Navajo Bridge is a must-see historic stop along the Colorado River on your way to Lee’s Ferry, Jacob’s Lake, or the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. The views are incredible, and the chances of seeing a California Condor are high. In addition to the sights, the bridge is also a great place to buy authentic Native American souvenirs such as jewelry and pottery.
A History of the Navajo Bridges
The Original Grand Canyon Bridge
In the 1800s, Utah pioneers began expanding their settlements into Arizona, and Lees Ferry was the only place to cross the Colorado River. The route was very popular. In the 1920s, automobiles started using Lees Ferry, and soon, it was time to find an easier way for vehicles to cross.
Construction of the bridge (called the Grand Canyon Bridge at that time) started in 1927. Shortly after construction began, one of the ferries sank and killed three men. Because of the accident, and the fact that the bridge was almost complete, Lees Ferry stopped its operation.
It took several months to complete the bridge, and during that time, people had to travel 800 miles around the canyon to reach the other side of the river. In 1929, the bridge was opened to traffic; at that time, it was the highest steel arch bridge in the world. In 1934, the Arizona legislature changed the bridge’s official name to Navajo Bridge.
A New Navajo Bridge
The original bridge served the area for 66 years. As automobiles and trucks became larger, wider, and heavier, the need for a stronger bridge became evident. The historic bridge was only 18 feet wide and had a 40-ton limit. The time had come to replace the historic bridge. The new Navajo Bridge, which is still in use today, was built right next to the original bridge. The historic bridge was kept as a pedestrian bridge that would provide visitors with an excellent view of the Colorado River.
Condor Viewing Beneath Navajo Bridge
California Condors are one of the rarest birds in the world. They are the largest wild bird in North America, with a wingspan of 91/2 feet. The California Condor was placed on the endangered species list in 1967. By 1982, there were only 22 condors left. Today, there are over 500 healthy birds living in the wild, and more than 100 live near the Vermillion Cliffs!
The Condors commonly hang out on the historic Navajo Bridge. It’s common to see a couple if you walk along the bridge and look down. When looking at the birds, you might notice a number. Every bird that is released into the wild has an individual number tag and two radio transmitters. Each day, around ten biologists monitor their progress.
Navajo Bridge Visitor Center
There is a visitor center near the bridge that provides information about the area’s history, geology, and wildlife. There are also vendors selling authentic Native American Jewelry.
Fun Fact
Navajo Bridge is the only bridge spanning the Grand Canyon, not counting the Hoover or Glen Canyon Dam.
Hikes Near Navajo Bridge
There isn’t a lot of hiking to be done directly from Navajo Bridge, but there is a lot of hiking available nearby. When visiting Navajo Bridge, be sure to walk across the old bridge and take in the views. If you’re lucky, you’ll see some condors resting underneath it.
Once you finish checking out the sights, you should consider checking out some of the nearby trails and stops listed below.
Cathedral Wash
Cathedral Wash is a fun and beautiful hike amid the stunning scenery of Marble Canyon in northern Arizona. The difficulty level is considered moderate, with some uneven terrain and occasional obstacles along the route. The trail typically spans approximately 3.5 miles round trip.
Cliff Dwellers
The Cliff Dwellers is an easy-to-access roadside attraction with an exciting story. It is located off Highway 89A in Marble Canyon near the entrance to Lee’s Ferry. You will see massive boulders all around, and then you will see a house-like structure made out of a boulder and other small rocks. Cliff Dwellers is a fun place to take a picture, and there are usually pottery and jewelry stands nearby if you’re looking for souvenirs. Most people spend 5-20 minutes checking the area out.
Lee’s Ferry
Lees Ferry is a historic site located in northern Arizona near the beginning of the Grand Canyon. It is the starting point for river rafting trips down the Colorado River and is known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural history. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the riverbanks or hike a nearby trail.
Lonely Dell Ranch
Lonely Dell Ranch, located near Lees Ferry in northern Arizona, offers a glimpse into the region’s rich pioneer history. This historic site features well-preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including a ranch house, barn, and schoolhouse. Exploring Lonely Dell Ranch is considered easy, as visitors can enjoy walks around the historic buildings and grounds. Interpretive signs provide information about the history of the ranch and its inhabitants. Most visitors spend around 30 minutes to an hour exploring the site and scenery.
Spencer Trail
Spencer Trail near Lees Ferry offers a scenic and challenging hike with views of the Colorado River and Vermilion Cliffs. The trail is considered to be moderate to strenuous, as the trail involves steep inclines, rocky terrain, and exposed sections along the canyon rim. Spencer Trail is approximately 4 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of around 1,500 feet.
Sun Valley Mine Trail
The Sun Valley Mine Trail offers hikers a glimpse into the area’s mining history while providing scenic views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is considered to be easy to moderate and is approximately 2 miles round trip.
Leave It Better Than You Found It
Remember to respect nature and follow ethical practices when engaging in outdoor activities. Always leave a place better than you found it, and practice the principles of Leave No Trace. Enjoy your time exploring the trails and discovering the area’s hidden treasures!