Devil's Elbow

How to Get There

From St. Robert (14 mi): Take Historic Route 66 east through Pulaski County, then follow Teardrop Road and Route Z to the community situated along the Big Piney River near the historic Route 66 bridge.

Overview

Devil's Elbow is one of the most picturesque and historically significant stops along Missouri's stretch of Historic Route 66. Nestled beside a sharp bend in the Big Piney River from which it takes its name, the community emerged during the late nineteenth century as a railroad and lumber settlement before becoming a thriving stop on the Mother Road. The town's most recognizable landmark is the 1923 steel through-truss bridge that carried Route 66 traffic across the river and remains one of the most photographed bridges on the entire highway. The surrounding Ozark hills, river bluffs, and winding roads create a dramatic landscape that feels largely unchanged from the highway's golden era.

Route 66 transformed the small community into a bustling destination for travelers, fishermen, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreation along the river. Historic buildings, roadside businesses, and remnants of early highway infrastructure continue to reflect the character of a classic Route 66 town. Today, visitors come to admire the famous bridge, enjoy kayaking and fishing on the Big Piney River, and experience one of the most authentic surviving sections of the Mother Road. The combination of natural beauty, engineering history, and transportation heritage makes Devil's Elbow a memorable destination for anyone exploring Missouri's Route 66 corridor.