8 Most Dangerous Rope Bridges That Will Give You Goose Bumps
Neha B Deshpande
Are you marveled by heights? If so, walking on a rope bridge will definitely fascinate you. Of course, Such an adventure is not meant for the fainthearted. One look down and you're certain to get goose bumps. Here are some of the deadliest rope bridges from around the world.
Did You Know?
The Hussaini Hanging Rope Bridge in Pakistan is known as the most dangerous rope bridges of all. It passes over the Borit Lake of Upper Hunza. Many planks are missing, and to make matters worse, there is a broken bridge that eerily looks at the one you're crossing. And of course, the swaying winds will ensure nothing but a thrilling experience!
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We all love standing on bridges, enjoying the panoramic view from above.
However, what if you're told to walk on a swaying bridge which moves as per the force of wind? To add to it, poor maintenance, or a freaky height, can easily scare even the strongest hearts.
Those who seek thrill, and love visiting places of height, walking over a rope bridge can tend to be the most intimidating experience. Rope bridges are spookier than one can imagine, since they can easily be impacted by wind. While they will send shudders down your spine, there are some who will deliberately use these bridges to enjoy the thrill of danger.
Fear makes man take a step back. However, there are many who love to challenge their fears with such experiences. While these bridges look scary, they also do look inviting to an adventurous heart. In this era too, there are some places which need to be connected with rope bridges. That explains man's helplessness in front of nature.
Trivia
Gephyrophobia: The fear of crossing bridges.
Most Dangerous Rope Bridges in the World
So for those who are certain they do not suffer from gephyrophobia, here are some awesome rope bridges that you should visit, listed in no particular order.
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Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Northern Ireland
It was originally built by fishermen, almost 350 years ago, to fish for salmon. Though, at the outset, it seems to be a menial task to cross this bridge, walking over it can be quite an intimidating experience, especially if you look down. This bridge, which is 20 meters long, around 100 ft (30 m) above sea level, is a major tourist attraction.
Enjoy bird watching, or simply the tranquility of nature, and the Irish coast. As of today, it is managed by the National Trust.
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Capilano Suspension Bridge, Canada
This bridge is one of the most exhilarating ones around. It was originally built by George Grant Mackay in 1889, and suspends 100 feet above forest floor, crossing the Capilano river. Though it was earlier made of hemp ropes, it was changed into a wire cable bridge in 1903.
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Trift Bridge, Switzerland
This is also one of the most eeriest bridges in the world. Located in Swiss Alps, it was built for hikers. It is 170 m long, and 100 ft above sea, making it indeed a spine-chilling experience to walk over this one.
It crosses the Trift lake, which is formed by glaciers. The original bridge built in 2004 was replaced in 2009 after some wind related damage.
Arenal Hanging Bridge, Costa Rica
There are around 15 suspension bridges which enable you to observe and enjoy wildlife of Costa Rica. They are of varied sizes, and you can have a self-guided tour of lush green rainforest. Enjoy nature on a hanging bridge, but look down only if you don't have a faint heart.
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Bamboo Hanging Bridge, Philippines
One of the major tourist attractions of Philippines, this was of course simply built to facilitate commuting for the villagers. Hanging 25 m above the river, walking on it is a thrilling experience indeed.
Though it is made of metal, it has been covered with bamboo to give a more 'old-style' look.
Vine Bridges of Iya Valley, Japan
Located in the Iya valley in Japan, these bridges have to be rebuilt every three years. Interestingly, the origin of these bridges is unknown. The valley was said to be inhabited by notorious bandits, thieves, etc. Of course, the number of bridges have reduced to only three. Efforts are being taken to keep these bridges safe.
The one that crosses the Iya river, known as Iya no Kazurabashi, is 45 m long, and is positioned 14 m above the water. Another pair of bridges are called Oku Iya Double Vine Bridge. One look at the bridge is spooky enough.
Suspension Bridge of Taman Negara, Malaysia
The canopy walk of Taman Negara is 510 m long, making it one of the longest bridges in the world. The Taman Negara National Park is one of the major tourist attractions in Malaysia. You can enjoy the flora and fauna of this forest while traveling on the bridge.
Canopy Walk in Kakum, Ghana
Kakum National Park has canopy walkways to facilitate tourists to enjoy the view of the forests. Some of these canopies are positioned as high as 40 m, guaranteed to give you a thrilling experience! Of course, it is well protected with safety nets and hand rails, yet, it is intimidating enough to scare anyone.
Rope bridges are a proof that, despite sophisticated machinery and development in architecture, nature maintains its supreme power. Though the best efforts are taken to ensure safety, rope bridges can easily be subjected to damage due to wrath of nature.