Astoria-Megler Bridge
The longest continuous truss bridge in North America, connecting Oregon and Washington over the mighty Columbia River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less traffic, better light for photos
Astoria-Megler Bridge
Best Time
Less traffic, better light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The longest continuous truss bridge in North America, connecting Oregon and Washington over the mighty Columbia River.
"A stunning landmark and a must-see when visiting the Oregon Coast."
Check Wind Alerts
High winds can make driving on the bridge intense. Always check local alerts before crossing.
Drive Carefully
The bridge has no shoulder and can have heavy traffic. Be aware of your surroundings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Span
Entire length of the bridge
Experience the longest continuous truss bridge in North America, a marvel of engineering connecting Oregon and Washington.
Foggy River Views
Columbia River
Witness the dramatic sight of the bridge emerging from thick fog, creating an ethereal and moody atmosphere.
Engineering Spectacle
Bridge structure
Appreciate the sheer scale and design of this iconic green steel structure, a true feat of 1960s engineering.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Elements
Timing is Key for Traffic
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Wind Alerts
High winds can make driving on the bridge intense. Always check local alerts before crossing.
Drive Carefully
The bridge has no shoulder and can have heavy traffic. Be aware of your surroundings.
Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning shots from the Astoria waterfront or viewpoints on either side.
Pedestrian Event
Look out for the annual Great Columbia Crossing event for a unique walking experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Wind Alerts
High winds can make driving on the bridge intense. Always check local alerts before crossing.
Drive Carefully
The bridge has no shoulder and can have heavy traffic. Be aware of your surroundings.
Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning shots from the Astoria waterfront or viewpoints on either side.
Pedestrian Event
Look out for the annual Great Columbia Crossing event for a unique walking experience.
No Tolls!
Enjoy the scenic drive as crossing the bridge is completely free.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Astoria-Megler Bridge as a stunning landmark and an impressive feat of engineering. The scenic drive, dramatic views, and the sheer scale of the structure are major highlights. While some find the wind and traffic a bit intense, most agree it's a must-experience part of any Pacific Northwest road trip.
"The Astoria–Megler Bridge is a stunning landmark and a must-see when visiting the Oregon Coast. Stretching over four miles across the Columbia River, it’s the longest continuous truss bridge in North America and an impressive sight in itself. The green steel structure contrasts beautifully with the blue waters below, making it a fantastic spot for photos.
From the Astoria waterfront, you can watch massive cargo ships and fishing vessels navigate the river, with the bridge creating a dramatic backdrop. The nearby Columbia River Maritime Museum adds to the experience, giving context to the river’s rich history. Whether you’re driving across, photographing it from the shore, or exploring the riverfront, the bridge offers iconic views and a real sense of scale."
Sid
"An impressive drive with scenic views!
Crossing the Astoria-Megler Bridge was a highlight of the trip. The bridge stretches over 6 km (4 miles) and offers stunning views of the Columbia River and surrounding coastline. The structure itself is a unique mix of engineering and beauty, especially on a moody, overcast day like when we visited.
It's a smooth, easy drive, and a great way to enter or leave Astoria. Definitely worth experiencing if you're road-tripping along the Pacific Northwest."
Gabriel Dalton
"Would you dare to drive across a bridge in 100 mph winds?
Welcome to the Astoria–Megler Bridge, the longest continuous truss bridge in North America — stretching 4.1 miles over the mouth of the mighty Columbia River, where wind gusts have been strong enough to shake cars and terrify even seasoned drivers.
Built in 1966, people once mocked it as “The Bridge to Nowhere”. Today, it’s a stunning gateway between Oregon and Washington — and a symbol of Pacific Northwest grit.
🎬 It’s been featured in movies like “Short Circuit” and “Kindergarten Cop” — because yes, this bridge has main-character energy.
For years, the Great Columbia Crossing let people walk the entire span — a once-a-year chance to experience the bridge on foot (no cars, just you and the view!).
And no tolls. Not then. Not now.
Just open road, wild weather, and a view that’ll stick with you.
➡️ Follow us for more epic places and strange stories across the Northwest.
💙 Thanks for liking this post!"
Exploring the Northwest
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Astoria-Megler Bridge is easily accessible via U.S. Highway 101, connecting Astoria, Oregon, on the south side to Megler, Washington, on the north side. It's a prominent landmark and a key route for exploring the Pacific Northwest.
Public transportation directly to the bridge itself is limited. It's primarily designed for vehicular traffic. Most visitors access it by car or motorcycle.
While there isn't a dedicated pedestrian or bike lane for daily use, the bridge is sometimes closed to vehicles for special events like the Great Columbia Crossing, allowing pedestrians and cyclists to experience it.
Driving across offers a direct experience, but for stunning views and photos, consider viewpoints along the Astoria waterfront or from nearby parks. Aerial views are also spectacular.
The bridge is approximately 4.1 miles (6.5 km) long. The crossing itself usually takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic and how often you stop to admire the views. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tolls to cross the Astoria-Megler Bridge. It's a free crossing, making it an accessible part of any road trip.
The Astoria-Megler Bridge is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for vehicular traffic.
No special permit is required to drive across the Astoria-Megler Bridge. Standard driver's licenses and vehicle registration are sufficient.
Generally, standard passenger vehicles, trucks, and motorcycles are allowed. Oversized loads may require special permits or escorts. Always check with local authorities for specific restrictions.
Stopping on the bridge is generally not permitted due to safety and traffic flow. Designated viewpoints are available on either side of the bridge for parking and photography.
📸 📸 Photography
Excellent photo opportunities exist from the Astoria waterfront, looking east towards the bridge. The Washington side also offers views. Aerial shots are particularly dramatic.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light, but the bridge is also striking on moody, foggy days, which are common in the region.
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local restrictions. If you plan to fly a drone, ensure you have the necessary authorization and adhere to all rules.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the bridge's scale. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or distant shots. Consider a tripod for low-light or foggy conditions.
It's unsafe and illegal to take photos while driving. Pull over at designated viewpoints or wait until you've crossed to capture your shots.
🎫 💨 Weather & Conditions
Yes, fog is very common, especially in the mornings and during certain seasons, creating a dramatic and sometimes mysterious atmosphere. +1
The bridge is designed to withstand high winds, with gusts sometimes reaching over 100 mph. Drivers can experience significant wind buffeting.
Slow down, keep a firm grip on the steering wheel, and stay in your lane. Be aware of other vehicles, especially larger ones, that might be affected.
The bridge is engineered for harsh conditions, but extreme weather can still pose challenges. Always check local weather advisories before your trip.
Some visitors have noted an unusual number of dead birds scattered along the road on the bridge, which can be a peculiar sight. [^Reviews]
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While stopping on the bridge isn't possible, the Astoria side offers waterfront areas where families can park, enjoy views of the bridge, and learn about maritime history at the nearby Columbia River Maritime Museum. Keep an eye on the weather, as strong winds can be a factor, and ensure children are securely buckled in.
🚗 Road Trippers
+1Plan to cross during daylight hours for the best views, and consider stopping in Astoria or on the Washington side for photo opportunities. Be prepared for potential traffic, especially during peak travel seasons, and always check weather conditions, as wind can be a significant factor. The free crossing makes it an easy addition to any itinerary.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Explore viewpoints from the Astoria waterfront for classic shots, or consider aerial perspectives (with proper FAA authorization) for a truly unique angle. The bridge's appearance changes dramatically with the weather, from foggy mystique to clear, expansive vistas. Don't forget to capture the scale by including elements like ships or vehicles in your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Engineering Marvel: The Astoria-Megler Bridge
Initially, some locals referred to it as the "Bridge to Nowhere" due to its remote location and the challenging conditions it was built to overcome. However, it quickly became a vital artery, connecting Oregon and Washington and opening up new possibilities for trade and tourism. Its construction was a significant undertaking, involving complex underwater foundations and the assembly of massive steel sections. [^Reviews]
Today, the bridge stands as an iconic symbol of the Pacific Northwest, admired for both its functional necessity and its striking visual presence against the backdrop of the river and coast. It has even been featured in films, adding to its cultural significance. [^Reviews]
Driving Experience and Safety
It's crucial to be prepared for these conditions. Drivers are advised to maintain a steady speed, keep both hands on the wheel, and be aware of other traffic, especially larger vehicles like trucks that might be more susceptible to wind. The bridge has two lanes in each direction but lacks a shoulder, meaning there's no safe place to pull over if you encounter issues.
For those who find the experience particularly daunting, it's worth noting that the bridge is a critical connection, and planning your crossing during less busy times, like early mornings or late evenings, can help mitigate stress from traffic.
Photography and Scenic Views
Prime photography spots include the Astoria waterfront, where you can capture the bridge with the river and potentially passing ships in the foreground. The Columbia River Maritime Museum nearby also offers context and views. For those seeking unique perspectives, aerial photography, with proper authorization, can reveal the bridge's impressive scale and its integration with the natural landscape.
Consider visiting during different times of day and in various weather conditions to capture its diverse moods. Foggy mornings can create an ethereal, almost mystical scene, while clear days offer sweeping panoramic views. The bridge's presence is a constant, powerful element in the Pacific Northwest scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit