Hells Backbone - NF153

Trail Overview

Hell's Backbone is a rugged area that bridges between towering Boulder Mountain on the north and canyons cut by the Escalante River and its tributaries on the south. The Hell's Backbone Road is a winding route that follows ridges and mountain contours through the area. The road forks from All American Highway 12 near the town of Boulder. From there, it runs west, climbing halfway up Boulder Mountain to connect with the Posey Lake/Pine Creek Road. That road comes north of out the town of Escalante, allowing travelers to complete a 38-mile loop back down to Hwy 12. Hell's Backbone Road is gravel, graded occasionally, and easy for 2wd vehicles during dry weather. It is steep in spots and it can be dangerous during stormy weather. The Hell's Backbone Road is one of the most scenic backways in Utah. In one area, it follows a narrow hog's back with sheer drops to both the right and the left.

Photos of Hells Backbone - NF153

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Difficulty

easy gravel road

Technical Rating