North Carolina has a varied landscape that goes from mountains to the coast. It has some of the most impressive bridges in the country. In this blog post, we will explore the seven tallest bridges in North Carolina and learn interesting information about each one.
The Peter Guice Memorial Bridge
The Peter Guice Memorial Bridge is located in Henderson County, North Carolina. It is the highest bridge in the state and the third-highest among interstate highway bridges in the Eastern United States. This bridge was built in 1972 and is located 225 feet above the Green River Gorge. It carries traffic for I-26 and US 74. The bridge is named after Peter Guice, who built the first wooden bridge in the gorge in 1820.
The Laurel Creek Gorge Bridge
The Laurel Creek Gorge Bridge is the second-highest bridge in North Carolina, reaching a height of 220 feet. The highest bridge along the Blue Ridge Parkway is located in Buncombe County. It provides beautiful views of the mountains and a trout stream below. The bridge was finished in 2002 and it is used by drivers on I-26, US 19, and US 23 to travel between Asheville and Johnson City.
Linn Cove Viaduct
The Linn Cove Viaduct is a bridge in Avery County. It is the third-highest bridge in the state and stands 153 feet above the slopes of Grandfather Mountain. The bridge, which was finished in 1987, is a famous and highly regarded structure on the Blue Ridge Parkway. It has received awards for its impressive engineering and beautiful design. The parkway was finished, and it was designed to have as little impact on the mountain’s environment as possible.
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Cape Fear Memorial Bridge
The Cape Fear Memorial Bridge is the fourth-highest bridge in North Carolina. It stands 150 feet tall above the Cape Fear River. This steel bridge connects New Hanover County and Brunswick County. It was opened in 1969 and supports traffic for US 17 Business, US 76, and US 421. The lift span of the bridge rises 135 feet to allow ships to pass through. This makes it a well-known landmark in Wilmington and represents the city’s maritime history.
The Bunker Hill Covered Bridge
The Bunker Hill Covered Bridge is the fifth-highest bridge and it crosses the west fork of the Little River in Catawba County. The wooden bridge was built in 1895 and stands at a height of 85 feet. It has a unique Haupt truss design. This bridge is known as a National Civil Engineering Landmark. It is open for pedestrians and is one of only two covered bridges in the state.
The Ole Gilliam Mill Park Covered Bridge
The Ole Gilliam Mill Park Covered Bridge is the longest covered bridge in the state, reaching a height of 80 feet. It is currently in the sixth position. This wooden bridge is located in Lee County and crosses the Little River. It was built in 1997 as a replica of the original bridge that was destroyed in a flood in 1996. The area is open to both people walking and vehicles. It is a roadside park that includes a restored grist mill, picnic area, and playground.
The Deep River Camelback Truss Bridge
The Deep River Camelback Truss Bridge is the seventh tallest bridge in North Carolina. It is 75 feet tall and crosses the Deep River in Chatham County. The bridge was built in 1901 and is the oldest metal bridge in the state. Its camelback truss design makes it unique. The trail is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is closed to traffic. It is used by pedestrians and cyclists.
In summary
North Carolina has many bridges that are built over gorges, rivers, and beautiful landscapes. These bridges show the state’s impressive engineering skills, interesting history, and lively culture. Whether you’re driving, biking, or walking, exploring the stories and views of these seven highest bridges is an exciting journey through North Carolina’s remarkable landmarks.
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