A Once in a Lifetime Drive through Hell's Backbone Road in Utah
Usa, north-america
61 km
2,814 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay, picture this: Hell's Backbone Road, nestled in Utah's Garfield County, a hidden gem within the Dixie National Forest. This isn't your average Sunday drive, folks!
Built back in the Great Depression, this 38-mile dirt road winds its way from Boulder to Escalante, offering a thrilling alternative to the paved highway. They called it the Poison Road back then because one wrong move could send you tumbling! It's named after the super-skinny ridge it crosses.
Now, don't let the "family car" suggestion fool you—this road is narrow, winding, and clings to the side of a ridge with seriously steep drops on either side. Stormy weather? Maybe skip it. Remote is an understatement. No cell service, so you’re on your own out there.
Oh, and did I mention it climbs to a whopping 9,232 feet? Yeah, it's a high one, which means it's a no-go in winter, closed after the first big snow.
But, oh, the views! Sweeping vistas, access to incredible wilderness, and a healthy dose of history. The highlight? Hell's Backbone Bridge, a 109-foot-long span with a 1,500-foot drop on either side. Seriously, bring your camera! It crosses Sand Creek, giving you amazing views of the Box-Death Hollow Wilderness Area. Summer's the busiest time to visit.
Give yourself 2-3 hours to tackle this beauty without stops, but honestly, you'll want more time to soak it all in. It's a trip you won't soon forget!
Where is it?
A Once in a Lifetime Drive through Hell's Backbone Road in Utah is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 39.5546, -99.0683
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 61 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,814 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
- Coordinates
- 39.5546, -99.0683
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