Devil's Elbow Bridge

Devils Elbow, Missouri

MissouriRoadside Attraction

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If you’re road-tripping Route 66 and find yourself rolling into the intriguingly named Devils Elbow, Missouri, don’t miss the chance to check out the iconic Devil’s Elbow Bridge. This isn’t just any bridge—it’s a piece of Route 66 history.

Legend has it that the nearby Big Piney River had a sharp bend that gave early loggers plenty of headaches. They called it a “devil of an elbow” to navigate, and that’s how the town—and this famous bridge—got its name.

Built in 1923, this steel truss bridge stretches 588 feet over the Big Piney River. It’s a Route 66 original and has earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. As one of the few remaining bridges from the road’s early days, it’s a must-visit for both history buffs and road trippers chasing classic Americana.

Despite its devilish name, there’s nothing spooky about the Devil’s Elbow Bridge. It’s a charming slice of Missouri’s landscape, inviting you to take a drive over a bit of history.

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Devil's Elbow Bridge in Devils Elbow, Missouri Route 66 Landmark

Devil's Elbow Bridge

5 based on 1 reviews

Address:

Big Piney River, Missouri, Devils Elbow, MO 65457

Hours:

Open 24/7

Cost:

Free

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Photos of Devil’s Elbow Bridge in Devils Elbow, Missouri

Devil's Elbow Bridge in Devils Elbow, Missouri Route 66 Landmark
Devil's Elbow Bridge in Devils Elbow, Missouri Route 66 Landmark
Devil's Elbow Bridge in Devils Elbow, Missouri Route 66 Landmark
Devil's Elbow Bridge in Devils Elbow, Missouri Route 66 Landmark
Devil's Elbow Bridge in Devils Elbow, Missouri Route 66 Landmark
Devil's Elbow Bridge in Devils Elbow, Missouri Route 66 Landmark

Know Before You Go

To make the most of your visit to Devil’s Elbow Bridge in Devils Elbow, Missouri, here are some things to know before you go.

What is the Devil’s Elbow Bridge?

The Devil’s Elbow Bridge is a historic steel truss bridge on the original Route 66 alignment that crosses the Big Piney River in the small Ozark community of Devil’s Elbow, Missouri. Built in 1923, the 588-foot bridge carried Route 66 traffic from 1926 until the highway was rerouted in the mid-1940s. Today it remains one of the most recognizable Route 66 landmarks in Missouri.

Where is this Route 66 bridge located?

The bridge sits on Teardrop Road in Devil’s Elbow, Missouri, about five miles east of St. Robert and just off Interstate 44. It’s part of the historic Route 66 alignment that runs through the Ozark hills and along the Big Piney River.

Can you still drive across the bridge?

Yes. Unlike many historic Route 66 bridges, the Devil’s Elbow Bridge is still open to vehicle traffic, making it one of the few remaining bridges from the early highway that travelers can actually drive across today.

Yes. Unlike many historic Route 66 bridges, the Devil’s Elbow Bridge is still open to vehicle traffic, making it one of the few remaining bridges from the early highway that travelers can actually drive across today.

Where to Stay Near Devil’s Elbow Bridge

Complete your travel itinerary and get a good night’s rest on your road trip with a stay at one of these Missouri hotels near Route 66.

Wagon Wheel Motel

The Wagon Wheel Motel in Cuba, Missouri is the oldest continually operated motel on Route 66. This iconic motel has offered lodging to travelers since 1938 and is now fully restored.

The Manor House Inn

The Manor House Inn (formerly The Lenz HoMoTel and The Lenz Manor) was built in 1903. In 1932, it opened as a motel and continues serving travelers until 1975. In 2028 it was acquired by new owners who restored and updated the property, allowing them to open their doors to travelers once again.

Attractions Near Devil’s Elbow Bridge on Route 66

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Planning your Route 66 road trip? Our Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit is your go-to resource for crafting the perfect itinerary! With over 1,300 stops, including quirky roadside attractions, historic sites, and classic diners, our toolkit helps you prioritize what matters most to you. It’s the ultimate guide to making your road trip truly unique and memorable. Ready to hit the road? Start planning your adventure now! #Route66 #Route66RoadTrip #Route66TravelPlanning

Is road trip planning driving you crazy?

Let the Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit be your guide.

Are you ready to hit the Mother Road but feeling overwhelmed with planning? The Route 66 Road Trip Planning Toolkit is your one-stop solution! Spanning 2,448 miles of pure Americana, Route 66 is packed with quirky attractions, historic sites, and unforgettable experiences—so why settle for a generic, outdated itinerary? Our toolkit offers a customizable travel spreadsheet with over 1,300 stops, a detailed eBook, and a step-by-step video guide to help you craft your dream Route 66 road trip. Don’t miss out—start planning your perfect Route 66 adventure today!

Reviews & Ratings

5 based on 1 reviews

1 Review of Devil’s Elbow Bridge in Devils Elbow, Missouri

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