Tacoma Narrows Bridge

If you could take just one photo: Mt. Rainier behind the Narrows Bridge

“Blasted Lookie-Lou’s!” my Dad used to call them: the other drivers who slowed to a near stop at the summit of The Narrows Bridge. They slowed, not for accidents, but for the stunning views of churning water far below, the deep blue edging against the bushy emerald green of Vashon’s coastline, the Bayliners and sailboats navigating the precarious path through the bridge’s massive struts, and, on those special clear days, for Mount Rainier peeking out from behind mist. Dad was a stickler for safety, and didn’t like distracted drivers. Moreover he was a native, and had seen the view a thousand times. If you haven’t, head east on Highway 16, drive safely over the bridge--leave the gawking to your passengers--and get off at the first exit (exit 8). At the end of the road you’ll find The Narrows Park, a gem of beachfront with a close-up view of the bridge, where you can stop and be a Lookie-Lou all you like.

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The Tacoma Narrows Bridge is one of Tacoma and Gig Harbor’s claims to fame—or make that a claim to infamy. At the time of its first completion in 1940, the Tacoma Narrows Bridge ranked as the third largest suspension bridge in the world. But the bridge swayed and swung slightly from the beginning, until a day of strong winds just four months after its opening caused it to undulate so violently that it cracked and crashed into the Puget Sound below. Nicknamed the Gallopin’ Gertie, the Tacoma Narrows Bridge was redesigned, rebuilt, and reopened, and it has stood strong as a regional symbol ever since. Drive this stretch of historic roadway to travel between Tacoma and Gig Harbor, or gaze upon the architectural beauty from viewing points like those inside Tacoma’s Point Defiance Park.

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