What degree is the steepest road in the world?

The World’s Steepest Road: A Contested Title

The title of the world’s steepest road isn’t etched in stone, but rather perpetually debated between two contenders: Baldwin Street in New Zealand and Ffordd Pen Llech in Wales. While both offer a thrilling – and potentially terrifying – driving experience, a precise measurement of steepness leads to this ongoing dispute.

Baldwin Street, a marvel of Queenstown, New Zealand, holds the crown with a gradient of 34.8 percent. This means for every 100 meters of horizontal distance, the road ascends 34.8 meters vertically. Its reputation as a challenging climb for motorists and cyclists alike is well-established. The street’s steep incline, coupled with its winding turns, provides a truly unique and unforgettable driving experience for visitors. The view from the top is arguably worth the effort.

Challenging Baldwin Street’s claim to fame is Ffordd Pen Llech, a road in the Welsh countryside. Its steep grade, measured at 37.5 percent, represents a more pronounced ascent. Every 100 meters horizontally translates to a 37.5-meter vertical gain. This seemingly small difference in percentage translates into a significantly more pronounced angle of ascent.

The controversy surrounding these two contenders stems from the differing methods used to calculate gradients. Slight variations in measurement points can lead to a shift in the perceived steepness of the road. While both roads undoubtedly offer a thrilling and challenging experience, the precise and standardized measurement of steepness remains a source of ongoing debate among engineering and geographical communities.

Both streets, in their respective countries, are a testament to human ingenuity in navigating challenging terrain. They also serve as compelling demonstrations of engineering principles, particularly in the context of road design and construction techniques. While definitive proof of which road is “steeper” remains elusive, these two contenders continue to captivate the imagination of anyone who seeks a truly challenging and unique driving experience, or simply wishes to marvel at the marvels of engineering.