Hochdonn High Bridge

The Hochdonn High Bridge is a steel railway crossing that spans 2,218 meters across the canal and carries two railway tracks at 56 meters above water level. The structure uses a truss-based design throughout its entire length.

Construction began in 1913 as a replacement for an older swing bridge and was completed in June 1920. This newer design has provided more reliable rail service without the delays that manual operation once caused.

The municipal coat of arms of Burg-Sankt Michaelisdonn features the bridge, reflecting how central it is to local identity. Residents view this structure as an important part of their regional heritage and community memory.

Ships can pass underneath thanks to a 42-meter clearance above the water line. Visitors can best observe the structure from the surrounding banks and access points for clear viewing and photography.

The steel structure was assembled using approximately five million rivets, a labor-intensive technique largely replaced by modern welding today. These rivets remain visible on close inspection and show how early bridge builders worked.

Location: Hochdonn

Official opening: June 1, 1920

Height: 56.38 m

Length: 2,218 m

Made from material: steel

Part of: Elmshorn - Westerland railway line

Address: Nord-Ostsee-Kanal

GPS coordinates: 54.01610,9.29750

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:52