The Highest Bridge in Texas Will Make Your Stomach Drop

Key Points:

• Texas’ highest bridge is the Pecos River High Bridge, 322 feet tall, 1390 feet long
• It has variable height due to water level changes
• It’s a historic engineering marvel with a legacy dating to the 19th century

Texas, the expansive Lone Star State, is a land of diverse landscapes, ranging from rolling prairies to meandering rivers. These geographic features have necessitated the creation of an extensive network of bridges, each unique in its design, size, and height.

Bridges in Texas stand as monumental testaments to architectural innovation and engineering prowess. They vary significantly in their dimensions, with some small, modest structures serving local communities, while others are massive, towering installations that serve as crucial arteries for interstate transport.

The vast array of bridges in Texas beautifully demonstrates the intersection of necessity and creativity, illustrating the remarkable adaptability of engineering designs to the landscape’s demands. Each bridge, regardless of its size or height, contributes significantly to the state’s infrastructure, facilitating smooth and efficient transport and underscoring the richness of Texas’ architectural legacy.

In this article, we discover the highest bridge in Texas. Join us as we explore more about this fantastic feat of engineering. We will delve into the details of the bridge, its history, location, and the diverse flora and fauna around it. We will also shed light on the vital aspects of its maintenance and safety measures. 

What Is the Highest Bridge in Texas?

At 322 feet high, Pecos River High Bridge is the highest bridge in Texas. The bridge is 1390 feet long. The height of the bridge varies as the water levels fluctuate. 

This engineering marvel in the heart of Texas carries an exciting legacy, a history stretching back to the 19th century. The bridge once held the record as the tallest bridge in America.

Stepping back into the 1890s, we witness the proud presence of the Pecos High Bridge. This magnificent structure played a crucial role in transportation during that era. It supported the first southern transcontinental railroad in the nation until World War II. 

Today, the new Pecos High Bridge has taken up the mantle. Though the original bridge succumbed to the passage of time in 1948, its successor carries on its legacy. The bridge continues to facilitate transportation across the Pecos River Gorge as part of the Union Pacific Railroad.

Where Is the Bridge Located?

The Pecos River High Bridge, also known as the Pecos Viaduct, is located in Val Verde County, Texas. It is positioned near the community of Comstock, approximately 25 miles southwest of Del Rio. The bridge spans across the Pecos River, which is a significant tributary of the Rio Grande.

Coordinates

Pecos River High Bridge is situated at 29°45′31″ N 101°21′27″ W. These precise geographical coordinates pinpoint the exact location of the bridge. 

Pecos River Gorge

The bridge is nestled within the scenic Pecos River Gorge, surrounded by rugged terrain and captivating landscapes. The deep gorge, carved over time by the flowing waters of the Pecos River, adds to the natural beauty of the bridge’s location. The towering structure of the bridge stands as a remarkable feat of engineering against the backdrop of the canyons and the meandering river.

How to Access the Bridge

The Pecos River High Bridge in Texas is easily accessible from U.S. Highway 90, allowing visitors to appreciate the stunning views and appreciate the significance of this engineering marvel. Its strategic location serves as a vital transportation link, connecting different regions of Texas and facilitating travel between San Antonio and El Paso.

Who Are the Most Common Visitors At Pecos River High Bridge?

The remote and picturesque location of the Pecos River High Bridge makes it a popular destination for photographers, nature enthusiasts, and history lovers. Visitors can enjoy the panoramic vistas, immerse themselves in the natural surroundings, and witness the remarkable blending of human ingenuity with the beauty of the Pecos River Gorge.

History of Pecos River High Bridge

In the last decade of the 19th century, Texas introduced a marvel of engineering to the world. Completed in 1892, the Pecos High Bridge stood as a monument of human achievement. Its grandeur wasn’t just confined to Texas; it dominated the entire country as the tallest bridge. The Pecos High Bridge was not just a bridge but a lifeline, connecting the Galveston, Harrisburg, and San Antonio Railways and facilitating the first southern transcontinental route in the nation.

Innovative Design and Skillful Construction

Beyond its impressive height of over 322 feet, the Pecos High Bridge offered an exceptional example of the cantilever bridge design. This structural form was not only more cost-effective but also provided better functionality than the initial bridge across the Pecos River. The creation process was a feat of human ingenuity and determination.

The Original Bridge’s Lifespan and Replacement

Over time, the original Pecos High Bridge bore witness to increasing rail traffic, eventually leading to concerns about its ability to bear the escalating weight load. Recognizing the potential risks, officials in 1942 identified a location for a newer, sturdier bridge. The subsequent construction resulted in a structure that stood ready to accommodate rail traffic by December 1944.

The Bridge’s Present-day Status

Post construction of the new bridge, the original Pecos High Bridge was disassembled in 1948, concluding its remarkable 56-year tenure. Today, the Union Pacific Railroad relies on the new Pecos High Bridge as it dutifully spans the Pecos River Gorge. This ongoing service, undeterred by time and wear, exemplifies the longevity and resilience of the design.

Flora Around the Bridge

The area surrounding the Pecos River High Bridge is home to a diverse range of plant life shaped by the unique desert environment and the river’s presence. From hardy desert shrubs to lush riparian vegetation, the flora in this region plays a vital role in supporting the local ecosystem. Here are some of the prominent plant species that thrive around the Pecos River High Bridge:

Desert Vegetation

Mesquite trees are a common sight in the desert landscape surrounding the Pecos River. These drought-tolerant trees have deep root systems that allow them to access water sources deep underground. Mesquite provides food and shelter for various wildlife, and its wood has been historically used for fuel and construction.

Creosote bushes are well-adapted to the arid desert conditions. They have small, waxy leaves that help reduce water loss through transpiration. The creosote bush is known for its distinctive resinous smell, especially after rainfall, which is believed to have antimicrobial properties.

Yucca plants are characteristic of the desert landscape. Their sword-like leaves and tall flower spikes are iconic features. Yuccas rely on specialized pollinators, such as yucca moths, for reproduction. The fruits of yucca plants provide a food source for various wildlife.

Riparian Vegetation

Cottonwood trees are dominant in the riparian zones along the Pecos River. These fast-growing trees provide shade and help stabilize the riverbanks with their extensive root systems. They have heart-shaped leaves and produce cotton-like seeds, which are dispersed by the wind.

Desert Willows are another common tree species in riparian areas. Their long, slender leaves and flexible branches make them well-suited to the riverine environment. Willows help prevent erosion and provide habitat and food for various bird species.

While not native to North America, saltcedar, also known as tamarisk, is a common sight in riparian areas along the Pecos River. These invasive shrubs or small trees have feathery foliage and pink flowers. They can outcompete native vegetation and alter water flow dynamics.

Wildflowers

The vibrant bluebonnet is the state flower of Texas and is known for its beauty and resilience. These wildflowers bloom in the spring, carpeting the landscape with their stunning blue hues.

Indian blanket is a colorful wildflower with bright red or orange petals and a yellow center. It adds a splash of vibrant color to the landscape and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Desert marigold is a drought-tolerant perennial that produces bright yellow flowers. It blooms throughout the year, even in harsh desert conditions, and is a valuable nectar source for pollinators.

Animals That Live In the Waters and Around the Bridge

The Pecos River and its surrounding area are teeming with a diverse array of wildlife, both in the water and on land. This thriving ecosystem supports numerous species; each adapted to its unique habitat. From aquatic creatures inhabiting the Pecos River to the wildlife found in the adjacent riparian zones and surrounding deserts, there is a rich tapestry of life to explore. Here are some of the remarkable animals that call the waters and the vicinity of the Pecos River High Bridge their home:

Aquatic Species

The Pecos River is home to several fish species, including the endangered Pecos gambusia, a small fish known for its adaptability to desert conditions. Other fish species in the river include catfish, Rio Grande cutthroats, rainbow trout, brown trout, bass, and various types of sunfish.

Frogs, toads, and salamanders thrive in and around the Pecos River. Species such as the Rio Grande leopard frog and the Couch’s spadefoot toad are among those that rely on the river’s aquatic habitats.

Riparian Zone Wildlife

The riparian zones along the Pecos River provide critical habitat for a wide range of bird species. Look out for majestic raptors like the bald eagle and the peregrine falcon, as well as colorful songbirds such as the vermilion flycatcher and the painted bunting.

The riparian areas support various mammal species, including the elusive bobcat, the agile coyote, and the small but adaptable raccoon. Beavers also make their homes along the river, constructing intricate dams and modifying the surrounding environment.

Desert Wildlife

The arid desert landscape near the Pecos River is home to several reptilian species. Keep an eye out for venomous snakes like the western diamondback rattlesnake and the prairie rattlesnake. Lizards, such as the iconic Texas horned lizard and the colorful collared lizard, also bask in the sun.

Desert-dwelling mammals are well-adapted to the harsh conditions of the region. Look for the swift and agile kangaroo rat and the clever kit fox, which have found ways to survive in this challenging environment.

Key Takeaways

In the span of its existence, the Pecos High Bridge has left an indelible mark on Texas’ landscape. It stands as a testament to human ingenuity and the power of engineering. This monumental structure, spanning the Pecos River, speaks volumes about the rich history and evolution of railway systems in America.

The bridge continues to play a crucial role in the operations of the Union Pacific Railroad, steadfastly enabling the transportation of goods and services over the vast expanse of the Pecos River Gorge.

As we gaze upon the towering structure, we must appreciate the Herculean efforts that go into its maintenance and safety measures, ensuring its longevity and resilience.

The Pecos High Bridge, more than a mere bridge, symbolizes the spirit of relentless pursuit and human achievement. Nestled amidst the unique flora and fauna, it presents a harmonious blend of technology and nature. The narrative of the Pecos High Bridge serves as a reminder of our capacity to create marvels and adapt to our surroundings, a lesson to carry forward into the future.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Alexander Lukatskiy/Shutterstock.com

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