Top Ten Most Terrifying Bridges in the World
By Sjane Bansil
Since the earliest civilization, bridges have served their purpose to connect lands for the convenience of people. Amazingly, these stunning structures continue to develop over time. Nowadays, there are a lot of bridges constructed almost every land to accommodate the rising transportation of many of us.
However, some bridges are designed not for their original purpose, but for the entertainment of people. Many bridges, old and modern ones, serve as tourist spots today. And most of these structures attract thrill-seekers who are not afraid of heights.
So if you’re one of those adventurers who love exploring dizzying and mind-blowing heights, then this list is for you. Here are the top 10 most terrifying and stomach-churning bridges in the world:
Royal Gorge Bridge, Colorado
Known as America’s highest suspension bridge, Colorado’s Royal Gorge Bridge is a manifestation of a jaw-dropping landscape. It might not be the most terrifying bridge in our list, but it measures 955 feet above the Arkansas River. It also has a total length of 1,260 feet and a width of 18 feet. The two towers measured 150 feet high, and the main span between them is 880 feet.
Even if it looks terrifying to cross, the Royal Gorge Bridge is safe and sturdy. Passenger vehicles can also travel over the bridge, but only during off-hours of the park attractions. However, oversized vehicles are not permitted to cross.
Ojuela Bridge, Mexico
Among the 50 bridges from Mazatlan to Durango, the Ojuela Bridge is the most enthralling suspension bridge in Mexico. Constructed in the 19th century during Mexico’s mining heyday, it’s now open for adventurers who seek thrill and astounding views. Having a length of more than 300 meters, Ojuela Bridge gives the feeling of weightlessness to people passing through it.
Despite its old and terrifying appearance, tourists claim that it is surprisingly stable. There are handrails and protective planks as well. And looking below the desert canyon adds thrill and excitement that gives visitors an experience of a lifetime.
Cloud Bridge, Daedunsan Mountain, South Korea
To all travelers who are not afraid of heights, the Cloud Bridge in Daedunsan Mountain is worth to visit. This bridge is 164 feet long and suspended 243 feet high over a narrow canyon, between two rock formations. Across the bridge, tourists can have a magnificent view of nature, with different trees like pine, oak, and Korean plum-yem.
The best time to travel to Cloud Bridge is during the autumn foliage. Many visitors enjoy the stunning sight of the fall colors. The vibrant burst of oranges and yellows make it a lovely experience for everyone.
Kuandinsky Bridge, Russia
Even if it’s one of the most dangerous road bridges in the world, residents, and travelers still cross Kuandinsky Bridge. Situated over the Vitim River, this old, rickety bridge in Russia has no railings or safety features. The construction started more than 30 years ago, but it’s still incomplete today.
The old metal structure covered with wooden planks is only 6 feet wide. Due to the ice and snow, the bridge is always slippery and unstable. Travelers often cross the bridge at their own risk.
Trift Bridge, Switzerland
Due to the melting of glaciers of the Swiss Alps, the Trift Hut became inaccessible for tourists. So in 2004, Trift Bridge was built for pedestrians. It’s a simple suspension footbridge that spans 170 meters with a height of 100 meters.
The wickedly steep trail and the rocks scrambling give terrifying feels to hikers. But the spectacular views leave them with a great experience.
Kakum Canopy Walk, Ghana
Doing the canopy walk at the Kakum National Park of Ghana will make the adventure-lovers amused. The canopy walkway is 350 meters long, connected to seven tree tops which provide access to the rainforest.
Thrill-seekers and nature lovers will appreciate the trail. There are flora and fauna aside from the stomach-churning heights of the hanging bridge. Tourists enjoy the fantastic experience, even if they stand 50 meters above the forest floor.
Hanging Bridge of Ghasa, Nepal
The breathtaking Hanging Bridge of Ghasa in Nepal may look fragile and dangerous, but it’s reliable and safe. Equipped with high railings, it’s not only the locals who can pass through it, but also donkeys, cows, and goats. Its original purpose of construction is to deliver the farmers’ produce to markets and families.
The bridge is considerably narrow and extremely unstable with the wind. Accordingly, not all travelers have the courage to cross it.
Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, China
Built mainly for tourists, the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge in China is not an ordinary suspension bridge. It is a glass-bottomed skywalk bridge, measuring 430 meters long and 6 meters wide. This attraction will make anyone weak in the knees as it’s suspended about 300 meters above the ground.
Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge has set ten world records because of its mind-boggling design and construction. Accordingly, the management temporarily closed it 13 days after its opening due to overwhelming visitors. It attracted 80,000 tourists per day, which was ten times the expected number of visitors. After almost a month, it reopened with improvements and updates.
Hongyagu Bridge, China
Another glass suspension bridge in China will surely make all travelers thrilled. Known as the longest glass bridge in the world, the terrifying Hongyagu Bridge spans 488 meters long and 218 meters high. It can hold 3,000 people, but only 600 visitors allowed to cross the transparent footpath at a time.
The bizarre design of this walkway adds thrill as it sways the bridge when tourists start to walk across it. The unnerving sensation of it attracts even more travelers looking for a different kind of adventure.
And the most terrifying bridge in the world, among all the bridges mentioned in our list…
Hussaini Hanging Bridge, Pakistan
The top one in our list goes to the Hussaini Hanging Bridge, often known as the world’s most dangerous bridge. Located in Northern Pakistan and situated high above Borit Lake, this bridge is not for the faint heart. Many of the original wooden planks have gone missing. Ropes are old, and the wind can easily sway the bridge.
Even if it looks fragile and unstable, some say it is relatively safe. There are still people using the bridge, and surprisingly, it also attracts travelers. But only those brave enough dare to cross this hanging bridge.
Have you visited these terrifying bridges of the world? Have you courageously walk across them? Or have you crossed other bridges that made your knees weak? Let us hear your story and comment below.