Narrow, winding road above the American River offers spectacular scenery—and a white-knuckle driving experience
Iowa Hill, Calif. – An adrenaline-rush, white-knuckle journey is what you can expect on Iowa Hill Road, a narrow and winding route leading to the isolated Placer County community of Iowa Hill.
Located about 40 miles northeast of Roseville, Iowa Hill feels like a world apart. The road climbs above the North Fork of the American River, offering spectacular scenery along the way—but getting there by car is an adventure not for the faint of heart.
A motorcycle might be a safer, more appropriate—and certainly smarter—travel option than a car.
Iowa Hill Road leads to a small, isolated community in Placer County. Perched at just under 3,000 feet in elevation, Iowa Hill is located about 40 miles northeast of Roseville, but feels a world apart.
Getting there by car is an epic adventure—and definitely not for the faint of heart.
An approximately 5-mile stretch of this narrow, winding road climbs precipitously above the North Fork of the American River. Remain extremely focused, as this barely-more-than-one-lane road serves two-way traffic and leaves little room for the slightest mistake.
Death-Defying Cliffs
Be prepared to blare your horn as you approach tight, twisting turns where you can't see what's coming around the bend. The road literally puts you on the edge of death-defying cliffs that plunge hundreds of feet below.
We made the trip in an SUV—not exactly the wisest choice—and continuously worried about what we'd do if we encountered oncoming traffic. There's little room to maneuver, and passengers looking out their windows may see little more than a steep drop-off where pavement should be.
For motorcyclists, however, we imagine Iowa Hill Road would be a majestic—and perhaps less stressful—ride.
In any event, for those who enjoy spectacular scenery in rural Placer County and don't mind adding a few gray hairs along the way, Iowa Hill Road is an epic drive you'll never forget.
Alternate Route or Loop
If you have the time and want to avoid backtracking, consider continuing along Iowa Hill Road as it becomes Sugar Pine Road. Follow it until you reach Foresthill Road, creating a loop that eventually brings you back toward Interstate 80 by way of the confluence.
It's a less thrilling experience, but scenic nonetheless.
Camping
En route, you'll pass Mineral Bar Campground, situated near the bridge where the road crosses the North Fork of the American River.
The California Department of Parks and Recreation notes that the campground has 16 designated campsites with tables, fire pits, and dry toilets. No drinking water is available.
Mineral Bar Campground looks like a beautiful spot to get away for a few days. Campsites are $28 per night.
Sugar Pine Reservoir
Located about 7 miles north of Foresthill, Sugar Pine Reservoir offers another opportunity to explore the scenic backcountry of Placer County.