Bridges rank among the most remarkable engineering innovations in human history. They allowed our forebears to travel between regions without needing lengthy detours or facing the unpredictable force of swift waters.
Although numerous ancient bridges have been restored, it might astonish you to discover that certain of these historic bridges continue to endure and serve as attractions for tourists.
In contrast, some of the more contemporary bridges soar to astonishing heights and are not suited for those with a weak heart. Would you dare to traverse these awe-inspiring, nerve-wracking bridges?
1. Iya Kazurabashi Bridge (Japan)
In this image, you won’t find anyone confidently walking down the center of the bridge. Instead, everyone is gingerly clutching the sides, fearful of the possibility of falling.
This bridge, constructed during the 12th century, spans the Iya Valley and is situated high above the Iya-gawa River in Tokushima, Japan. It is constructed using wooden planks and mountain vines.
Even with modern renovations that have enhanced the safety of this bridge, it remains a prudent practice to maintain a firm grip. However, to be frank, the natural instinct to do so is quite strong regardless.
2. Langkawi Sky Bridge in Malaysia
This peculiar bridge in Malaysia stands at an elevation of 400 feet above the ground and has faced periodic closures for maintenance. Its reopening was repeatedly postponed, but it is currently accessible for use, even though it doesn’t attract a large number of eager travelers willing to cross it.
Shutting down the bridge for a two-year period due to safety concerns doesn’t bode well for its reputation. Rumors circulating in Langkawi suggested that the bridge might be at risk of collapsing. We’ve decided to skip this one, but if you’re feeling adventurous, you’re welcome to take the chance.
3. Seven Mile Bridge in Florida
The Seven Mile Bridge spans a distance of, you guessed it, seven miles. It is located in the Florida Keys and links the Middle Keys to Little Duck Key in the Lower Keys.
At the time of its construction, it ranked among the world’s longest bridges. It received eight awards, including the Exceptional Award for Cost Savings Innovation from the Federal Highway Administration.
While this bridge might not appear as intimidating as the previous one we discussed, the idea of being stranded on this bridge during a hurricane is undeniably quite frightening.
4. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge in Northern Ireland
This 66-foot-long bridge may appear unassuming, but only a handful of individuals complete a round trip across it. Rest assured, they don’t tumble into the water; instead, they simply find the journey so challenging that they prefer taking a ferry for the return trip.
The bridge is perched 30 meters above the jagged cliffs and turbulent waters below. It has garnered some attention from tourists, and interestingly, there’s an admission fee to traverse it. If you’re not particularly fearless, it might be wise to opt for a one-way ticket, just as a precaution!
5. Deception Pass Bridge in Washington
Deception Pass Bridge presents an imposing sight from a distance, and its imposing nature becomes even more apparent up close. The bridge towers at an impressive height of 180 feet above the water, linking Whidbey Island and Fidalgo Island.
Back in the 1900s, local residents relied on a ferry for crossing the waterway. They would load their horse-drawn buggies onto the ferry and signal its arrival by striking a saw with a drumstick.
Today, people choose to cross using the bridge, although honestly, some might prefer to take their chances with a ferry. The bridge offers breathtaking scenery, but it may not appear as robust as one would hope.
6. The Bridge of Immortals in China
The Bridge of Immortals links the Huangshan mountain ranges in the southern Anhui province of Eastern China. This dizzying bridge can be quite frightening to traverse, but the stunning vistas it offers are undeniably worth it, resulting in some truly exceptional photographs.
On the mountainside, there’s yet another bridge composed of just a few narrow planks. The precipitous drop below is quite dramatic, and if you’re daring enough to attempt the crossing, we have just one piece of advice for you adventurous souls: Keep your gaze fixed forward and don’t look down!
7. Hanging Bridge Of Ghasa in Nepal
Despite its awe-inspiring appearance, this bridge is actually a crucial means of transportation for the villagers in the area. It serves a vital purpose as it was constructed to facilitate the transportation of both people and livestock. Shepherds and their animals traverse it daily with ease.
This bridge is remarkably slender and extends far above a river valley, rendering it susceptible to frequent wind gusts in the region. The local residents have become accustomed to using the bridge, but numerous tourists find it too intimidating to cross, primarily due to its appearance, which gives the impression that it might collapse at any moment. Despite its fragile and unstable appearance, the bridge does offer a degree of safety with its tall railings.
8. Storseisundet Bridge in Norway
Storseisundet Bridge is one of the most well-known bridges and for good reason. The view from the top is truly spectacular and it is one of the most popular tourist routes in the country.
Although the mountain views are incredible, the route is also a little daunting. The bridge is often described as “The road to nowhere” as it seems to stretch into the distance.
If you’re someone who enjoys the adrenaline rush of a roller coaster, walking across this bridge will likely provide you with an exhilarating experience. Please do share your thoughts on it afterward, alright?
9. Keshwa Chaca Bridge in Peru
While the majority of bridges are constructed from wood or steel, the Keshwa Chaca Bridge stands out as it is crafted from woven grass. If you have concerns about its load-bearing capacity, there’s no need to worry. This bridge has endured for 500 years, proving its resilience.
The Inca civilization was responsible for the original construction of this bridge, and it was a collaborative effort involving a significant team. Women skillfully braided small, delicate ropes, which the men then used to create the substantial support cables. The outcome is this remarkable bridge, showcasing the Inca’s exceptional talents and their fascinating construction techniques.
10. Eshima Ohashi Bridge in Japan
This bridge is evoking a strong sense of déjà vu reminiscent of the movie “Inception.” While we may not be architects, it appears that this bridge defies the laws of physics.
Standing at a height of 144 feet with a gradient of 6.1%, it took seven years to construct. Remarkably, it holds the title as Japan’s largest rigid-frame bridge and ranks as the third largest of its kind worldwide.
To be frank, we’d prefer swimming across rather than testing our luck by driving on this colossal structure. How cars manage to navigate such a steep incline is a testament to the seemingly magical properties of physics.
11. Trift Bridge in Switzerland
Indeed, this bridge is undeniably breathtaking; however, we’ve decided to forgo the crossing.
The bridge dangles 558 feet above the Swiss glaciers and stands at an elevation of 328 feet above sea level. It can be reached from the town of Gadmen in the Swiss Alps.
This bridge has been in existence since 2004, but it has encountered challenges over the years, primarily due to the windy conditions in Switzerland. In 2009, safety improvements were implemented by adding stabilizing cables. We commend anyone with the courage to venture across it.
12. U Bein Bridge in Myanmar
This bridge might give the impression of being under renovation, but its unique appearance is a permanent feature throughout the year. Stretching over Taungthaman Lake in Myanmar, this bridge measures 1.2 kilometers in length.
Built in the year 1850, the U Bein Bridge is considered the oldest teakwood bridge globally. Today, it has become a renowned tourist destination, offering breathtaking sunset photo opportunities. Local vendors line the bridge, selling souvenirs, and you can traverse the entire length of the bridge on foot.
13. Living Root Bridges in Meghalaya
These bridges have emerged as one of the most prominent attractions in Meghalaya, and their growth has been ongoing for nearly two centuries. Crafted by the Khan clan, these bridges are formed from the roots of rubber trees, meticulously nurtured until they span across the opposite banks of the river. Over time, these roots interweave, lending them the strength to bear substantial weight, with the capacity to support over 50 people at once!
Remarkably, these bridges are living structures, taking a decade or more to attain their ideal form, often exceeding lengths of 100 feet. Once fully grown, these roots can endure for up to 500 years. The image provided depicts the Double Living Root Bridge situated in the East Khasi Hills.
14. Marienbruecke in Germany
The Marienbruecke Bridge was a birthday gift from Crown Prince Maximilian II to his friend, Marie. The two shared a passion for mountain climbing, and the bridge provided them with a mesmerizing vantage point overlooking the castle and the gorge below.
Although the bridge has undergone recent restoration, it still retains its original railings. Despite its considerable height, the bridge is relatively short, and we believe we could handle it just fine in order to savor the enchanting view of the castle. What gift did you choose for your friend on their birthday?
15. Slaters’ Bridge in England
This bridge is situated in the Lake District, which is England’s most renowned and largest national park. Every year, over 15 million visitors flock to this area to discover its vast lakes, woodlands, and mountains.
The Slater Bridge is a handcrafted structure consisting of two components: a lengthy slate slab that spans the River Brathay, connecting Little Langdale Tarn to Elterwater. In 2017, it earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
16. Royal Gorge Bridge in Colorado
Merely gazing at this bridge induces a feeling of vertigo. The Royal Gorge Bridge claims the title of the tallest suspension bridge in the entire United States. It towers at an astonishing height of 955 feet above the Arkansas River and held the distinction of being the world’s tallest bridge from 1929 until 2001.
Presently, this bridge has become a sought-after tourist destination, nestled within the expansive Royal Gorge Bridge & Park. Covering an area of 360 acres, this amusement park offers adventurous visitors the opportunity to ride a cable car and take in the breathtaking Colorado landscapes.
17. Root Bridges in India
The individual responsible for this bridge has expertly disguised it to blend seamlessly with the surrounding forest. However, the intriguing fact is that it wasn’t constructed in the traditional sense at all.
In reality, this bridge was cultivated from the natural resources found in the forest. The intertwined roots of the Ficus elastica tree were skillfully shaped to create a bridge that is a product of nature itself. The War-Khasis and War-Jaintias tribes mastered the art of guiding these trees to direct their roots in the desired direction, thus transforming them into these remarkable and picturesque crossings.
18. Plank Road in the Sky in China
China has gained a reputation for constructing bridges that can be quite nerve-wracking for tourists. One such example is the “Plank Road in the Sky,” which consists of a series of wooden planks positioned along the edge of a mountaintop.
Considering that these planks are situated a staggering 7,000 feet above ground level, it’s hardly shocking that a safety harness is an essential requirement for crossing.
What’s truly hair-raising is the fact that one must unclip their harness to pass by another person and then reattach it once they have safely crossed. Is the breathtaking view truly worth the fear it evokes? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
19. Canopy Walk in Ghana
Exploring the rainforest becomes even more exhilarating with a 130-foot-high bridge that takes you through the treetops. This adventure offers you the opportunity to get intimately acquainted with nature and, if luck is on your side, spot a variety of wildlife, including snakes, birds, and monkeys.
The bridge system was built by Canadians with the aim of attracting tourists to the park. The journey includes seven bridges crafted from a combination of rope and wooden planks. Crossing them can be a bit daunting, but rest assured that all of them are equipped with safety netting, making them safer than their appearance might suggest!
20. Sunshine Skyway Bridge in Florida
The Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway Bridge is known by locals as the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. It crosses Tampa Bay and its total length is a whopping 21,877 feet.
In 1980, the original bridge was destroyed after a ship ran into a pier. 35 people were killed but this didn’t stop people from rebuilding the bridge in 1987. It is currently open for public use but is tragically a popular spot for those who wish to take their own life.
