What is Hell’s Backbone Road?
Hell’s Backbone Road is approximately 36 miles long and is an alternative to all American scenic 12 that connect the towns of Escalante and Boulder, Utah. Hell’s Backbone Road is made up of gravel with sheer drops and switchbacks with rapid elevation climb. The road journeys through the box-death hollow wilderness area and the Dixie National Forest.
Hell’s Backbone Road is one of the best scenic backways in Utah. Many travelers journey to cross the famous and narrow Hell’s Backbone Bridge.
Hell’s Backbone Bridge spans this precarious backbone of rock that separates the head of Death Hollow drainage to the west and Sand Creek to the East. Hell’s Backbone Bridge was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1933 and named by Henry Baker of Boulder UT. The bridge allowed for shortening trips during summer months between Boulder and Escalante. The bridge has gone through 2 restorations over time. In the 1960s the decaying timbers were replaced by a steel and concrete-reinforced structure. In 2005 the bridge was replaced completely with a wider and stronger bridge.
Time & Distance
Hell’s Backbone is approximately 36 miles long and travelers should allow 1.5 hours to travel one-way!
Elevation Range: 9,000’
Safety Note: Hell’s Backbone Road is closed during winter. Visit the Escalante Interagency Visitor Center for information on current weather and road conditions.
My Journey
My journey to Hell’s Backbone road began with I enter from Posey Lake road. Posey Lake road scenic backway is almost a halfway point from both Boulder and Escalante. My trip was on 8/15/2019. Temperatures varied as I was changing altitudes. Please see my blog on Posey Lake road and the Dixie National Park.
Up in the Clouds
Hell’s Backbone Road travels through high altitudes at the famous Aquarius Plateau and Box-Death Hollow area. This region has one of the largest high-elevation plateaus in the United States at 9,000 feet above sea level. You may feel the experience as if you were floating in the clouds!
Hell’s Backbone Road has amazing stops for a great sunset and stargazing views. The views are different than most southern Utah because of the elevation. The elevation gives the mountains and rocks life with tall trees and plant life. The elevation and remoteness provide great opportunities for stargazing. Observe the wonders of the sky from the moon to the milky way. Click here for additional information on stargazing in Utah.
Hell’s Backbone Bridge is an incredible wonder. The bridge has a 1,500-foot drop on both sides creating a beautiful scenic view.
Conclusion
Hell’s Backbone gets an A+. Hell’s Backbone is a thrilling drive with quick switchbacks and elevation climbs. I did not find the drive difficult. However, I would recommend driving with caution. The scenery is different than most of the area because of the Dixie National Forest. The trees along the canyons add a nice touch to colorful backgrounds.
Hell’s Backbone is a great option for those traveling past Scenic 12. The route gives you a chance to see the Box-Death Hollow Wilderness area. The opportunity to stop at Hell’s Backbone bridge is worth the trip.
Hell’s Backbone is a great spot for sunset/sunrise and stargazing. I got to experience the sunset at Hell’s backbone bridge. The sunset at Hell’s Backbone bridge was beautiful and relaxing.
When you do travel down Hell’s Backbone road, drop me a line and tell me about your experience. I love to hear from you and your learning journey!
