{
  "name": "Palms to Pines Scenic Byway",
  "slug": "palms-to-pines-scenic-byway-ca74",
  "url": "https://www.bestdrivingroads.com/roads/palms-to-pines-scenic-byway-ca74/",
  "summary": "CA 74 climbs out of Palm Desert through the seven switchbacks of Seven Level Hill, crosses the Santa Rosa Mountains and Garner Valley, and reaches the pines at Mountain Center after about 33 miles.",
  "roadNumbers": [
    "CA 74"
  ],
  "location": {
    "country": "United States",
    "region": "California",
    "start": {
      "name": "Palm Desert",
      "lat": 33.669197,
      "lon": -116.408168
    },
    "end": {
      "name": "Mountain Center",
      "lat": 33.704582,
      "lon": -116.725243
    }
  },
  "measurements": {
    "lengthMiles": 32.8,
    "lengthKm": 52.8,
    "driveMinutes": 66,
    "corners": 89,
    "hairpins": 0,
    "maxGradientPercent": 7,
    "summitMetres": 1522.9,
    "elevationConfidence": "measured",
    "difficulty": "moderate",
    "tightnessOutOf10": 5
  },
  "timing": {
    "bestSeasons": [
      "spring",
      "autumn"
    ]
  },
  "conditions": {},
  "hazards": [
    "Snow and ice on the higher sections after winter storms, chains sometimes required",
    "No guard rails along the whole length of the twisty sections",
    "Switchbacks are best avoided after dark",
    "Strong wind events with gusts around 55 mph",
    "Mobile signal is spotty along the byway"
  ],
  "scenery": [
    "desert",
    "mountain",
    "forest",
    "valley"
  ],
  "pointsOfInterest": [
    "National Monument Visitor Center",
    "Coachella Valley Vista",
    "Cahuilla Tewanet Scenic Overlook",
    "Santa Rosa Summit",
    "Paradise Valley Cafe",
    "Mountain Center Cafe"
  ],
  "geometry": {
    "pointCount": 343
  },
  "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"
}