Tram Ton Pass (Deo Tram Ton)

Tram Ton Pass—sometimes known as O Quy Ho Pass—connects the towns of Lai Chau and Sapa, tracing the edges of Fansipan, Vietnam’s highest mountain at 10,326 feet (3,147 meters). You’ll find the aforementioned lookout roughly 9 miles north of Sapa; from here, note the different environments around you—they vary from forests and waterfalls in the east to dry, dusty terrain to the west. You’ll want at least half a day to explore the pass and don’t miss stops at Thac Bac (Silver Waterfall) and the Cau Kinh Rong May Bridge.

• While motorbikes are permitted up here, you’ll probably want to tackle the pass in a four-wheeled vehicle—there’s lots of wind.

• Three hours is the minimum amount of time it takes to cross the pass. A few small shops are at the main overlook should you need a snack.

• There are several viewpoints along the pass’s 75 miles. Stop at them all—you’ll get vastly different views.

• Pack a light jacket—it can get foggy and cold at the top.

The easiest way to experience the pass is on a day tour—most start in Sapa and will take you to the popular sites, including area villages. Otherwise, simply rent a car and hit the literal road from Sapa or Lai Chau. It’s the main drag, so you can’t miss it. Technically, you’re looking for road QL4D.

Generally speaking, the best time to be in the Sapa area and drive the pass is fall or September to November. The weather will likely be drier and less foggy—if it’s overcast, there’s no point in driving the pass. In September, you’ll be rewarded with views of the surrounding rice terraces turning gold.

Just driving the pass is an adventure, but it’s far more memorable if you get out and explore on foot, like to the area’s two beloved waterfalls. At Silver Waterfall, right on the road, you can take a loop trail (for a fee) to climb up close to the cascade. Love Waterfall is a 30-minute hike from the road but less crowded—and perhaps even more magnificent.