Rio Grande Gorge Bridge
Built in the middle of nowhere, Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is a real wonder of civil engineering in the empty tableland of northern New Mexico. The Bridge is nestled thirteen miles northwest of Taos and is the fifth-highest bridge in all of the United States. Spanning 1,280 feet and hanging 650 feet above the Rio Grande, you will feel your knees buckling when crossing the Bridge.
The construction was completed in 1965, and in 1966, the Bridge received the American Institute of Steel Construction’s award for the “Most Beautiful Long Span Steel Bridge” due to its well-proportioned cantilever truss structure. It serves as a popular tourist attraction, where people visit to experience thrilling sensations and take in the breathtaking views of the Gorge.
The Bridge has also been a real suicide magnet where about 3 suicides occur annually; however, many preventative actions are taken to address the problem. Since 1997, the bridge has kept its spot on the list of the National Register of Historic Places. Adventure lovers are more than welcome to discover the full potential of the Bridge’s beauty from the bottom of the canyon while white water rafting in the Rio Grande.
- Tripadvisor Rating: 4.5/5
- Length: 388m
- Admission: Free
- Opening Hours: Daily
- Address: NM 87529
