Crossing the Hell's Backbone Bridge of Utah

Located in Garfield County, in southern Utah, in the USA, Hell's Backbone Bridge is one of the most spectacular bridges in the world.

Hell's Backbone Bridge

This concrete deck girder bridge over Sandy Creek Gorge is 109 feet (33 m) long, and 14 feet (4.3 m) wide. A 1,500-foot (460 m) drop is on either side. The bridge is a must-stop for taking photographs with outstanding views down into rugged canyons. Not for the faint of heart. Views are exceptional. The original bridge was built in 1933 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It was in use until the 1960’s when it began to groan and squeak under vehicular traffic. It was replaced in 2005 with the current steel and concrete bridge. You can still see remnants of wooden beams beneath the structure and beside the road.

The bridge carries the scenic Hell's Backbone Road. This one way road is closed in winters. The drive offers heavenly day tripping. Hells Backbone Road is gravel, graded occasionally, and suitable for family cars during dry weather. The road becomes impassable after the first major snowfall.
Pic: Isaac Gifford

 

Drive Us to Your Road!

With over 13,000 roads cataloged, we're always on the lookout for unique routes. Know of a road that deserves to be featured? Click here to share your suggestion, and we may add it to dangerousroads.org.