The Pennybacker Bridge, also known as 360 Bridge, is one of Austin's most notable landmarks and a required stop for anyone visiting or living in Austin, TX. The bridge is located at Lake Austin along Loop 360 (the Capital of Texas Highway), the bridge combines a unique structure with sweeping Hill Country views. It is simple in structure yet spectacular when combined with the Lake Austin water views, which never gets old. Today we simply wanted to be one with nature. What a fanatstic starting point! No matter what you call the bridge, one thing that is certain is that you will likely admire the architecture of the rust-colored steel arch design. That weathered looks allows the bridge to easily blend in with the rolling hills and Lake Austin. It is an equally visually appealing structure whether you are driving across it or admiring it from afar. Parking is very limited along Capitol of Texas highway. What spectacular way to start your morning or end your evening! read more

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A quintessential barely-a-hike excursion that is a must-see if in Austin, especially if its your first time in the city. Despite it not being my first time here, I always enjoy coming here and taking friends who haven't been. Hiked up here in chanclas and a maxi skirt, so anyone can do this as its only a 0.5 mi hike, super chill. The view is gorgeous, you have the Pennybacker overlooking the river. Not quite as spacious on the trail or as shaded as Mt. Bonnell, but still very much worth a visit as it doesn't take much time at all to take in the views and then descend. There's limited parking at the bottom but there's a stoplight prior to this area so it wasn't hard to enter or exit prior to oncoming traffic. read more

Pennybacker Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

I do have to say it does have some amazing views. I could prob stay up there all day. I don't know if we lucked out in the day or what but we were the only ones there. There are 2, if not more routes to get to the view point but the trail to the right is definitely the easiest. If you're in the area it is definitely worth stopping for a photo op. There was signage down by the road about parking but wasn't really sure where it was talking about no parking since there wasn't anywhere else, unless it just meant don't block the path. It is nice that they have food and drinks at the base when get back, so if it's hot and you're thirsty it's perfect.. read more

Pennybacker Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

We were nearby, so we stopped by on a whim based on another Yelper's recommendation (thanks Shannon!) and we were not disappointed! As many mentioned, there's no parking per se and lots of signs saying "No Parking" but everyone parks in the pullover area anyways - and yes broken glass everywhere but sounds like they've been there for a while. The entrance to hike up was not immediately obvious as we initially went by the bridge at the edge of the cliff, but it's actually in the middle between the bridge and the street light. It was about a 5-10 minute hike, but very steep rocks on the left side or a dirt path mixed with rocks on the right. We went up the dirt path but came down the huge rocks and took our time, it can definitely be slippery if you don't have the right shoes, but it wasn't bad. A nice overlook without much effort and stunning views and beautiful photo ops! The city should just make it an official touristy spot and mark the pullover area as parking and add some signage for the hike entrance. read more

Pennybacker Bridge - Pennybacker bridge overlook - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Good old fashioned fruta cups, aguas frescas, elotes, y the occasional taco truck. Can't beat the fruit and beverages on a hot day when you're going to the overlook. Prices are $5-7 for generous portions. Hard working folks serving these delicious treats! read more

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Yelp recommended this place to us after lunch, and I'm glad we followed their suggestion. The hike wasn't too hard as long as you know how to side step up rocks. There is no proper trail, but it's not undoable. The view is amazing for photos. We went here on a rainy day, so we did not have a lot of issues with other impossible hikers or any car issues. As mentioned, there were a couple of food vendors down below, which causes trash to be an issue throughout the trail. It needs to be cleaned up. read more

Pennybacker Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

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A breathtaking view and great spot for visitors! I always see this bridge from Mount Bonnell but wondered what the view was like, and it did not disappoint. It's definitely a more "rugged" experience than Mount Bonnell, which has steps and a defined trail. This experience feels more natural, from the time you pull over from the street to park to the trails. It's likewise a short hike. On the way up we traversed the rocks (might be a little dangerous for kids), but on the way down I noticed a small dirt trail in the woods. The top is basically large flat stones. It was very windy up top but you can get some great pictures here. read more

I love this bridge. It's my favorite bridge of all time. I always take my out of town guest here. The parking is limited. It's just along the side of the street. It's a dirt lot and there is broken glass, trash, beer cans, etc. the day I went, there was a truck that was broken into. Please be very careful of who is watching you and hide your valuables. The hike is steep, but it's short. And there are paths that are as little bit easier, but it's still steep, just not as rocky. But the view is amazing. You can see the city from the top, the river, a golf course, it's just stunning at sunset. Or any time of the day. People come at all hours. But I think sunset is the busiest. Well worth the hike and views read more

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My kink group recently took a late-night hike at this location. It really does give you a pretty magnificent view of the bridge, river, and downtown Austin skyline. Doubtless you'll get some really neat photos/selfies to show off. We saw numerous couples and other folks sitting along the edge just soaking up the view. The initial hike up to the overlook is reasonably steep and rocky, so watch your footing as you alight. After that though, once you're on top and skimming along the river, the terrain is quite mild and non-challenging. We got out far enough to find an interesting scaffolding structure where you could go up three flights of stairs to get an even higher overlook. It was not particularly sturdy feeling, although I am certain it is plenty safe considering some of the intense winds that blow through Austin and it remains standing, haha. Some of our group were definitely too chicken to go up it. As we continued onward, it seemed like we were getting close to some commercial buildings and it was less appealing so we turned back and completed our trip. A bit of a shame there wasn't more path to explore/enjoy. I'd say you're unlikely to spend more than two hours here, unless maybe you brought a picnic lunch to sit and eat! No restrooms available or water. One trash can, but overflowing onto the ground. Parking situation is not the best; you pull off the road into the dirt and do your best with how the rest of the vehicles have oriented themselves. So it's a neat destination, but not particularly maintained by anyone. read more

A must-do when you're in Austin and it's free!!! An amazing view of Lake Austin and the surrounding area. We came here right after enjoying a nice lunch at The Oasis at Lake Travis. Parking is located right off the N Capital of Texas Highway that eventually becomes the bridge. You will see all the cars parked off on the side of the road. Luckily, parking is far enough from the street so you feel comfortable walking around without fear of getting run over. There's a short hike on rocky steps to the top of the hill so it doable for most people as long as you wear comfortable shoes (or heels if you're brave enough). At the top, you get a breathtaking view of Lake Austin. There are no gates to stop people from falling off so please keep that in mind if you're with small kids or drunk friends. Overall, a definite recommend to enjoy a sunrise/sunset, to show off to your out of town friends, or if you're bored and have about 30 minutes to waste. read more

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Pennybacker Bridge offers a great overlook of the city. They provide parking on the side of the street and it is a little incline walk up to the overlook. On a beautiful sunny day you will see people out on the water and is one of the best views of the city. One of the main Austin tourist spots I take visitors. read more

Whether you're a resident or a visitor, Penny Bridge has some amazing views from either side of the freeway. Trails take you to some beautiful views of Lady Bird lake. Sunsets are amazing too. Parking can be tricky but you should be able to find a spot right off the main road since folks are coming and going frequently. read more

Pennybacker Bridge - Awesome trail - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

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First time here visiting the bridge and its pretty cool. You can get a cool picture from a nearby cliff, but you have to park on the side of the road and then hike about .2 miles up the side of it before you get to the outlook. Try to come near the day, because there was alot of broken glass in the parking area indicating there might be break ins. Overall a quick hike with a beautiful view, you can even see the Austin skyline way in the back ground. read more

Pennybacker Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

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When you see this bridge...you already know it's Austin. People come to take photos here all the time. There is a small parking area off 360. Just be careful and don't fall off the cliff once you get up there. It is a climb to get up to the top. Me being a shorty I even used my hands to help climb up. Once you get to the top you will definitely be happy you did the climb to snap a photo. It's just beautiful. My photo here was taken from the side. Go enjoy this spot and take an amazing photo. read more

Pennybacker Bridge - 1.18.22 beautiful day outside - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

What a cute place to overlook the city! More of a walk than a true hike to get up, but worth it for the worth's and beautiful view! We parked in the pullover area for the highway and took the quick trail (5-10 min to the top). Definitely a beautiful quick stop. read more

Pennybacker Bridge - Pennyback bridge from overlook - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

This was a nice little view spot while we were on the way to Hamilton pool. It's a nice little hike up to the viewpoint and the views were gorgeous. It is a little tricky to park as it's on the freeway. Going toward the bridge there is a small spot on the right to park your car. You'll find a trash can with signs that say do not park. We were only there for 20 minutes and nothing happened to our car. It's a nice little getaway to see a great viewpoint. read more

Pennybacker Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

A good ol view of Austin from the top of the hill next to the bridge. Parking is on the side of the road as it is not an official trail or anything, but there is a walking path up the rocks that lead up to the spot where everyone takes pictures. Definitely not anything out of the ordinary but if you have not been up to the spot before, it is surely worth checking out. The walk up to the spot is a little steep, and it is not maintained by any means. That being said, there are almost always people there from my experience and if you are looking to take a picture or have one taken of you, there will definitely be someone there you can ask. The bridge itself is well designed and if anyone here has a problem with the bridge, go ahead and try to drive your car across Lake Austin without a bridge there. Yeah. Didn't think so. read more

Pennybacker Bridge - Pennybacker. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

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One of the most iconic spots in Austin, definitely worth checking out. The sunrises are awesome from here and the bridge and view of the city is just so cool. Any time of day going here is worth checking out read more

Pennybacker Bridge - Pennybacker Bridge sunrise - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

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This spot is very popular all the time, sometimes it could be hard to park your car, especially on weekends. People like to climb up to the point where you can take an overlook of the bridge and along the riverbank. But I strongly suggest you go deeper into the trail, it's more fun, even tho overall it's a short trail about 1.5h forth and back. read more

Pennybacker Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

I'm all about beautiful Austin views! After visiting Mt. Bonnell I made it a mission to find another sweet Austin view. Even the drive to this site was scenic. We went on a cloudy day and it was still gorgeous to see. Wasn't overly crowded and many spots for pictures. A few things to note: parking is on the shoulder of 360. The stairs getting to the view is more like climbing over rocks, it was a little challenging for me so be careful. Bring a blanket to sit in if you plan to stay for a while! read more

Pennybacker Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

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The hike to Pennybacker Bridge is not like the hike to Mt. Bonnell. Unlike Mt. Bonnell where they have added stairs to the hike, Pennybacker may require hands! The view is absolutely stunning. You can even see Pennybacker from Mt. Bonnell! Tennis shoes are recommended over sandals! The hotter months may be harder to get a good picture, solely because of the out of towners. Not recommended for younger children. The edge has no borders, this climb is AT YOUR OWN RISK. read more

Pennybacker Bridge - 360 / Pennybacker Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

Beautiful place to go hike. I love going during the week when there's barely anyone there. read more

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This bridge is quite amazing It is used by all and many stop to enjoy it Can hike up and relax at the top Or swim under it read more

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The bridge is beautiful, don't get me wrong but the problem with this place is that it is apparently a known place by police that cars get broken into after sunset, so if you are planning on coming here do not leave anything of value and honestly leave your window open just in case. Luckily we had nothing of value but it just made this experience a little bitter! read more

Pennybacker Bridge - Beware - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

Gorgeous views and a must-do when you're in Austin! I came 30 mins after sunrise on a clear day and it was absolutely breathtaking. Parking was easy off the main road. Plenty of people come and go, so you should see cars parked on the side. There's a short hike/rock scramble to the top of the hill so it doable for most people. If you're facing the bridge and walk to the right, there's a small trail that runs along the ridge that's lightly trafficked. There were speakers blasting music from the hill on the other side of the freeway and I'm not sure if this is a permanent thing. The music was nice though, and a great mood-setter for the day. Definitely recommend for a sunrise/sunset activity or just somewhere to bring friends from out of town. read more

Short climb to enjoy a beautiful. There is not much to do once you get to the top other than enjoy the spectacular view. read more

Pennybacker Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

Oh no, drat, I really wanted to give this pretty bridge a great rating. This is the bridge that appears, in all of the iconic pictures of Austin. This is the place, that you want to take your out of towners, so they could see the best in Austin. Take a moment and please see the pictures that I took of the disaster that is in the parking lot, trash strewn just about everywhere. I feel like Austin could do much better. I will change this review from one stars to five stars, if Austin **Stands**up to the plate, and provides enough trash receptacles, enough monitoring of this parking lot, and safety measures. Granted, I do not know who is responsible for this bridge. Is it a group of well-meaning volunteers? Is it the city of Austin Parks and Recreation? Is it the highway patrol? It does not matter, this bridge should not be in this condition, it is one of the GEMS of our city. Help. read more

Pennybacker Bridge - This is the entrance to the trail head Pennybaker bridge. Note the large amounts of trash strewn about. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Really short climb to a great view and photo op. We were spoiled by good weather, but I'd imagine it looks great on a cloudy day. read more

Pennybacker Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

When in Austin, I suppose... A pretty nice walk up to this viewpoint, but not as cool as I expected since this was recommended by everyone to catch a glimpse of. It really is just a view of a normal looking bridge. It's a bit tricky pulling over on the side of the road as traffic whizzes by, you might have to loop back around if there aren't any safe parking spots available. read more

A small little hike to the top to get to a beautiful scene! WORTH IT!!!!! So many different spots to take photos, and since it's such a hit, those people coming up are happy to take your photo if you return the favor. I got great photos here! read more

Pennybacker Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

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True story, bro. More than a couple of decades ago, two dear friends (one who is no longer with us, but that's a saga for another time) got a wild hair in their drunken 19-year-old heads and did something very stupid. They jumped off this steel arch bridge in the middle of the night and somehow lived to tell the tale. Actually, the first one jumped, hit the water 100 feet below in an unintended sitting position, and cracked his coccyx and L2 vertebra before plummeting under the dark surface of Lake Austin. When he came back up for air, he hollered to his friend, "Don't do it, don't do it!" and a potential Darwin award was put away for another day. Ever since, whenever we pass this beautiful, award-winning bridge or see an image of it, the topic of that juvenile dumbassery comes up and we marvel at how he is still alive with the use of all 4 limbs, albeit with a pesky recurring back pain to remind him of youthful folly and close calls. Don't you be like that dumbass! If you don't get hurt, you'll still get a $200+ fine if you're caught (and you can be sure that someone will be filming). In case you need more convincing, here are just a few stories of people being injured or worse doing dumb things near the Pennybacker (aka 360) Bridge: https://www.statesman.com/news/local/scenic-view-near-pennybacker-bridge-can-dangerous-deadly/En1TRzkvTMl4VtTduEStrN/ https://www.kvue.com/article/news/local/man-suffers-critical-injuries-after-diving-into-shallow-water-near-360-bridge-atcems-says/269-529954665 https://www.reddit.com/r/Austin/comments/32xq2y/mans_body_found_floating_near_pennybacker_bridge/ https://www.austinbassfishing.com/forum/miscellaneous-info/25531-pennybacker-bridge-jumper-drowns.html What you *do* likely want to do is bring your camera or smartphone out here to get some lovely pictures of some iconic Austin scenes from the cliffs above the northwest corner or from the bridge itself. Sunrise and sunset are always good times for that, but just about any time of day, you'll find folks out here trying to get that perfect shot. Our family has taken professional portraits out here more than once, as well. Of course, we don't do anything to interfere with traffic, cause an accident, or wind up in the hospital. We're older and wiser these days! Keep in mind that the "360 Bridge Overlook" area on the cliff off Shepherd Mountain that is accessible by a rocky 5-minute climb from the "no parking" area is not (yet) a public park, regardless of how many people you may see up there. You are entering at your own risk; wear appropriate footwear, observe sensible "rules of the trail", and be a good steward (leave no trace). If you'd like to see this space (formally known as the "Camelback Tract", now owned by the guy who founded 1-800 Contacts) become a legit public park that can safely be enjoyed for generations, check out the 360 Bridge Park site to learn how you can help. https://www.360bridgepark.com/ Be careful where you park and make sure it's not in a "no parking / right of way / ROW", "tow away", or "falling rocks" area (although you'll likely see plenty of cars doing just that). Parking enforcement has become very strict these days due to bad behavior on the part of some visitors AND the massive perpetual traffic jam that exists most days on Loop 360 (aka Capital of Texas Highway). Depending on the time of your visit, you may find free street parking on Bridgepoint Parkway (but heed the signs; not all of the street allows parking). Some of the nearby office complexes off West Courtyard Drive and Plaza on the Lake also offer fee-based parking that won't result in a ticket or worse. You should also be aware that opportunistic car break-ins are not uncommon at the "no parking" area near the trail to the top, so don't leave anything of value in your vehicle if you do decide to park there. If you have a boat (or are meeting a friend who is kind enough to take you for a ride), you'll be under the bridge at the Travis County-managed Loop 360 Boat Ramp. More info about parking fees and rules are here: https://parks.traviscountytx.gov/find-a-park/loop-360-boat-ramp read more

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There is something about this bridge that makes me smile. Could it be the architectural curving arches? Maybe Could it be the stunning view while driving across? Maybe Could it be the cool breezes from the waters below? Maybe Could it be it is free to cross it? Maybe Could it be the name? A definite possibility as it was named for Percy Pennybacker, who was a pioneer in welded structures. Besides Pennybacker is fun to say. read more

So I found out about this thing from Amazon TV. Weird right? But just apple TV, amazon TV has a bunch of random images that serve as a desktop screensaver when it goes into idle mode. While I had the images scrolling, my gf tells me that she has actually been to one of those pictures. I figured all of those images were stock photos from all around the world, I did not once think that one of those images could be visited right here in Texas. So I did a little bit of research and found out that it was actually the Pennybacker Bridge off 360 in Austin. The bridge itself is nice, but the views on the cliffs nearby is what makes it spectacular. You can park along the side of the road and hike up the hill. It looks like both sides of the cliff are accessible, as when we were on one side we could see visitors on the opposite side. Be careful when you get to the top, as there is no safety railing. The views overlook the bridge along with a golf course and a body of water. read more

Pennybacker Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

Pretty but it's a hike up and despite someone selling food in the parking lot, looks like lots of cars were broken into.

I'm no fancy big city engineer but the bridge looks sturdy enough though the color is a bit ugly. Of course most people go there for the view. You can park on one side of the street only so follow the signs. There are also trails that let you go to the top of the cliff for a nice sunset or sunrise view. It's not too bad but for older folks and children it might be tougher. I wouldn't recommend this cliff for kids though since they might fall and die and ruin the cliff for everybody else. As much as I liked the view, I should wag my finger in disappointment at some of the visitors who were smoking and throwing their cigarette butts down the cliff. I also saw plenty of empty beer cans and other garbage around there. For a city that prides in self on loving itself, it's a bad look for you Austin. On another note, on the east side cliff which is less traveled, I noticed that the path was blocked by some shady looking barbed wires and a "private property" sign that looked really shady. One of the locals who lived there told me she had lived there for many years and it was never there before and she thought it might be kids doing it so they can do some naughty things there without being walked in on. Sure enough, after sunset, I saw the usual suburban looking teenagers walking there and laughing and crossing the path. Cancel the prom Lou. read more

Pennybacker Bridge - Looking towards the East (with the skyline in a distance) - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Austin, Texas

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This iconic Austin bridge is a beautiful landmark! It crosses the Colorado River, and looks like 2 protractors as you drive across it. Long, gracefully curved steel supports hold up the freeway bridge. You come from this narrow canyon out on to the bridge, and it opens up across southwest Austin. It's a decent sized bridge! There's a hiking spot off to the side to look over the bridge if you're interested in getting a good view of it. I wouldn't recommend walking or biking across it. The bridge was built in 1982. It carries Capitol of Texas Highway across the river in style. The bridge was designed to avoid having any pylons in the water, so kayakers, boaters, and other water enthusiasts can cross under the bridge span unimpeded. It was named after a welder who designed and built other bridges for the TxDOT. read more

This bridge is also known as the 360 Bridge and goes right over the water. It's a beautiful location and serves as a great place to put in your boats or to stay up top and check out the city skyline. It's one of Austin's more well known scenic destinations and for good reason - it's location on the lake is absolutely beautiful! If you're looking for good outdoor activities nearby, a quick hike to the top is always ideal although it can be steep and rocky, so be prepared for that! It's definitely worth the climb. I definitely love this bridge and I know most people in Austin visit it at least once (although the more the merrier!) so it's definitely worth checking out! read more

Whether you take in the view of the famous Austin landmark that is Pennybacker Bridge spanning over the Colorado from above, below, or on, it is a photogenic piece of form and function. There are overlooks that you can hike to the top of from the pull-offs on the side of 360 (there are no actual designated parking spaces, but seriously, y'all...don't park like a douche and take up the space that 3 cars could fit in just because you decided to get creative with your parking maneuvers!) and they are definitely worth exploring. The hike that I did to the top of the west side of 360 was pretty short and semi-easy if you have the right shoes. There are rock outcroppings you climb up and down, so if you have short legs like me, you need to get innovative in ways to go around the higher ones. I went on a Sunday afternoon (right before sunset) and it was pretty packed. I was just shocked that people had absolutely no decorum for those of us hiking up (or down) as they just went around you or cut you off w/o so much as an excuse me! The hike back down is a little bit more involved as it is a little steep and again, for someone w/short legs, there are spots where climbing down is the option. So again, c'mon people, be courteous human beings! The view will still be there, I promise! That being said, once you get the top, the panoramas are pretty fantastic! The sunset (especially on a clear day) even more so! The colors you get when there's just a bit haze in the air are spectacular! It was pretty crowded at the top and, again, people give zero f*cks about other people taking pictures or just walking into shots, so I recommend following the little path through the bushes and finding a viewpoint to (almost) call your own. Each little outcropping already had people sitting there, but I finally managed to find a semi-spot of solitude to sit and just take it all in. It was an easy 30mins of just watching the boats on the water, listening to the white-noise of the 360 traffic and watching the sun set as the slightest of breezes coming off the water cooled the 90 degrees of an oddly hot October day. I definitely want to go back on a non-weekend day and see if this helps with the troves of rude people (especially those that were letting their dogs run amuck near the top!) because this place is definitely one to experience more than once! read more

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Am not sure why this bridge is important, its a bridge. There is a hill ridge line on the north shore that has dangerous paths to walk up, slip and fall off. Other than that, its a bridge. read more

Love this place!! The first time we came we thought it was going to be hard to climb.... I was wearing my flats and was concerned but come on that's not a climb 5min max we were on top of the world at least it feels like it!!! Absolutely beautiful love it!! read more

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