Driving up a mountain is often worth it. Exhibit A: Just look at this picture. (And pay respects to the guy driving up on his bike instead of a car.)
Gear and settings used for this image:
Panasonic G9
Panasonic Lumix G Vario 12-60mm f3.5-5.6
49mm, f11, 1/125s, ISO 200
Captured in RAW, edited with Affinity Photo