The Remarkable Bridge In New Mexico That Everyone Should Visit At Least Once
By E Jamar|Published September 25, 2018
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E Jamar
Author
E Jamar is a published writer based in Milwaukee, WI. Despite being a Midwesterner at heart, you can often find them trekking throughout the states and discovering new hidden gems. When they're not traveling, you can find them discussing disability issues, cuddling their pug puppy, and checking out new local spots.
The Land of Enchantment might be in the desert, but we’re still home to some incredible bodies of water. Most recognizable would be the Rio Grande Gorge. Whether you’ve kayaked upon it or hiked beside it, this mighty stream is best seen from up above. Measuring up at 600 feet, this is one of the tallest bridges in the country and is not for the faint of heart. A visit to this magnificent bridge is in order; with views that span for miles and a vantage point that’s otherworldly, it doesn’t get much better than this National Historic Landmark in Taos.
This is the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, also known as the "Gorge Bridge" or "High Bridge."
The National Register of Historic Places measured this bridge at 650 feet tall when it was placed on the list in 1967, however, the Highest Bridges Website measured it at only 565 feet tall. Although the exact height remains up in the air, 600' is the number most have used after the New Mexico Department of Transportation inspected the bridge in 2016.
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This steel deck arch bridge runs 10 miles across the Rio Grande Gorge, offering a unique vantage point to see one of our state's most incredible wonders: Rio Grande Gorge.
Construction for the bridge began in 1963, and before it was completed in 1965, it was called the "bridge to nowhere." This is because during construction, the state had not received funds to finish the bridge.
We're sure glad they finished it, because now it's one of the most beautiful landmarks in the state. In 1966, the American Institute of Steel Construction dubbed our bridge the "Most Beautiful Steel Bridge" in the long span category.
In fact, this bridge is so beautiful that it's even been featured in many major motion pictures including Natural Born Killers, and Terminator: Salvation,
Upon arriving at the bridge, you'll find a free parking lot to pull over at before walking across the bridge for the experience of a lifetime.
The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge is located 10 miles west of Taos along Route 64.
Have you walked upon this magnificent bridge near Taos? Were you scared? Let us hear about your experience in the comments!
If you’re looking to experience more unique New Mexico beauty, you need to see what was left behind after a volcano erupted in our state millions of years ago.
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