The first time I came to the Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial bridge I was disppointed. I was driving across on my way to Prescott, AZ and wanted to get a couple of pictures. This was only a couple of weeks after the bridge opened and, little did I know, the guard walls are over 4 feet tall and I could not see anything. Honestly, I never even knew I drove over it until I was well into Arizona.
Fast forward about 5 1/2 year to Memorial Day 2016 and I have made it back to see the bridge up close and personal. I left early in the morning and got to the visitor parking by 7:30. I'm glad I did. It wasn't too hot yet, the crowds were down and the winds were calm. It was the most perfect time to go.
There are just two ways to get from the parking lot to the bridge. Either a winding ramp with a handful of switchbacks which are handicap accesible or a series of stair with 68 steps. Don't believe me? Count them.
Once you are on the bridge you can feel the traffic driving by in the vibrations of the deck and safety railing. It is not at all frightening to feel. Just noticeable. If you aren't too uncomfortable with heights make sure you walk close the rails to get the best views. If you feel weak in the knees when crossing, just hang out by the wall close to traffic. You'll be fine. You really should try to grab a view of the dam though. It is so worth it. And do yourself a favor, walk all the way to the end. Some people think it isn't worth going pass the half way point. But the views are different. And honestly, why not? You have made it so far already.
This bridge is a stunning feat of engineering. It is a marvel to behold. Check it out. Spend some time up there. And get some pictures of another engineering wonder, the Hoover Dam. And make sure you drive down the road a little futher to the dam so you can get some better views of the bridge structure.