The United States is home to numerous iconic bridges that have improved the country’s traffic flow and improved the economy. From the vermilion arches of the Golden Gate to myriad industrious, commerce-sustaining highway overpasses, I have visited the famous bridges of the United States. There’s no doubt they are a beacon of mobility, a triumph of modern engineering, and a critical component of the nation’s expansive ground transportation infrastructure.
As I traveled across America, encountering its iconic bridges, I was amazed by their architectural grandeur and the historical narratives they represented.
The Royal Gorge Bridge, spanning the Arkansas River in Colorado, not only made me anxious with its height but also whispered tales of the Old West. The bridge crosses the gorge 955 feet (291 m) above the Arkansas River. Its towering height and stunning views of the canyon below mesmerized me.
I also visited the Bakers Bridge in Durango. With the blue-green water and steep rock faces, I am reminded of the power and beauty of the natural world. Here, I recalled memories of the infamous outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. This humble steel truss bridge was the escape route for the duo during their notorious exploits in the late 1800s, immortalized in Hollywood lore.
I recently visited the L.B. Perrine Bridge in Twin Falls, Idaho, one of America’s oldest bridges. This place is a mecca for extreme sports enthusiasts. I followed the jumpers out to the middle of the Perrine Bridge and filmed each as they launched off the railing and down toward the open Snake River. It was both terrifying and beautiful at the same time. I would love to try it, but there are just some things this big body is never going to be able to do!
Navigating Iowa’s countryside, I sought the famed seven bridges of Madison County. Four came easily, but the last three lay at the end of gravel paths. Reaching the Roseman Bridge took a 4.3-mile drive along Roseman Bridge Road. Holliwell Bridge was 1.9 miles from E. Court Ave via Norwood Ave. Hogback Bridge was accessed by a 2-mile stretch on Hogback Bridge Road from 195th Street. Each bump and turn led me closer to history, reminding me of the enduring charm and romance of these iconic covered bridges.
It would be stupid of me to forget to visit America’s oldest bridge, the Golden Gate Bridge. With its tremendous towers, sweeping cables, and great span, the Bridge left me pondering about the marvelous engineering for days. Take it from me: if you’re going to San Francisco, you must set aside a few hours to walk across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.
I also traveled over the 25 de Abril Bridge in Portugal in the late afternoon after a day in Lisbon. The views are fantastic, and yes, the color is quite similar to the Golden Gate Bridge. Standing on the bridge, I could see the 110-meter-tall statue of Christ the King stretching out His arms to watch over and bless the city, similar to Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
As I continued my journey of exploration, I had the opportunity to cross the Lewis and Clark Bridge, named after the legendary explorers. This beautiful bridge stretches across the Columbia River, and as I drove across, I was amazed at the vastness of the river below and the courage it must have taken for Lewis and Clark to travel through these waters centuries ago.
Thinking about my travels, I realized the profound impact that bridges have had on American society. They not only connect communities and facilitate commerce but also enable incredible human achievements. These structures truly bind us together as a nation.
