Crossing This 115-Year-Old Bridge In Alaska Is Like Walking Through History
By Megan McDonald|Published February 05, 2024
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Megan McDonald
Author
Megan McDonald is a writer, photographer, and owner of humu media, an Alaska-based digital media agency. She spends her free time traveling with her husband and daughter around the US and the world.
Tucked away in the vast wilderness of Alaska, where the rugged landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see, lies a relic of the engineering marvel that has stood the test of time. The Miles Glacier Bridge, more affectionately known as the “Million Dollar Bridge,” is a testament to human ingenuity and the enduring spirit of exploration. Crossing this 115-year-old Million Dollar Bridge in Alaska is not just a journey over the Copper River; it’s a walk through the rich tapestry of Alaska’s history. Dive into the fascinating history, intriguing facts, and current access to this historic bridge, offering a glimpse into a bygone era that continues to captivate the imagination!
Constructed between 1909 and 1910, the Million Dollar Bridge was initially built to serve the booming copper mining industry in the Kennicott area.
Its creation was a feat of engineering designed to facilitate the transportation of copper ore from the mines to the port of Cordova across the treacherous Copper River.
The Million Dollar Bridge in Alaska earned its nickname from the staggering cost of its construction, a sum that, at the time, was almost unfathomable.
This investment underscores the bridge's significance not only as a physical structure but as a pivotal element in the economic development of early 20th-century Alaska.
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The Miles Glacier Bridge's design reflects its era's ambitious spirit. Spanning 1,550 feet with four steel truss spans, it is a monument to the early 20th-century engineering prowess.
The bridge's location also presented significant challenges; it was built across a river known for its violent temper and massive ice floes, necessitating innovative design features to withstand these forces. The most distinctive feature of the bridge is its asymmetrical arch, a testament to the ingenuity required to conquer the natural elements of the Alaskan wilderness.
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Over the years, the bridge has faced its fair share of challenges, notably surviving a major earthquake in 1964.
This earthquake, one of the most powerful in North American history, caused significant damage to the bridge structure, leading to a period where its future was uncertain.
However, the resilience of the Million Dollar Bridge mirrored the resilience of Alaskans, leading to restoration efforts that have preserved its historical integrity while ensuring its safety for future generations.
Today, the Million Dollar Bridge is not only a functional infrastructure but a historical landmark. It has been recognized for its historical and engineering significance, drawing visitors worldwide who marvel at this icon of Alaskan heritage.
The bridge is accessible via the Copper River Highway, which offers a scenic route through some of Alaska's most breathtaking landscapes.
Traveling to the bridge, one can expect to encounter a variety of wildlife and witness the raw beauty of the Alaskan wilderness, making the journey as memorable as the destination itself.
Reaching the Million Dollar Bridge has evolved into an adventure due to the Copper River Highway's closure beyond mile 36, making direct car access impossible.
However, the spirit of exploration is kept alive through the services of local outfitters like Childs Glacier Tours, Ridgeline Aviation, Inc., and Orca Adventure Lodge, which offer boat rides to the bridge. This alternative route circumvents the damaged Bridge #339 and enriches the journey, offering up-close encounters with the awe-inspiring Childs Glacier and a unique perspective of the bridge itself.
The journey to the bridge by boat is an immersive experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the raw beauty of the Alaskan wilderness in a way that road travel cannot match.
Whether it's the engineering marvel of the bridge itself or the awe-inspiring sight of the glaciers, the trip to the Million Dollar Bridge promises an unforgettable adventure and an important piece of Alaskan history.
Have you had the chance to walk across the Million Dollar Bridge in Alaska? What did you think? Was it amazing? Let us know in the comments below!
If you’re headed out into Alaska’s backcountry, make sure you have the best gear! We love the options at REI. And if you want to learn more about Cordova, read about this quiet fishing town!
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