Time to pull out the ol’ bucket list. Sure, we probably already have a ton of amazing adventures – right here in PA – on our bucket list already. But, there’s always room for a few more, right? Well, if you like moments that will just take your breath away, you’ll definitely add this remarkable bridge in Pennsylvania, that features a storied past and simply sensational views that really can’t be beat, to your bucket list.
Nestled in McKean County, Kinzua Bridge boasts a rich history, that dates back to its construction in 1882.
Wikimedia Commons/Public Domain The above picture was taken in 1882 during construction of the bridge.
In fact, at the time, the Kinzua Viaduct held distinction as the world’s longest at 2,035 feet and tallest at 301-feet viaduct. The bridge allowed trains to easily transport lumber, oil, and coal over the Kinzua Gorge.
Wikipedia/Public Domain The above photo is from 1900.
By 1900, however, the bridge was rebuilt with steel, so it could better handle a larger amount of train traffic and heavier trains.
Wikipedia/Public Domain This photo, and the one below, is circa 1971.
Then, Kinzua Bridge - and the lands surrounding it - officially became a state park in 1970. Just seven years later, it earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Landmarks.
Wikimedia/Commons
Kinzua Bridge, and the state park surrounding it, thrived for years. Then, in 2002, trains made their final journey over the historic bridge.
Wikipedia/IvoShandor
But, the Kinzua Bridge’s story was far from over. A tornado swept through the area in 2003, knocking down more than half of the bridge.
Wikimedia/Niagara
Today, the remaining 600 feet have been transformed into a spectacular sky walk, where people from all over the world come for the views and to…
Flickr/Richard Yuan
Stand on the glass floor and peer 301 feet to the forest floor below.
Flickr/Andy Arthur
While the Kinzua Sky Walk may arguably be the masterpiece of the state park, the park also offers plenty to do - from hiking and wildlife watching to picnicking and camping.
Flickr/Jim Mullhaupt
The Kinzua Sky Walk is located at 296 Viaduct Rd., Mt Jewett, PA 16740.
Flickr/David Casteel Click here for the official website of Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau. Or, go here for Facebook.
Have you ever been to this remarkable bridge in Pennsylvania? Join the conversation in the comments! Then, click here to read about Sachs Covered Bridge, a haunted bridge in PA.
Wikimedia Commons/Public Domain
The above picture was taken in 1882 during construction of the bridge.
Wikipedia/Public Domain
The above photo is from 1900.
This photo, and the one below, is circa 1971.
Wikimedia/Commons
Wikipedia/IvoShandor
Wikimedia/Niagara
Flickr/Richard Yuan
Flickr/Andy Arthur
Flickr/Jim Mullhaupt
Flickr/David Casteel
Click here for the official website of Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau. Or, go here for Facebook.
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Address: 296 Viaduct Rd., Mt Jewett, PA 16740
