{
  "name": "Ortega Highway",
  "slug": "ortega-highway-ca74",
  "url": "https://www.bestdrivingroads.com/roads/ortega-highway-ca74/",
  "summary": "CA 74 climbs from San Juan Capistrano along San Juan Creek through Caspers Wilderness Park and the Cleveland National Forest, winding over the Santa Ana Mountains past El Cariso before dropping to Lake Elsinore.",
  "roadNumbers": [
    "CA 74"
  ],
  "location": {
    "country": "United States",
    "region": "California",
    "start": {
      "name": "San Juan Capistrano",
      "lat": 33.50229,
      "lon": -117.659024
    },
    "end": {
      "name": "Lake Elsinore",
      "lat": 33.65826,
      "lon": -117.375764
    }
  },
  "measurements": {
    "lengthMiles": 28.3,
    "lengthKm": 45.5,
    "driveMinutes": 59,
    "corners": 63,
    "hairpins": 0,
    "maxGradientPercent": 8,
    "summitMetres": 816.1,
    "elevationConfidence": "measured",
    "difficulty": "demanding",
    "tightnessOutOf10": 6
  },
  "timing": {
    "bestSeasons": [
      "spring",
      "autumn",
      "winter"
    ]
  },
  "conditions": {},
  "hazards": [
    "Lane widening near Lake Elsinore, with night closures and some 55-hour weekend closures in 2026",
    "Narrow, busy road with limited shoulders, known as one of the state's most dangerous",
    "Brush fires can close the road, as the Gibby Fire did on 2 September 2026",
    "A favourite with motorcyclists, so expect many bikes"
  ],
  "scenery": [
    "mountain",
    "forest",
    "valley"
  ],
  "pointsOfInterest": [
    "Mission San Juan Capistrano",
    "Ortega Oaks Candy Store and Goods",
    "San Juan Loop and Bear Canyon Trailheads",
    "Hells Kitchen",
    "Lookout Roadhouse"
  ],
  "geometry": {
    "pointCount": 338
  },
  "attribution": {
    "source": "bestdrivingroads.com",
    "citation": "Cite with a link to the road page. Stats are measured from the mapped line; 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": "2026-10-11"
}