The words “wiggly” and “bridge” used together in the same sentence would likely raise caution. But not in the case of Wiggly Bridge, where tourists and locals are drawn to visit the famous bridge.
Wiggly Bridge, earning its name from its wiggly-wobbly nature, is cited as the world’s shortest suspension bridge. It’s just 75 feet long and 5 feet wide. The bridge is raised approximately 15 feet off the ground, although the exact height is not confirmed.
About Wiggly Bridge
Constructed in the 1930s, the bridge spans an estuary between the York River and Barrell Mill Pond. During high tide, the saltwater flows freely below the bridge, and it’s all drained away at low tide, revealing the mudflats below. The 75-foot-long bridge stems from two tiny suspension towers painted in a gorgeous emerald green color. The 5-foot wide wooden planks take under 1 minute to cross, and the bridge wiggles and wobbles with movement. Don’t be alarmed; that’s how it’s built!
The thin steel cables and suspension design make the wooden deck sway as people cross it. The name “Wiggly Bridge” was reportedly coined by a group of Girl Scouts who were crossing the bridge in the 1940s.
A hidden gem of York
Wiggly Bridge is off the beaten path, so it’s sometimes hard to find. The bridge is accessible from Fisherman’s Walk in York, Maine. Once you cross over, you’ll reach a wooded peninsula home to the George Marshall Store Gallery, a Maine artists gallery.
What is a suspension bridge?
A suspension bridge uses steel cables to connect roadways between tall towers. The materials used and the weight of the deck and cables significantly impact the sturdiness of the bridge. The wooden composition of Wiggly Bridge’s deck is what makes it wobbly. However, suspension bridges are also used in major roadways such as the Brooklyn Bridge and famous Golden Gate Bridge.