Historic Navajo Bridge

Two bridges on Highway 89A between Bitter Springs and Jacob Lake span the Colorado River - one is historical and the other new. These bridges represent one of only seven land crossings of the Colorado River for 750 miles. Construction of the bridge began in June of 1927 and opened to traffic in 1929. At the time, it was the highest steel arch bridge in the world. Travel between Utah and Arizona was much easier since travelers didn't have to contend with the moods of the Colorado River at Lees Ferry. For five years the bridge was known as the "Grand Canyon Bridge," but in 1934 the official name became "Navajo Bridge." Eventually, the need for a more robust, wider bridge became evident. A new bridge was built downstream with new approaches on each side. The original bridge remains, serving as a pedestrian bridge - while providing visitors breathtaking views of the Colorado River 467 feet below. Construction on the new bridge began in May of 1993 and opened in 1995.