There are many incredible views around the world from hilltops and mountains. Whether you’re looking across valleys, mountain peaks or the sea, there is something special about that sense of grandeur and being one with the universe, with the world unfolding in front of you. Built either above gorges to connect two mountain sides or simply as scenic viewpoints, these bridges and skywalks come with an extra thrill. They are see-through, revealing the dizzying drops right beneath your feet. Would you dare to walk across one?
1. Tianmen Mountain Skywalk, China
We can’t help but start with one of the most terrifying and beautiful skywalks we’ve seen. Tianmen Mountain Skywalk is made only for the bravest of the brave. Tianmen, or ‘Heavenly Gate’ Mountain, earned its name from the giant hole in the middle of the mountain that resembles a gate to another world. Only 1.6 m wide, the glass walkway wraps around the cliffs overlooking the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, offering either breathtaking views or serious vertigo, depending on your perspective.
2. Grand Canyon Skywalk, USA
You can get one of the best views of the Grand Canyon in Arizona from the Grand Canyon Skywalk near the Colorado River. The horseshoe-shaped glass skywalk, commissioned and owned by the Hualapai Indian Tribe, has attracted numerous tourists since its opening in 2007, offering spectacular views of one of the USA’s most iconic landscapes.
3. Sapa Glass Bridge, Vietnam
One of northern Vietnam’s most popular destinations, Sapa, is home to a glass bridge with a truly fitting name – Cầu Kính Rồng Mây, meaning Dragon in Cloud Glass Bridge. The name is well-deserved. The 60 m long and 5 m wide bridge stands at an altitude of around 2,000 m above sea level. Located at the top of the Ô Quy Hồ Pass, the view it offers is absolutely stunning.
4. Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, China
When it opened in 2016, the 430 m long and 300 m high Zhangjiajie glass bridge was the tallest and longest of its kind in the world. Though no longer the record holder, the bridge in China’s Hunan Province still offers extraordinary views. And as if that were not enough, there is a bungee jumping platform in the middle for the truly adventurous.
5. Bihar glass bridge, India
Situated among five scenic hills and inspired by the glass bridge in China’s Hangzhou Province, India’s first glass skywalk is in Rajgir, in Bihar’s Nalanda district. Recently constructed, the bridge accommodates up to 40 visitors at a time and is already attracting tourists and thrill-seekers alike.
6. Dachstein Skywalk, Austria
One of the most spectacular Alpine views is offered from the Dachstein Skywalk in Austria. From here, you can admire the southern part of the Dachstein, a region recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its natural beauty and cultural significance. The circular path also leads over Austria’s longest suspension bridge, giving visitors the chance to enjoy sweeping views of the Alps.
7. Hongyagu Glass Footbridge, China
Located in the scenic Hebei Province of north-eastern China, the Hongyagu Glass Footbridge spans an impressive 488 m, making it the longest glass bridge in the world. It connects two steep cliffs and hangs 288 m above a lush valley. Four metres wide, it provides dramatic views of waterfalls and mountains and a thrilling walk for the brave.
8. Glacier skywalk, Canada
Suspended above a canyon between Banff and Jasper National Parks, the Glacier Skywalk is part of a larger Discovery Walk, complete with educational displays about the area’s geology, wildlife and history. The experience is both informative and awe-inspiring.
9. Chamonix skywalk, France
Though technically not a bridge or walkway, this unique glass installation deserves mention. “Step into the Void”, located on the upper terrace of the Aiguille du Midi, is a glass room with a transparent floor that allows visitors to feel suspended amidst the highest peaks of Western Europe. The experience – and the view – are unforgettable.
10. Skywalk Biokovo, Croatia
In southern Croatia, within the stunning Biokovo Nature Park, a recently opened attraction is drawing plenty of visitors. The Skywalk Biokovo, shaped like a horseshoe, offers sweeping views of the Adriatic Sea. It is simply mesmerising.
Whether it is the vast canyon landscapes of the American West, the cloud-kissed peaks of the Alps, or the dramatic cliffs of Asia, these glass bridges and skywalks offer a unique way to connect with nature and test your limits. They invite travellers not only to witness the world’s beauty from above but also to step out of their comfort zone. Would you take the step?
