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Hells Gate Bridge: Oxford's Haunted Landmark

Explore the eerie Hells Gate Bridge in Oxford, AL: a historic landmark shrouded in ghostly legends and Southern folklore.

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Hells Gate Bridge in Oxford, Alabama, is a historic truss bridge shrouded in local legends and ghost stories. Built in 1930, the bridge is said to be one of the most haunted locations in the state, attracting thrill-seekers and history enthusiasts alike. Though closed to vehicular traffic, it remains a popular spot for those seeking a glimpse into the uncanny.

A brief summary to Hells Gate Bridge

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours for a less spooky experience and better visibility of the bridge's structure.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Choccolocco Park for a day of recreation and history.
  • Be respectful of the site and its surroundings, as it is a local landmark with a history.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Hells Gate Bridge is located near Oxford, Alabama. From Interstate 20, take Exit 185 for Leon Smith Parkway. Head south and turn onto Boiling Springs Road. The bridge will be on your right. Note that the bridge is blocked off, so you'll have to park nearby and walk the rest of the way. Parking is limited, with no designated parking area. Be mindful of local residents and avoid blocking driveways.

  • Walking

    If you are visiting Choccolocco Park, you can walk to Hells Gate Bridge. From the park, follow the trails leading towards Choccolocco Creek. The bridge is a short walk away. Be cautious, as the bridge is old and not recommended to walk across. There are cement blocks that prevent vehicles from crossing the bridge.

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Discover more about Hells Gate Bridge

Hells Gate Bridge, a weathered and aged structure over Choccolocco Creek in Oxford, Alabama, is more than just a bridge; it's a relic of a bygone era steeped in tales of tragedy and the supernatural. Though officially nameless, locals have dubbed it “Hell's Gate” due to its reputation as one of Alabama's most haunted spots. Erected around 1930, the Pratt through truss bridge was once a vital link for communities south of Interstate 20. By the 1990s, newer roads diminished its importance, leading to its closure to vehicles in the early 2000s. Cement barricades now stand guard, but the curious still approach on foot. The bridge's ominous name comes from local lore, with two main legends fueling its haunted reputation. One story recounts a tragic incident in the 1950s, where a young couple's car plunged into Choccolocco Creek. Legend says that if you stop on the bridge and turn off your lights, the ghostly couple will enter your vehicle, leaving a wet spot on the seat. Another tale claims that looking behind you on the bridge reveals the fiery gates of Hell. Despite its eerie reputation, Hells Gate Bridge holds historical value, representing the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the past. The bridge is reachable on foot from Choccolocco Park or a short hike from Leon Smith Parkway, offering a glimpse into the past amid suburban growth. While the Oxford Paranormal Society found no paranormal activity in 2007, the bridge continues to draw those intrigued by its ghostly legends.

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