Mackinac Bridge in Michigan: the biggest fear is the wind
Usa, north-america
48.3 km
8,038 m
moderate
Year-round
Michigan's Mackinac Bridge: prepare to be wowed! This incredible structure connects the Upper and Lower Peninsulas with serious style. Built back in '57, it stretches a whopping 26,372 feet, soaring 200 feet above the water.
Now, I'm not gonna lie, some folks get a little (or a lot!) freaked out crossing it. So much so that the Mackinac Bridge Authority will actually drive your car or motorcycle for you—totally free! Why the jitters? Well, the wind can whip up over 30 mph, and the water below plunges to a depth of 250 feet! Yikes!
But seriously, this is one of the most beautiful bridges on the planet and the longest suspension bridge in the Americas. It’s currently the fifth longest suspension bridge worldwide. The bridge deck can move right or left as much as 35 feet at the center span because of temperature changes, high winds and weight shifts. Don't worry, the normal movement is much less, and not obvious to vehicles crossing the bridge. 31 expansion joints let the segments move with temperature changes.
Where is it?
Mackinac Bridge in Michigan: the biggest fear is the wind is located in Usa (north-america). Coordinates: 39.4482, -98.5201
Road Details
- Country
- Usa
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 48.3 km
- Max Elevation
- 8,038 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 39.4482, -98.5201
Related Roads in north-america
hardThe Ultimate Guide to Mount Powell
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, so you're heading to New Mexico? Check out Mount Powell in McKinley County. This baby tops out at 8,750 feet! You'll find it smack-dab in the Cibola National Forest on Navajo Nation land. The road up, Mount Powell Road (also known as Indian Service Rte 50), is all dirt, so definitely bring your 4x4. Fair warning: the summit's got a bunch of those communication towers, so don't expect pristine wilderness up top. It's a climb, no doubt about it! From the paved NM-371, you've got about 7.1 miles of uphill, gaining almost 1,500 feet in elevation. It's not crazy steep, but definitely a good steady climb. Plus, you will find some great scenery along the way to the top.
hardHow long is Morgan Territory Road?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, buckle up, thrill-seekers, because Morgan Territory Road in Contra Costa County, California, is calling your name! Nestled east of Mount Diablo in the San Francisco East Bay, this 14.7-mile ribbon of asphalt winds its way from Marsh Creek Road up to Manning Road. Don't let the "paved" description fool you – this baby is a wild ride! Picture this: tight, twisting turns, a road that narrows unexpectedly, and a climb that tops out at 2,129 feet. Be warned: the pavement on the north side of the summit has seen better days! Beyond the driving challenge, Morgan Territory Road has some serious local lore. Legend has it that the infamous bandit Joaquin Murrieta (the real-life Zorro!) stashed his loot somewhere in these hills back in the 1800s. And guess what? People still claim to see a ghostly figure searching for it near a certain oak tree. So, keep your eyes peeled for more than just potholes—you might just spot a ghost (or some hidden treasure!). This road, named for pioneer Jeremiah Morgan, offers stunning scenery and a dose of the supernatural!
hardOxford Peak
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! If you're hunting for a killer off-road experience in southeast Idaho, Oxford Peak is calling your name. We're talking a gnarly climb up to 9,288 feet in the Bannock Range, so buckle up. This isn't your Sunday drive; the road is gravel, rocky, and downright bumpy in spots. Translation: 4x4 is a MUST, and a healthy respect for heights is highly recommended. Expect some seriously steep sections and muddy conditions if it's been raining – you’ll definitely earn your stripes on this one. Keep in mind this trail is only open to smaller vehicles 50 inches or less in width. The views are absolutely insane, but this road is definitely for experienced off-roaders only. And a heads-up: winter usually shuts this bad boy down completely. Get out there and explore!
hardHow long is Brynwood Hillclimb?
🇺🇸 Usa
Okay, picture this: You're in Portland's West Hills, ready to tackle what some say is Oregon's steepest climb – Brynwood! This isn't your average Sunday drive. We're talking a lung-busting, leg-burning ascent that'll have you questioning your life choices (in the best way possible, of course). This little beast of a road is only 0.28 miles long, but don't let that fool you. It kicks off from NW Miller Road, about 794 feet above sea level, and shoots straight up to NW Skyline Boulevard at 1,096 feet. That's a 302-foot climb in just under half a mile, averaging a crazy 21% grade! But wait, there's more! You'll hit sections of nearly 25% on cracked pavement sprinkled with gravel. Located in the northwest of Oregon, prepare for a serious challenge. The road's super narrow, and uphill traffic gets the right-of-way (trust me, you'll want it). No trucks allowed here! The whole experience feels way longer than it actually is, and watch out for moisture and moss adding to the slippery fun.