Wyoming is full of natural beauty, but natural beauty can sometimes become an obstacle, especially if you’re trying to get somewhere. This suspension bridge, located in Thermopolis, crosses over the Bighorn River in Hot Springs State Park. This somewhat unsettling swinging bridge in Wyoming has some interesting history behind it.

Yelp/ Paul L.
The original bridge was built as several ranches were isolated by the Snake River. The Snake River was somewhat of a natural barrier.
Yelp/ Debra R.
The only way the ranchers could cross over the river was on a swaying bridge that dangled from a 0.5-inch cable.
Yelp/ Paul L.
One day, the rancher's tractor broke down and there was no way to get it to the repair shop because it would not fit on the bridge. To solve the problem, he hired a mechanic to come to the ranch to fix the tractor. Once the mechanic realized the need for a wider, sturdier bridge, he decided to build a more practical and substantial bridge for $1,250. This new bridge in Wyoming would hold three tons.

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Yelp/ Jeff B.
He built an 8-foot-wide suspension bridge out of steel from the ruins of an old bridge and cables from the oil fields. The builder was not an engineer so he used a postcard of the Golden Gate Bridge as his guide.
Yelp/ Paul L.
The current bridge is located just south of the original location.
Yelp/ Jeff B.
This swinging bridge in Wyoming offers a unique perspective of the Bighorn River and mineral terraces.
Yelp/ Jeff B.

Check out this YouTube video by Jennifer Cheney of the Thermopolis Swinging Bridge to see what it is like to actually walk across it.

Were you familiar with this swinging bridge in Wyoming? Would you walk across it? If you have, we’d love to hear all about your experience.

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Swinging Bridge In Wyoming

Courtnie Erickson | May 29, 2021

The best bridges in Wyoming

While the swinging bridge that crosses the Bighorn River is certainly one bridge in the Cowboy State that you must add to your bucket list, there are several incredible bridges all across the state that you will not want to miss. One of the best bridges in Wyoming is the Sunlight Creek Bridge. This bridge is located along the Chief Joseph Scenic Highway and it is the tallest bridge in Wyoming.

Make sure you check out The Ayres National Bridge, which is a unique natural bridge in Wyoming. This natural bridge is one of the more popular natural landmarks in Wyoming.

Scary places in Wyoming to visit

There are certainly scary places in Wyoming that will get your adrenaline pumping and cause your heart to race. Some of these locations, like the swinging bridge, are not for the faint of heart. However, there are also many areas and buildings that are just plain creepy. These locations are supposedly haunted and will certainly be an adventure. We created a terrifying road trip through Wyoming where you are sure to visit some of the most creepy and haunted places in the state. Check it out.

The best adventures in Wyoming

It is hard to narrow down the best adventures in Wyoming. There is something for everyone in all four corners of this incredible state. If you are looking for a summer adventure for the entire family, check out Green River’s Whitewater Park. If you are looking for a unique adventure that will certainly be unforgettable, how about a hike with llamas? On these outdoor adventures in Wyoming, your gear will be carried by llamas so you can focus on the beauty of the area.

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Featured Addresses
Hot Springs State Park, 220 Park St, Thermopolis, WY 82443, USA