World’s Tallest Bridge Officially Opens to Traffic, Cutting Travel Time from 2 Hours Down to 2 Minutes

The Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge in southern China has officially opened to traffic, setting a new world record as the tallest bridge on the planet.

Towering about 2,050 feet above the Beipan River, the bridge surpasses all others in height, according to NBC News and CNN. Located in Guizhou province, the massive structure welcomed drivers on Sunday, Sept. 28.

Construction took nearly four years to complete, and the results are dramatic. The bridge now links popular tourist destinations in the area and reduces travel time across the canyon from two hours to just two minutes, NBC News reported, citing local officials.

Stretching 4,600 feet in length, it also holds the record for the longest bridge in a mountainous region, according to NBC News.

The Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge dethrones another engineering marvel in the same province, the Beipanjiang Bridge, which previously claimed the title of world’s tallest.

The project was designed not only to improve travel efficiency but also to boost tourism and regional economic growth. One tower features a coffee shop more than 2,600 feet above the river, accessible by a high-speed elevator that offers breathtaking views.

Visitors can also experience thrill-seeking attractions, including bungee jumping from the bridge or walking across a glass walkway suspended 1,900 feet in the air.

In the U.S., the Royal Gorge Bridge in southern Colorado remains the nation’s highest bridge, standing 956 feet above the Arkansas River. Built in just seven months, it opened in 1929 and held the world record until 2001.