Bridges are perhaps one of the most important structures in the world. They connect people, communities, and cultures. However, some bridges are not just built for functional purposes, but they are also designed to satisfy the thrill-seekers out there. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 most daring bridge designs that can make any adrenaline junkie’s heart race.
The Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge in China is the world's longest and tallest glass pedestrian bridge. It stretches across two cliffs in Zhangjiajie, and is a popular destination for tourists and thrill-seekers alike. The bridge is made of glass panels that are four meters wide and six centimeters thick, and can hold up to 800 people at a time. It offers a stunning view of the canyon and the surrounding mountains, but it’s not for the faint-hearted as the height can be intimidating.
Located in Colorado, the Royal Gorge Bridge is one of the highest suspension bridges in the world. The bridge is suspended 956 feet above the Arkansas River and is 1,260 feet long. The views of the surrounding mountains are breathtaking, but crossing this bridge requires some courage as you have to walk on a narrow path between the cables of the bridge.
The Langkawi Sky Bridge in Malaysia is suspended 2,300 feet above sea level and offers stunning views of the Andaman Sea and the surrounding islands. The bridge is 410 feet long and is accessed via a cable car. It’s a daring experience for those who want to test their fear of heights.
The Millau Viaduct in France is the tallest bridge in the world. It stands 1,125 feet tall and spans 1.6 miles across the Tarn River Valley. The bridge is an engineering marvel and is known for its unique design which resembles a sailboat.
The Eshima Ohashi Bridge in Japan is known for being the steepest concrete bridge in the world. It has a gradient of 6.1% on one side and 5.1% on the other, which gives it a roller coaster-like appearance. The bridge is only 1.7 miles long, but drivers have reported feeling like they’re driving on a roller coaster due to the steep incline.
The Leap Castle Arch Bridge in Ireland is a narrow and winding bridge that has notoriously tight turns. It’s not for the faint-hearted as the turns are sharp and require precision driving skills. However, the view of the surrounding countryside is breathtaking.
The Ponte della Musica in Italy is a pedestrian bridge that is known for its unique design. It resembles a harp, with steel cables that resemble strings. The bridge is a popular tourist attraction and is considered a work of art.
The Puente de la Mujer in Argentina is a pedestrian bridge that resembles a woman dancing the tango. It’s a stunning piece of architecture that offers views of the city and the river. It’s considered one of the most iconic bridges in South America.
The Siduhe Bridge in China is the highest bridge in the world. It stands 1,627 feet tall and spans over a deep river gorge. The bridge is an engineering marvel and is known for its unique design.
The Capilano Suspension Bridge in Canada is a popular tourist attraction that provides stunning views of the lush forest below. The bridge is 450 feet long and is suspended 230 feet above the river. It’s a thrilling experience for those who want to test their fear of heights.
All of the bridges mentioned in this article are safe and have been designed to withstand various weather conditions and potential hazards. However, it’s important to follow the rules and regulations of each bridge to ensure your safety.
Yes, all of these bridges are open to the public and are popular tourist attractions. Some bridges may have admission fees, so it’s important to check ahead of time.
Most bridges have age restrictions for safety reasons. It’s important to check with each bridge for their specific age restrictions.
No special gear is required to cross these bridges, but it’s important to wear appropriate footwear and clothing for safety and comfort. Some bridges may prohibit certain types of shoes or clothing.