Pennsylvania's Kinzua Bridge Is A Wonder Of The World You Should Visit In 2020
By Beth Price-Williams|Published April 15, 2020
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Natural and man-made wonders are found all over the world. We have, of course, the original Seven Wonders of the World — from The Great Pyramid of Giza in Egypt to the Statue of Zeus in Greece. The 21st century brought with it a new set of Seven Wonders of the World that includes the Great Wall of China and the Taj Mahal in India. Did you know that a Pennsylvania landmark was once considered the eighth wonder of the world?
Kinzua Bridge, in Mount Jewett, once held the title of Eighth Wonder of the World. While the bridge might not be the same as it was when it earned that title, it’s still definitely worth a visit.
The title of Eighth Wonder of the World fit perfectly when Kinzua Bridge opened in 1882. Kinzua Bridge made it possible for trains to transport coal in the area.
However, its impressive stats are what earned the bridge the title of a natural wonder. Kinzua Bridge measured 301 feet in height and 2,130 feet in length, making it the world’s longest and highest bridge.
Originally built with wrought iron, the bridge was later rebuilt at the turn of the 20th century. This time, crews used steel, making it possible for trains with heavier loads to drive on it.
That, however, isn’t the end of the story. By 2011, the historic bridge had been reimagined, opening as a skywalk. All that remained of the original 2,130 feet was 600 feet.
Today, you can stroll down what remains of the bridge. At the end of the skywalk, stand on the glass floor that offers stunning views of the forest floor below.
After you’ve visited the skywalk, explore some more of the cozy 339-acre Kinzua Bridge State Park. You can go hiking, have a picnic, watch for wildlife, and stop by the Visitors Center.
Have you ever been to the eighth wonder of the world in Pennsylvania? Were you at Kinzua Bridge before or after the tornado? Join the conversation in the comments! If you’re fascinated by Pennsylvania’s natural wonders, hit the road on this natural wonders road trip through the state.
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