Who doesn’t know about the state’s most famous span?
It’s an engineering marvel that’s also beloved for its beauty and grace, as well as strength.
Hard to believe, but the New River Gorge Bridge is now 40 years old.
So many folks have documented its beauty over the decades, and it is easy to see why.
Season by season, photos tell this story.
And help us all remember how much this bridge means to West Virginia.
Want to celebrate? Join thousands of others Saturday for the 2017 Bridge Day.
Photo courtesy Vintage West Virginia and Wendell Pugh
Making progress on construction, circa 1975.
Photo courtesy Vintage West Virginia and Roger Mackey
Building the bridge continued to be an amazing engineering feat.
Photo courtesy Jason Lemley Photography
In the end, a beautiful new piece of infrastructure clings to the mountainous terrain.
Photo courtesy Vintage West Virginia
Everyone wants to be part of the fun in those early days after construction is finished in 1977.
Photo courtesy Linda Turman Photography
But in the end it comes together beautifully, from any angle.
Photo courtesy of Tim Naylor
Bridge Day is a popular annual event that attracts hundreds of BASE jumpers who leap from the bridge, as well as thousands of spectators eager to watch.
Photo courtesy Randall Sanger Photography
Spring is beautiful under the bridge.
Photo courtesy Thomas Dean Photography
There’s no place else to be in summer.
Photo courtesy MP Photography
Fall never disappoints.
Photo courtesy Paula Horton
Snow brings a special charm.
Photo courtesy Chad Forman Photography
A double rainbow over the bridge means extra good luck for all who see it.
Photo courtesy Chad Forman Photography
Nearly sunset after a storm rolled through the gorge.
Photo courtesy Thomas R. Fletcher
