World's longest pedestrian suspension bridge just opened in Switzerland

On Saturday, July 29th, the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge opened to the public in Switzerland. Having a length of 1621 feet, a width of just over two-feet and rising as high as 279 feet, the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge crosses the valley between the towns of Grächen in the north and Zermatt in the south.

It shortens the journey from three-plus-hours to just 10 minutes, while offering hikers views of the Matterhorn, Weisshorn and the Bernese Alps. Named after its primary sponsor, a psychologist and winery co-owner, the single-file bridge has replaced an older one that was closed in 2010 due to damage by falling rocks, a risk that has now been removed because of the new bridge’s height.

Eight tons of cables have been used by the Swiss firm Swissrope, which is behind its construction. Building the bridge only took 10 weeks, while the total cost exceeded $775,000.

The local tourist office Zermatt Tourism guarantees the bridge is safe, however they only recommend it to hikers with no fear of heights and warn visitors not to attempt the crossing in the event of a storm due to lightning risk. "People who have problems with a fear of heights, they have to close their eyes, or have someone to walk just behind," says Edith Zweifel, a spokesperson for the travel board.

Photo credits: Europaweg

Photo credits: Europaweg