Here Are 5 Of The Most Heart Pumping Scenic Overlooks In The Entire U.S.

This observation platform actually started life as a viaduct in 1882 and was eventually rebuilt in 1900 to ferry trains across the Kinzua Gorge. When a tornado destroyed most of the structure, the remaining towers were used to support a dramatic Skywalk observation area. The Skywalk hovers about 624 feet across the Kinzua Gorge and lets visions peer into the staggering depths below through glass panels. Admission is free and the deck is suitable for all ages. (1721 Lindholm Dr., Mt. Jewett)

Head to Chicago for this stomach-turning experience at the Willis Tower. The Ledge is a series of four glass boxes that jut out from the walls of the tower and allow visitors to look down to the street below. FYI: that street is a full 1,353 feet beneath The Ledge. Guests can also gaze out for about 50 miles across four states on a clear day. If you want to add an additional jolt of adrenaline to your experience in The Ledge, tower representatives say that the glass observation boxes are actually popular spots for proposals. (Willis Tower, 233 S. Wacker Dr., Chicago)

The Grand Canyon is one of the most scenic spots in the country, and there’s no better way to see it than from the steel and glass Skywalk in Arizona. The observation platform extends about 70 feet over the edge of the Grand Canyon and allows visitors to peer almost a mile down into the canyon. The platform is built out of 90 tons of glass and can actually support the weight of 70 Boeing 747 planes, so you don’t have to worry about tumbling through. (5001 Buck n Doe Rd., Grand Canyon West,)

If you want a stunning natural view that doesn’t involve shimmying over a pane of glass, head to Cloud Cap in Oregon. It’s the highest overlook at Crater Lake that you can access by car, so it’s perfect for visitors that aren’t hikers. You’ll be able to gaze over the glassy surface of Crater Lake and even spot Wizard island and Mount Scott in the distance. (The overlook is accessible via the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Highway, which is closed during the winter months.)