The Rainbow Bridge
derives its name from the fact that the mist
from the nearby American & Horseshoe
Falls contributes to the creation of
rainbows in the area. The bridge spans
the Niagara River as it flows downstream
from the falls. The gorge is 950 feet
wide at this point. It is located 500
feet north of the site of a previous bridge
known as the Honeymoon Bridge because of
Niagara Falls popularity with honeymoon
couples. The Honeymoon Bridge was
destroyed by an ice jam in the river in
1938.
The Honeymoon Bridge's
replacement was firmly anchored into solid
rock in the walls of the gorge thereby
negating the possibility of it suffering the
same fate. 5,500 tons of steel were
used in the construction creating a roadway
over the river made up of two 22 feet wide
carriageways separated by a 4 foot median.
There is also a 10 foot sidewalk on the side
closest to the falls. The road deck
stands 202 feet above the river.
A toll is charged for cars and pedestrians
to use the bridge. Commercial vehicles
are encouraged to use the Queenston-Lewiston
Bridge further along the gorge.