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Chain of Rocks Bridge

Imagine a giant snake bending in the middle of a river! That's the Chain of Rocks Bridge!

Images

Old Chain of Rocks Bridge

Old Chain of Rocks Bridge

openverse
Old Chain of Rocks Bridge
Chain of Rocks Bridge Missouri 66 Sign
Chain of Rocks Bridge - Illinois / Missouri
Chain of Rocks bridge bike path
Chain of Rocks Bridge - Illinois / Missouri
Chain of Rocks Bridge - Illinois / Missouri
Chain of Rocks Bridge Illinois Side 1
Mississippi from the Chain of Rocks Bridge 2
Old Chain of Rocks Bridge (4)
Old Chain of Rocks Bridge (2)
Chain of Rocks Bridge - Illinois / Missouri

Key Facts

Location
Mississippi River, near St. Louis, Missouri and Illinois.
Year Built
Opened in 1929.
Famous Fact
It has a 22-degree bend in the middle, making it look like a giant curve.
Current Use
Carries walking and biking trails.

Meet the Wobbly River Crossing!

The Chain of Rocks Bridge is a super long bridge that goes over the mighty Mississippi River. It's not just any bridge; it has a funny bend in the middle, like a giant elbow! This bend makes it look like it's doing a dance. It connects Illinois to Missouri, letting people and bikes travel across the water.

Why the Big Bend?

When builders were making this bridge, they found out the riverbed rocks weren't strong enough to hold up a straight bridge. Also, there was a big water pipe in the way! So, they had to make the bridge curve. It's like building a LEGO tower and having to go around a toy car that's in the way!

A Famous Road Once Traveled Here!

Guess what? For a long time, this bridge was part of a very famous road called U.S. Route 66. Lots of people drove their cars over it! Now, cars use a different bridge nearby, but this old bridge is special for walkers and bikers. It's like a historic playground over the water!

A Bridge for Fun Today!

Even though cars don't drive on it anymore, the Chain of Rocks Bridge is still super important. People love to walk, run, and bike across it. You can see the river flowing below and feel the breeze. It's a great place to explore and enjoy the outdoors, and it's been around for a very long time!

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