“the third longest suspension bridge in the world”
The Mackinac Bridge is currently the third longest suspension bridge in the world. In 1998, the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge in Japan became the longest with a total suspension of 12,826 feet. The Great Belt Bridge in Halsskov-Sprogoe, Denmark, which also opened in 1998, is the second longest suspension bridge in the world with a total suspension of 8,921 feet. The Mackinac Bridge is the longest suspension bridge in the western hemisphere. The total length of the Mackinac Bridge is 26,372 feet. The length of the suspension bridge (including anchorages) is 8,614 feet. The length from cable bent pier to cable bent pier is 7,400 feet. Length of main span (between towers) is 3,800 feet.
If you are from Michigan, it's just "The Bridge" no further definition needed. Also a good measuring stick, we are one hour from the bridge, two hours past the bridge, etc.
Best spot for scenic photograph is from Mackinac Island. Take the ferry from the south side, for best pictures.
Also from the Upper Peninsula there are several great locations along Highway 2 as you head east to stop and take a look.
For an up close and personal view the Labor Day bridge walk is the best. There are better tours, but they are hard to get. http://www.mackinacbridge.org/tower-tour-certificates-66/
Everyone in Michigan calls it "the bridge". If you have someone afraid of heights make sure you pull off and switch drivers. Also the middle lanes are grated and creates an unsettling noise when driving over. The toll is paid on the north side of the bridge at its $4 a car. There is no stopping or pulling over or walking allowed on the bridge (unless it's the Labor Day walk).
Only thing with the Mack bridge is it's VERY far north, so takes a long ass time to get to. UP is pretty amazing though, so worth the drive and the bridge is the way to get there :). FUDGE.
This is one of the world's largest suspension bridges and it's pretty damn impressive. Great for photos, and Mackinac is a super fun place to road trip to, especially in the summer. Though it's quite popular so be prepared for some crowds.
The views in both directions are some of the best in Michigan. There's not a lot on the UP side unless you're traveling further into the UP, but even if you're not it's worth crossing the bridge for some pictures of the Mitten. If you're not alone, swap drivers so everyone gets to rubberneck at least a little!
It was a beautiful bridge and an experience. $4 to cross one way seemed a bit much tho. But it was cool to go over it.
Cross this beautiful bridge up to the awesome UP and get yourself a pastie for lunch or dinner!
Cross this beautiful bridge up to the awesome UP and get yourself a pastie for lunch or dinner!
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Mackinac Bridge
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