Bridge to Nowhere

The structure crosses the East Fork of San Gabriel River in a steep canyon and rises about 120 feet (37 meters) above the water level. The concrete arch stands isolated between rock walls, surrounded by boulders and rushing water.

Construction began in 1936 as part of a road project along the East Fork intended to connect remote settlements. The 1938 flood destroyed the planned roadway and left the completed structure without access.

The name arose after devastating floods left the structure suddenly without connection, stranded and useless in the riverbed. Today visitors wade through water to reach it and use the arch as a destination for day trips and photo stops.

Access follows a roughly 10-mile hiking trail along the East Fork route, crossing the riverbed several times. Water levels change strongly with the season and can make some sections impassable during high water.

A company operates bungee jumps from the arch and is the only commercial facility of this kind in Southern California. The jumps take place directly over the river with free fall through the open airspace beneath the structure.