signs along the route as well. With its elevation, neighbouring terrain of Angeles Forest and position amongst the peaks, the route can be affected by fires, snow and rockslides. A stop at Newcombs Ranch – a roadhouse with roots dating back to 1888 – is an absolute must. The park- ing lot alone delivers a car show full of classics, exot- ics and automotive rarities that would rival some of the best organised events you’ve ever been to. If you’re an autograph hound, keep your eyes peeled as plenty of fast-driving celebs frequent this neck of the woods, although we’d argue the drive alone is sou- venir enough. Mi
Angeles Crest – California There may be no road nearer and dearer to a driving enthusiast’s heart than the 106-km collection of twists and turns known as Angeles Crest Highway. Just min- utes (or hours, depending on traffic) from downtown Los Angeles, Angeles Crest climbs to a peak of 2,409 m at the Dawson Saddle in the San Gabriel Mountains, rewarding drivers with some of the most scenic views of Los Angeles and San Bernardino County. Of course the stellar views aren’t the only thing that Angeles Crest boasts. Rising north out of La Cañada Flintridge, the route begins fairly straight and laid back. Before you get ahead of yourself, we rec- ommend caffeinating and tucking into a Breakfast Machaca at the Hill Street café before rolling out. A couple of long, sweeping corners greet you before the asphalt unfurls like yarn that’s been batted around by a collection of kittens. In one 50-km section, there are more than 200 individual turns. Road conditions are typically nothing short of excep- tional since the highway’s rebuild in 2009, and it can be easy for some to overestimate the grip of their tires or their abilities – especially after successfully pushing through a couple of the more technical sec- tions – so don’t forget to pace yourself. There are plenty of lay-bys and scenic turnouts along the way, so if you’d rather meander than go full-on at- tack mode, worry not as you can let faster traffic fil- ter through. Keep your eyes peeled for informational
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