Most Dangerous Winter Roads in the World

Drivers are being warned about the most dangerous roads globally and urged to avoid them this winter. Motoring experts worldwide have named the seven most treacherous wintery roads, where a single mistake could cost drivers their lives.

The rollercoaster-like Atlantic Road in Norway sees motorists travel along the sea’s edge with high winds and snowstorms a regular hazard.

Road 622 in Iceland is often underwater, and sections of the route are at risk of being washed away due to the extreme winter weather.

High elevation, isolated routes, steep slopes and narrow passes are all made even more dangerous in the winter – with avalanches, high winds, sudden snowstorms and slippery ice making these routes highly treacherous to drivers.

John Charnock, CEO of StressFreeCarRental.com, said: “Severe winter weather can see these already dangerous roads turn even more deadly for drivers.

“We’re urging all motorists to proceed with extreme caution if attempting to drive on these roads, but given how the weather can quickly make things even worse, drivers should avoid them altogether.

“Some routes are shut down when the weather is too bad, and drivers are forced to spend the night in their cars.

“Many of the most dangerous roads have steep gradients and sharp hairpin bends, which are even more treacherous when icy.”

Here Are StressFreeCarRental.com’s Most Dangerous Winter Roads in the World:

1. Coquihalla Highway, Canada

Located in British Columbia, Canada, motorists travelling along this deadly highway throughout the winter should prepare for weather surprises such as heavy snowfall, storms and avalanches. Some drivers must spend the night in their cars if the road is shut down due to extreme conditions. 

2. Zoji La Pass, India

This unpaved mountain pass can be so narrow in parts that vehicles struggle to drive through. Extreme winter weather makes the road impassable in places, leading to its closure for months. Driving along the route in the winter often means passing through thick ice walls on either side.

3. Snake Pass, England

Notorious for being one of Britain’s most dangerous roads, drivers along Snake Pass face even more hazards during the winter. The road has blind summits and hairpin bends, and heavy snow and landslides can force the road to close throughout the colder months.  

4. Atlantic Road, Norway

Many sections of this road along the Norwegian coast are similar to a rollercoaster ride – with several dips and turns for drivers to navigate. The route can be treacherous, where high winds could cause motorists to drive off the bridge. Unpredictable weather, low visibility, high winds, and snowfall make this road along the sea’s edge dangerous.

5. Bealach na Ba road, Scotland

Despite the stunning views, this Scottish road in the Highlands is a dangerous route for drivers to navigate. The isolated path has the steepest ascent of any other UK road at 2,054 feet. The narrow trail is even more treacherous in the winter, with sharp twists on the ice and vertical gradients of up to 17% with risks of landslides.

6. Dalton Highway, Alaska

This 414-mile road is one of the most isolated in North America, with only three towns to stop off whilst driving. Small vehicles and motorcycles are at severe risk when driving along steep slopes that reach up to 12% gradient, covered in ice and snow during winter.

7. Road 622, Iceland

When the tide is high, the sea covers certain sections along the road – making the route one of the most dangerous in the world. During the winter, storms and landslides can wash away parts of the track, and heavy snow, ice, and mud create extremely hazardous conditions for drivers.