significantly contributed to amplifying voices advocating for lesser-known routes, encouraging exploration beyond familiar paths.
**Environmental and Safety Issues**
As the discussion heats up, so do conversations about environmental effects and road safety. Numerous advocates stress the importance of sustainable tourism practices to preserve the natural beauty that captivates visitors to these routes. Additionally, safety concerns, particularly on twisting or remote paths, have led to calls for enhanced infrastructure and driver education.
**Conclusion**
The discourse surrounding America’s premier driving roads mirrors the nation’s varied landscapes and the personal connections individuals develop with these routes. As more voices enter the dialogue, it becomes evident that the passion for the open road is a common experience, transcending geographical limitations and uniting people through their love for exploration and adventure. Whether it’s the legendary Pacific Coast Highway or a hidden gem in the mountains, the journey continues to inspire and provoke discussion among driving enthusiasts nationwide.