Can you drive through Espinazo del Diablo?
Mexico, north-america
10 km
2,000 m
extreme
Year-round
Okay thrill-seekers, let's talk about the Espinazo del Diablo – the Devil's Backbone – a legendary mountain road between Mazatlan and Durango in Mexico! This isn't just a road; it's an experience. We're talking hairpin turns galore, snaking bends that'll have your head spinning, and altitudes soaring over 2,000 meters.
Picture this: you're hugging the western slope of the Sierra Madre Occidental, with views plunging into deep ravines from a staggering 2,440 meters up. The highest point hits 2,744 meters! This 10 km stretch is narrow, twisty (think around 2,000 curves!), and absolutely epic.
Now, is it dangerous? Well, let's just say it's earned its name. Expect tight curves that might require you to use the whole road, spectacular landscapes, sharp drop-offs, and potentially icy conditions in winter. This road carves through mountains and deep ravines. Fog can roll in thick and fast, especially in the afternoons. Wild animals wander freely.
Why "Devil's Backbone"? Legend has it that when the Archangel Michael chucked the devil out of heaven, he landed *right here*, and his backbone formed this crazy ridgeline. There are lots of scary stories, and sadly, there have been accidents.
But the views! Oh, the views of the Sierra Madre Occidental are unreal. This is seriously one of the curviest, most twisted roads you'll ever encounter, and it'll take you a good 7-8 hours to complete at an average speed of 20 mph.
In recent years, a new highway with bridges and tunnels offers a bypass, but if you are up for an authentic experience, the Devil's Backbone is worth it!
Road Details
- Country
- Mexico
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 10 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,000 m
- Difficulty
- extreme
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