We all probably have our own definition of terrifying, especially when it comes to driving. A near-miss can certainly get our hearts pounding, and hitting a patch of black ice? That can be downright terrifying. But just the thought of driving down some roads can get our adrenaline rushing. A drive along Route 63, considered the most dangerous road in Missouri, usually requires us to be a bit more vigilant.

Route 63 in Missouri runs through the entire state from south to north, traveling from the Arkansas state line to the Iowa state line, and it’s considered the most dangerous road in the state.
Flickr/Doug Kerr
If you were to drive the full length of Route 63 in Missouri, you’d travel nearly 338 miles through such cities and towns as West Plains, Willow Springs, Rolla, Jefferson City, and Columbia.
Flickr/Doug Kerr
One of the contributing factors to both injuries and deaths, on what’s often cited as Missouri’s most dangerous road, is side road traffic attempting to merge onto Route 63.
Flickr/Doug Kerr

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Drivers from side roads attempt to merge onto the highway from a stopped position in driveways and intersections as traffic is passing by at a high rate of speed. It’s common for one vehicle to T-bone another.
Flickr/Doug Kerr
Curves and sharp turns also contribute to the danger of this two-lane highway, but expanding it to a four-lane divided highway could cost upwards of $300 million, a hefty price tag.
Flickr/Doug Kerr
Precautions like adding J-turns in some sections of the highway, however, have been taken. Learn more on the Missouri Department of Transportation website.
A 2019 study by GeoTab, in fact, found that from 2009 to 2019, there were 158 crashes on Route 63, resulting in 179 fatalities. That’s an average of 17 deaths a year.
Flickr/Doug Kerr
To get a little more perspective, in Boone and Cole counties alone, more than 50 people were injured in crashes along Route 63 in 2022.
Flickr/Doug Kerr
Exploring Route 63? Don't forget your GPS.

Have you driven along Route 63, the most dangerous road in Missouri? What did you think? Is it one of the most terrifying drives you can take in Missouri? Share your experience in the comments! For a little more relaxing drive, follow these beautiful back roads in Missouri that are perfect for a scenic drive.

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U.S. 63, US-63, Rolla, MO, USA