This ride is best done during dry season.....otherwise you are likely to get cold and wet. Going up this spectacular road in the rain is no fun. Tried but could not post or copy/paste any photos here. Paying small entrance fee to the park is well worth the riding experience. At the top, the Air Force guys are friendly, especially if you are a service veteran yourself. They will likely try to strike up conversation with you. Some might not know also that, from Chiang Mai, you can also take a shortcut through Doi Intanon Park on the way to Maehongson. It cuts off about a half hour or so going through Mae Jaem. A good map will show you the route. Took it once and it was paved pretty decently, but beware, as it's easy to miss some of the turns......but either way, it's worth cruising those seldom-ridden roads to get away from traffic and any hint of smoke belchers. Takes you into some serious back country of Northern Thailand.....into "God's Country".