Ed Hendler Bridge Cable Bridge
An iconic cable-stayed bridge spanning the Columbia River, renowned for its stunning nighttime illumination and scenic riverfront trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Pleasant for walks & runs
Ed Hendler Bridge Cable Bridge
Best Time
Pleasant for walks & runs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic cable-stayed bridge spanning the Columbia River, renowned for its stunning nighttime illumination and scenic riverfront trails.
"Stunning bridge in the night with it's beautiful lighting. A landmark of the Tri-cities area."
🌅 Sunset & Night Views
The bridge is stunning when lit up at night. Catch sunset from Clover Island Inn for a magical view.
🚶♀️ Walking the Bridge
Be mindful of traffic and the gaps in the sidewalk when walking across. Enjoy the views from below too!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Illuminated Nighttime Spectacle
Across the Columbia River
Witness the bridge come alive at night with its beautiful, captivating lighting. A true landmark.
Scenic Riverfront Trails
Surrounding the bridge
Explore the trails along the Columbia River for picturesque walks and runs with great bridge views.
Clover Island Inn Viewpoint
Clover Island Inn
Enjoy excellent perspectives of the bridge, especially at sunset and night, from the inn's pool deck or boat dock.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Experiencing the Bridge Safely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset & Night Views
The bridge is stunning when lit up at night. Catch sunset from Clover Island Inn for a magical view. +1
🚶♀️ Walking the Bridge
Be mindful of traffic and the gaps in the sidewalk when walking across. Enjoy the views from below too!
☀️ Summer Morning Strolls
Ideal for runs or walks along the river trails, offering cooler temperatures and great bridge vistas.
🏊♂️ Open Water Swimming
While possible, be aware of water vegetation and currents, especially in warmer months. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset & Night Views
The bridge is stunning when lit up at night. Catch sunset from Clover Island Inn for a magical view. +1
🚶♀️ Walking the Bridge
Be mindful of traffic and the gaps in the sidewalk when walking across. Enjoy the views from below too!
☀️ Summer Morning Strolls
Ideal for runs or walks along the river trails, offering cooler temperatures and great bridge vistas.
🏊♂️ Open Water Swimming
While possible, be aware of water vegetation and currents, especially in warmer months. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Ed Hendler Bridge as a beautiful and iconic landmark, especially when illuminated at night. Many enjoy the surrounding riverfront trails for walks and runs. Some find walking across the bridge a bit unnerving due to traffic and sidewalk visibility.
"To cross this bridge has been a long standing desire of mine. We had the time on our last trip so my wife and I took the time to find it and cross it. It’s a beautiful piece of construction!"
Patch Blakey
"Stunning bridge in the night with it's beautiful lighting. In the day it is filled with traffic and walking across is quite terrifying as you can see the water Beneath your feet in the cracks in the sidewalk. Enjoy it's beauty from below!"
M
"A landmark of the Tri-cities area, the bridge looks even better at night when it is lit up. When visiting, I've loved using the trails around this bridge and the river. First thing in the morning (during the summer) is the best time to run/walk."
Eric Haffner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ed Hendler Bridge, also known as the Cable Bridge, is a prominent landmark in Kennewick, Washington. It spans the Columbia River, connecting Kennewick and Pasco. You can access it via local roads. Many visitors find it easily accessible by car, with parking available near the riverfront trails.
Information on direct public transportation routes to the immediate vicinity of the bridge can be limited. It's best to check local transit schedules for Kennewick or Pasco. Driving or ride-sharing services are often the most convenient options.
Parking is available in areas near the riverfront trails on both the Kennewick and Pasco sides. These lots provide access to walking paths that lead to the bridge.
Yes, you can walk and bike across the Ed Hendler Bridge. There are sidewalks available, but be aware of vehicle traffic.
Great views can be found from the riverfront trails, Clover Island Inn (pool deck and boat dock), and from the water itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit or walk across the Ed Hendler Bridge. It is a public bridge and its surrounding areas are accessible for free.
Visiting the bridge itself is free. However, if you choose to dine or stay at accommodations like the Clover Island Inn, standard charges will apply.
The Ed Hendler Bridge is a public thoroughfare and is open 24/7. The surrounding riverfront trails may have specific hours, typically from dawn to dusk.
The riverfront trails are generally free to access and use, allowing for enjoyable walks and exploration around the bridge.
Yes, the bridge is accessible at all times as it is a public road. However, for the best experience, consider visiting during daylight or when it's illuminated at night.
📸 📸 Photography
The bridge is particularly photogenic at sunset and after dark when its lights are on. Summer mornings also offer good light for capturing the bridge and river.
Consider the riverfront trails for unique angles, Clover Island Inn for elevated views, and from the water if you have access to a boat.
Drone usage is subject to FAA regulations and local ordinances. Always check for any restrictions before flying a drone in the area.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, be respectful of private property if you are on or near it, and be mindful of traffic if you are on the bridge itself.
Popular shots include the bridge illuminated at night, panoramic views from the riverbanks, and close-ups of its unique cable-stayed structure.
🎫 🏊♂️ Water Activities
Swimming near the bridge is possible, but caution is advised due to currents and potential underwater vegetation, especially in warmer months. +1
The Columbia River can have strong currents. It's recommended to check local conditions and be an experienced swimmer or boater before venturing out. +1
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities on the Columbia River. Be aware of boat traffic and river currents when planning your trip.
Information on specific boat tours that pass under the bridge can vary. It's advisable to check with local tour operators in the Tri-Cities area for current offerings.
Water temperatures in the Columbia River can be quite cold, especially outside of peak summer. Be prepared for chilly conditions if you plan to swim or engage in water sports.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day for a more relaxed experience. While walking across the bridge itself might be exciting, ensure children are supervised closely due to traffic and sidewalk gaps. The surrounding parks often have playgrounds, making it a well-rounded family outing.
🚶♀️ Walkers & Runners
For those who enjoy a challenge, walking or cycling across the bridge itself provides a unique perspective, though be mindful of vehicle traffic. The elevation gain across the bridge offers a slight workout and rewarding views from its apex.
📸 Photographers
Key locations for photography include the riverfront trails, which provide ground-level and elevated perspectives. Clover Island Inn offers a fantastic vantage point, especially for capturing the bridge against the sunset or city lights. Experiment with different focal lengths to capture both the grand scale and intricate details of this architectural marvel.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: Ed Hendler Bridge
Visitors often marvel at its scale and the intricate network of cables that support the roadway. The bridge's aesthetic appeal is further enhanced by its illumination at night, transforming it into a beacon of light across the water. This visual spectacle is a major draw for photographers and evening strollers alike.
Beyond its functional purpose, the bridge has become a symbol of the Tri-Cities, representing progress and connectivity. Its presence has also spurred development in the surrounding areas, with parks and trails designed to complement its grandeur and offer recreational opportunities for the community.
Exploring the Riverfront Trails
As you traverse the trails, you'll encounter various vantage points offering different perspectives of the Cable Bridge. Some sections provide close-up views of the bridge's piers and cables, while others offer wider panoramas of the river and the surrounding landscape. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, as the riverbanks are often frequented by birds and other creatures.
These trails are well-maintained and connect to other local parks and amenities, making it easy to create a longer outing. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating run, the riverfront trails provide a refreshing way to enjoy the outdoors and the iconic Ed Hendler Bridge.
Nighttime Wonders and Photo Opportunities
For the best photographic opportunities, aim for the 'golden hour' just before sunset or the 'blue hour' shortly after. The bridge's lights are typically on throughout the night, offering a consistent backdrop for stunning night photography. Consider using a tripod to capture long-exposure shots that emphasize the light trails of passing vehicles and the bridge's illuminated structure.
Popular spots for night photography include the riverfront trails and viewpoints from Clover Island. The contrast between the dark sky and the vibrant lights of the bridge creates dramatic and captivating images.
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