{
  "name": "Shipka Pass",
  "slug": "shipka-pass",
  "url": "https://www.bestdrivingroads.com/roads/shipka-pass/",
  "summary": "The Shipka Pass carries the E85 over the Balkan range between Gabrovo and the Valley of Roses, climbing to 1,185 m through dense forest with sweeping summit panoramas.",
  "roadNumbers": [
    "I-5"
  ],
  "location": {
    "country": "Bulgaria",
    "region": "Stara Planina",
    "start": {
      "name": "Gabrovo",
      "lat": 42.965146,
      "lon": 25.213055
    },
    "end": {
      "name": "Kazanlak",
      "lat": 42.618725,
      "lon": 25.393193
    }
  },
  "measurements": {
    "lengthMiles": 34.6,
    "lengthKm": 55.7,
    "driveMinutes": 69,
    "corners": 71,
    "hairpins": 2,
    "maxGradientPercent": 13,
    "summitMetres": 1286.2,
    "elevationConfidence": "measured",
    "difficulty": "moderate",
    "tightnessOutOf10": 5
  },
  "timing": {
    "bestSeasons": [
      "spring",
      "summer",
      "autumn"
    ]
  },
  "conditions": {},
  "hazards": [
    "Winter snow and ice closures",
    "Chain requirement in winter",
    "Occasional surface deterioration"
  ],
  "scenery": [
    "mountain",
    "forest",
    "valley"
  ],
  "pointsOfInterest": [
    "General Mikhail Skobelev Monument",
    "Monument to Dimitar Blagoev",
    "Buzludzha Monument"
  ],
  "geometry": {
    "pointCount": 321
  },
  "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"
}