Don’t look down: World’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge opens

If you have aeroacrophobia, the newest way to cross a Switzerland valley isn’t for you. The world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge opens for truly brave.

Some people look for the next big thrill. Other travelers seek the fastest possible route between two points. The Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge in Switzerland offers both, a fast route and a thrilling experience. Being touted as the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge, this recently opened walkway is a new addition to extreme travel.

Just looking at pictures of the new Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge could make people aeroacrophobia, fear of high open spaces, break out in a sweat. While the pictures of this new pedestrian suspension bridge in Switzerland is visually stunning, it would take real guts to cross it. According to CNN, the pedestrian suspension bridge spans 1621 feet and rising as high as 279 feet. Zermatt Tourism said that it is now the record holder for longest pedestrian suspension bridge.

The Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge replaces a previous bridge. Damaged by falling rocks, the old bridge was closed. The new bridge’s height was intended to prevent falling rock damage.
Of course, the bridge’s record holder status is impressive. But, the bridge has a practical application. The pedestrian bridge crosses the valley between Zermatt and Grächen. Crossing the pedestrian bridge takes approximately 10 minutes, unless you are paralyzed with fear. Crossing through the valley below would take approximately 2 days.

Even though the pedestrian bridge has a practical application, many people will go to the bridge just for the thrill of crossing it. Like skiing down a triple diamond slope or ziplining across a rainforest, some travelers choose vacations based on a thrilling adventure. Some travelers want the perfect Instagram picture, to impress their friends and say that they accomplished the feat.

Growing up The Sound of Music, the Alps landscape looked beautiful. Going to see the Matterhorn and the iconic mountain range is on my bucket list. While I might want this unfettered view of a natural wonder, I don’t know if I have the guts to cross this bridge. Too bad there isn’t a chicken version with tethers or an air-conditioned gondola crossing.

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The Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge is located in the Swiss Alps between the towns of Zermatt and Grächen. The world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge is now open for anyone with nerves of steel to cross it.