Posted in Arizona August 26, 2020 by

The Golden Gate Bridge Was Inspired By Arizona’s Very Own McPhaul Bridge, An Architectural Relic

Architectural wonders abound throughout Arizona, each one unique in its own right. McPhaul Bridge in Yuma is easily among the most incredible man-made marvels in the state, as the 100-year-old structure inspired the Golden Gate Bridge itself. Take a look:

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Also known as the "Bridge to Nowhere," McPhaul Bridge was constructed in 1929 as part of U.S. Route 95. The bridge has a rightful spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
Google/Carpe Diem
Named after Yuma resident Henry Harrison McPhaul, the bridge, which spans the Gila River, was replaced in 1968 upon being deemed unfit for the needs of modern transportation. A dam and new bridge were built, and the river was rerouted.
Wikimedia Commons/Kenneth
Not everyone knows this, but McPhaul Bridge served as inspiration for the Golden Gate Bridge itself. Can you spot the resemblance?
Flickr/ Sam Amil
A Warren-type pony truss suspension bridge, McPhaul is just under 1200 feet long. It has a main span of about 800 feet and is supported by two steel cables.
Google/Alan P.
There's a saying that things were just built better in the past, and McPhaul Bridge is certainly a testament to that notion. The new bridge was destroyed in a 1993 flood, while the Bridge to Nowhere remains intact as ever.
Google/Carpe Diem
Who knows how long the McPhaul Bridge will remain standing? It's already a Yuma relic, and we wouldn't be surprised if it stays with us for many years to come.
Google/Sam Luke
Although the bridge is closed to both vehicular and pedestrian traffic, the architectural wonder is free to marvel at from a distance. You can park at From the Farm, Address: 5158 South Highway 95, Yuma, AZ 85365.
Google Maps

Visit the Yuma tourism site to learn more.

Have you ever seen Mcphaul Bridge in person? If so, we’d love to hear what you thought of it! Let us know, and check out our previous article for more man-made wonders: These 13 Pieces of Architectural Brilliance in Arizona Could WOW Anyone.

Address: Yuma, AZ 85365, USA