The original 1940 bridge earned the nickname 'Galloping Gertie' due to the visible, rhythmic twisting of the deck caused by wind prior to its collapse.
Following the 1940 collapse, the current 1950 bridge was redesigned with an open-truss structure to allow wind to pass through rather than against it.
The 2007 eastbound span was the first suspension bridge built in the United States in over 40 years at the time of its completion.
The Narrows strait at this location is approximately 5,000 feet wide, with currents that are among the strongest in the Puget Sound.
Underwater remains of the original 1940 bridge deck still lie on the floor of the Tacoma Narrows and serve as an artificial reef.
The two bridges have different architectural profiles; the 1950 bridge has a narrower, plate-girder profile, while the 2007 bridge uses a deeper truss system.
The site is a major migration corridor for harbor seals and sea lions, frequently visible from the bridge's pedestrian path.
The Tacoma Narrows Bridge consists of two parallel suspension bridges spanning the Tacoma Narrows strait of Puget Sound. The current westbound bridge opened in 1950, while the eastbound bridge was completed in 2007 to handle increased traffic capacity. The site is historically significant due to the 1940 collapse of the original 'Galloping Gertie' bridge, which failed due to aeroelastic flutter. The bridge carries State Route 16, connecting Tacoma to the Kitsap Peninsula. Both structures are managed by the Washington State Department of Transportation. The bridges are high-clearance steel suspension designs that accommodate heavy maritime traffic below. Pedestrian and bicycle paths are integrated into the eastbound span. The location offers wide-ranging views of the Olympic Mountains and the Sound.
The pedestrian path on the 2007 bridge offers clear side-by-side views of the two structures.
Use the dedicated pedestrian and bicycle path on the 2007 (eastbound) span for the best viewing experience.
Wind speeds on the bridge deck are significantly higher than on land, so bring wind-resistant clothing even in summer.
Park at the nearby War Memorial Park to access the pedestrian trailhead.
Attempting to walk across during high-wind warnings, as the path can become uncomfortable or dangerous.
