All About the Austin 360 Bridge
The Austin 360 Bridge is commonly called as such because it bears a section of the Loop 360 highway that runs through Austin, Texas. The official name of the bridge, however, is the Percy V. Pennybacker Jr. Bridge. Made from Japanese steel, the “360 Bridge” has won awards which dotted over its design and innovation.
While there is not much to do on the bridge itself, pedestrians and cyclists can utilize the 6-foot pedestrian lane that runs the length of the bridge. There are plenty of opportunities to take amazing photographs Lake Austin and the Colorado River.
The Austin 360 Bridge is unique in that no part of the bridge actually touches the water – this leaves a clear thoroughfare for boaters below.
In order to get the most out of your visit to the Austin 360 Bridge, you’ll want to park your car and take a short hike to the top of a look-off that provides incredible views of the bridge and surrounding area. From the upper part of the look-off, patrons can get a 360-degree view of the area. The hike can be a bit tricky for people who may not be able to climb over large boulders, but if you are able-bodied and feel adventurous, it is worth making an effort to get to the top of the look-off. You can pack a lunch and enjoy plenty of photo opportunities.
There are also people making their way up and down the look-off so watch out for others on your travels. The best time to make the hike to the top of the look-off to see the Austin 360 Bridge is during the evening before it gets dark so you can get some photographs of the sunset. Bring a flashlight and wear some good, sturdy shoes to make the hike down as it gets dark.
When it opened to the public and traffic in 1982, the traffic was light compared to what it is now. The highway that travels along the Austin 360 Bridge is part of the biggest highway in Texas, called the Capital of Texas Highway.
The bridge is recognized amongst other picturesque bridges around the world. Surrounding by rolling hills and expansive skylines, the Austin 360 Bridge draws people from all over the world. And it does not disappoint. The bridge is just one thousand feet long and has over one hundred feet of clearance below, allowing for huge boats to pass without difficulty.
One of the things you should know about the Austin 360 Bridge is that it was the first of its kind when it was constructed in the early 1980s. The style of construction and welding had not been done before the engineer for whom the bridge is named after, introduced this method of welding to the municipality, eventually saving millions of dollars in construction methods of the past.
Pack a camera, some good walking shoes, take a water bottle and prepare to be amazed by the views and scenery surrounding the Austin 360 Bridge.