Over-Water Highway runs along the middle of a river valley in China
China, asia
10.86 km
N/A
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: you're cruising through central China, in the Hubei province's Guzhao district. Suddenly, you find yourself on the Over-Water Highway, a motorway that's *literally* built over the water! It’s known officially as the Gu Zhao overwater highway, and let me tell you, it's one of the most scenic drives on the planet.
This incredible road stretches for about 10.86 kilometers (6.74 miles), connecting Xingshang County and Zhaojun Bridge, not far from the G42 (the major Shanghai to Chengdu route). What's wild is that to protect the surrounding forests, roughly 4.4 kilometers (2.73 miles) of the highway floats above a river snaking through absolutely stunning mountains. We're talking about the Xiangxihe and Gufuhe Bridges, making up that incredible over-water section.
Built right in the heart of a river valley, this engineering marvel started construction in 2013 and opened to traffic in 2015. You're basically driving on an elevated bridge that cuts right through the middle of the river. With a price tag of around 70 million dollars, you know it's something special!
Where is it?
Over-Water Highway runs along the middle of a river valley in China is located in China (asia). Coordinates: 32.6511, 101.2519
Road Details
- Country
- China
- Continent
- asia
- Length
- 10.86 km
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 32.6511, 101.2519
Related Roads in asia
extremeHow long is the road to Chuka La?
🇨🇳 China
Okay, buckle up adventure junkies, because Chuka La (aka Quka La) in Tibet's Zhongba County is calling! This isn't just a drive; it's a full-blown expedition to 5,318m (17,447ft) above sea level in the Godong Gangri range. Clocking in at a mere 17 kilometers (10.62 miles), don't let the short distance fool you. This unpaved route is a relentless, oxygen-deprived beast. We're talking air pressure at almost half sea level – your engine will be screaming for mercy, potentially overheating even in freezing conditions! A high-clearance 4x4 isn't optional; it's essential. And so is experience navigating seriously gnarly, remote alpine tracks. Forget asphalt; you'll be wrestling with crushed stone and dirt the entire way. Situated east of Palong Cuo Lake, expect plenty of loose sand and gravel ready to steal your traction. Momentum is your friend, especially on those steep inclines. Lose speed, and that thin air will make recovery a nightmare. Hazards? Isolation is the name of the game. You're in the middle of nowhere, with zero facilities, fuel, or help of any kind. Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a real threat, as you're practically living above 5,000 meters. And, of course, there's the classic Tibetan weather wildcard – sudden blizzards, even in summer! So, before you even think about leaving Penzhang, pack extra oxygen, a satellite phone, and a *ton* of fuel. That brutal climb will guzzle your gas faster than you can say "altitude sickness."
moderateWhere is Mount Armaghan?
🌍 Armenia
Okay, picture this: you're in Armenia, Gegharkunik Province to be exact, about to tackle a hidden gem called Mount Armaghan. Seriously, it's like God just plopped this beauty down in the eastern part of the country. Trust me, one visit and you'll be hooked! So, what awaits you at 9,222 feet (2,811m)? At the top, you'll find a crater lake, partially filled with water. And as if that wasn't cool enough, there's a newly built basalt church right on the summit. Now, about the road... Let's just say you'll need something sturdy. We're talking SUV with high clearance, and honestly, a 4x4 is your best bet. The unpaved road climbs from 2,288m over 5.7 km (3.54 miles), with a whopping 523 meters of elevation gain. That's an average gradient of 9.17%, with some sections even steeper. But the views? Totally worth it! Just keep in mind that driving the paved mountain road to Sotk Pass on the border of Azerbaijan and Armenia and the road to Vorotan Pass is not recommended if you're prone to car sickness.
extremeHow long is the road from Rudrabeni to Ridi?
🇳🇵 Nepal
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because the road from Rudrabeni to Ridi in central Nepal's Lumbini Zone is a real white-knuckle ride! This isn't your average Sunday drive, that's for sure. We're talking about Shantipur Road, a roughly 10.8 km (6.71 miles) stretch of mostly paved road linking the tiny towns of Rudrabeni and Ridi. You'll be hugging the edge alongside the Kali Gandaki River, and let me tell you, "hugging" is the operative word because this mountain road is crammed with hairpin curves and some seriously scary drop-offs. Think narrow lanes crammed with buses and trucks, zero guardrails, and views that will either take your breath away or make you want to throw up (motion sickness sufferers, beware!). This road will test your driving skills *and* your courage. Not recommended for those afraid of heights or landslides. And definitely avoid this place during bad weather—avalanches, heavy snow, icy patches, and landslides are all very real possibilities. But hey, if you're looking for an adrenaline rush with a side of incredible scenery, this might just be your jam!
hardKhar Lake, a delightful yet rough road
🌍 Mongolia
Okay, adventure junkies, listen up! Let's talk about Khar Nuur, a stunning freshwater lake chilling way up high in Mongolia's Bayan-Ölgii Province. We're talking 2,537 meters (that's over 8,300 feet!) above sea level. Getting there? Buckle up, buttercup, because the road is entirely unpaved and a proper rollercoaster. Think 48.8 kilometers (about 30 miles) of rugged Mongolian terrain, complete with steep, surprise turns and more bumps than you can count. Seriously, you'll need a 4x4 for this one. But trust me, the views are worth every jolt! You'll be treated to dramatic vistas of the raw, untamed landscape as you crawl your way from Khushoot. Gantsiin Davaa is one seriously wild ride!