{
  "name": "Ma'ale HaAtzmaut",
  "slug": "maale-haatzmaut",
  "url": "https://www.bestdrivingroads.com/roads/maale-haatzmaut/",
  "summary": "Route 40's Independence Ascent plunges through four dramatic hairpins off the rim of Makhtesh Ramon, the largest erosion crater on earth, then crosses 40 km of alien desert floor.",
  "roadNumbers": [
    "Route 40"
  ],
  "location": {
    "country": "Israel",
    "region": "Negev Desert",
    "start": {
      "name": "Mitzpe Ramon",
      "lat": 30.609772,
      "lon": 34.807917
    },
    "end": {
      "name": "Makhtesh Ramon",
      "lat": 30.390155,
      "lon": 34.948528
    }
  },
  "measurements": {
    "lengthMiles": 25,
    "lengthKm": 40.2,
    "driveMinutes": 50,
    "corners": 14,
    "hairpins": 3,
    "maxGradientPercent": 13,
    "summitMetres": 840.8,
    "elevationConfidence": "measured",
    "difficulty": "moderate",
    "tightnessOutOf10": 5
  },
  "timing": {
    "bestSeasons": [
      "spring",
      "autumn",
      "winter"
    ]
  },
  "conditions": {},
  "hazards": [
    "Flash floods in wadis during winter rain may make low sections impassable",
    "Extreme summer heat exceeding 40 C from June to August",
    "Steep switchbacks on the crater descent require careful braking",
    "Limited services inside the crater, carry water and fuel"
  ],
  "scenery": [
    "mountain",
    "gorge",
    "valley"
  ],
  "pointsOfInterest": [
    "Ma'ale Afor",
    "Ma'ale HaMishar",
    "Barak and Amichai Lookout"
  ],
  "geometry": {
    "pointCount": 124
  },
  "attribution": {
    "source": "Routes - bestdrivingroads.com",
    "citation": "Cite with a link to the road page. Stats are measured from the mapped line, not copied from other lists; where elevationConfidence is \"approximate\" the 30 m DEM cannot resolve that line and the elevation figures are indicative.",
    "roadGeometry": "(c) OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL",
    "terms": "Facts are free to cite with attribution; bulk reproduction of the catalogue requires permission (simon@keane.studio)."
  },
  "updated": "2026-08-03"
}