From the Grand Canyon to the Hoover Dam, wonders both natural and man-made abound in Arizona. One of the most remarkable is the historic Navajo Bridge, built nearly 100 years ago. This engineering marvel is among the tallest bridges in Arizona – and it was once the tallest on earth! While the original bridge is now closed to vehicular traffic, its legacy will never be forgotten.
Dedicated in 1929, the original Navajo Bridge (formerly known as the Grand Canyon Bridge, then the Colorado River Bridge) was the tallest bridge on earth at the time.
Wikimedia Commons/Leonard G.
Rising nearly 470 feet above the Colorado River, this remarkable feat of engineering was the only river crossing for over 600 miles.
Wikimedia Commons/Jud McCranie
The bridge, located between Bitter Springs and Jacob Lake in Marble Canyon, replaced the Lee’s Ferry river crossing, which had been in operation since 1873.
Wikimedia Commons/MPSharwood
Since inclement weather, including deadly flash floods, often prevented the ferry from running, the bridge was built as a safer alternative.
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In 1934, the bridge’s name was changed to the Navajo Bridge, and the original structure was closed to vehicular traffic after a new one was built in 1995.
Wikimedia Commons/Famartin
While the old bridge is no longer in commission, it still stands tall and proud. Pedestrian and equestrian traffic is allowed to go across it, and it has a rightful spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
Wikimedia Commons/MPSharwood
The new bridge carries vehicular traffic on US 89A across the canyon, leading into a remote region of the Arizona Strip. Travelers to the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park use this route.
Wikimedia Commons/Ian Daniel Brown
On the west (old) side of the bridge, you’ll find the Navajo Bridge Interpretive Center, which offers a bookstore and outdoor exhibits. It’s also a popular spot to watch for California condors, a critically endangered species that also happens to be the largest land bird in North America.
Wikimedia Commons/Don Graham
Have you ever seen the old Navajo Bridge in person? If so, did you cross it on foot? Tell us in the comments! Interested in more amazing bridges in Arizona? Check out our previous article for some of our favorites.
Wikimedia Commons/Leonard G.
Wikimedia Commons/Jud McCranie
Wikimedia Commons/MPSharwood
Wikimedia Commons/Ua747sp
Wikimedia Commons/Famartin
Wikimedia Commons/Ian Daniel Brown
Wikimedia Commons/Don Graham
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Address: Historic Navajo Bridge, Us Hwy 89a, Marble Canyon, AZ 86036, USA
