Maryland’s 7 Tallest Bridges That Define the State’s Landscape, History, and Transportation Network
Bridges are more than just architectural necessities—they’re iconic symbols of engineering, transportation, and connection. In Maryland, a state crisscrossed by rivers, valleys, and estuaries, bridges are vital.
Some of these structures tower over water and terrain, offering dramatic views and serving as lifelines for regional travel.
From coastal spans to mountain crossings, here are the seven highest bridges in Maryland that rise above the rest.
1. Francis Scott Key Bridge (I-695) – 185 Feet High
One of the most prominent and tragic bridges in recent Maryland history, the Francis Scott Key Bridge near Baltimore spans the Patapsco River and connects major points of the I-695 Baltimore Beltway. Standing about 185 feet above the water, it was the third-longest continuous truss bridge in the world at the time of its completion in 1977.
Unfortunately, the bridge collapsed in March 2024 after a container ship struck a support pier, leading to several fatalities and major transportation disruptions. Despite its collapse, it remains a historically significant high bridge in the state.
2. Chesapeake Bay Bridge (William Preston Lane Jr. Memorial Bridge) – 186 Feet High
Often referred to simply as the Bay Bridge, this twin-span structure crosses the Chesapeake Bay, connecting Annapolis on the western shore with Kent Island on the eastern shore. The bridge’s highest point is about 186 feet above the water, offering a breathtaking—sometimes terrifying—view for drivers.
Opened in 1952 and twinned in 1973, the Bay Bridge is a critical route for both commercial and recreational traffic. Its towering profile has made it both an engineering marvel and a source of phobia for those uneasy with heights.
3. Thomas J. Hatem Memorial Bridge – 120 Feet High
This bridge carries US Route 40 across the Susquehanna River, linking Havre de Grace in Harford County to Perryville in Cecil County. At about 120 feet above the river at its highest point, the Thomas J. Hatem Memorial Bridge is both historically and strategically important. Originally opened in 1940 and later updated, it remains one of the oldest toll bridges in continuous use in the United States.
4. Governor Harry W. Nice Memorial/Senator Thomas “Mac” Middleton Bridge – 135 Feet High
Replacing the aging Harry W. Nice Memorial Bridge in 2022, the new bridge over the Potomac River between Charles County, Maryland, and King George County, Virginia, reaches a height of approximately 135 feet. This structure accommodates four lanes of traffic and provides safer, more modern travel conditions than its predecessor.
The bridge significantly improves the flow of commuter and freight traffic between Southern Maryland and Virginia, while also enhancing safety with better shoulders and pedestrian access.
5. Thomas Johnson Bridge – 140 Feet High
Connecting Calvert and St. Mary’s counties over the Patuxent River, the Thomas Johnson Bridge soars to about 140 feet above the water. Completed in 1977, the bridge carries MD Route 4 and is a key connector between Solomons and California, Maryland.
Due to its narrow design and heavy usage, there have been calls for expanding or replacing the bridge to accommodate growing traffic and safety concerns. Despite this, it remains one of the highest—and most picturesque—crossings in Southern Maryland.
6. Woodrow Wilson Bridge – 70 Feet High
While not the tallest in the state, the Woodrow Wilson Bridge still makes the list due to its prominence and impressive design. It carries Interstate 95/495 (the Capital Beltway) across the Potomac River, linking Maryland with Virginia.
Although its elevation at around 70 feet isn’t extreme, the bridge’s wide multi-lane structure and role in major interstate traffic make it a standout in Maryland’s bridge network. Opened in its current form in 2008, it replaced a lower drawbridge that caused chronic delays.
7. Millard E. Tydings Memorial Bridge – 140 Feet High
Carrying Interstate 95 over the Susquehanna River near Havre de Grace, the Millard E. Tydings Memorial Bridge stands at about 140 feet above the river. This bridge, part of the John F. Kennedy Memorial Highway, is a vital component of the I-95 corridor, one of the busiest routes on the East Coast.
Opened in 1963, the Tydings Bridge was named in honor of U.S. Senator Millard Tydings and is a tolled crossing heading northbound. It offers expansive views of the Susquehanna River and surrounding natural landscape.
Final Thoughts
Maryland’s diverse geography, from the sprawling Chesapeake Bay to the rugged western highlands, has made bridges a cornerstone of its infrastructure. These towering structures are not just feats of engineering—they’re integral to the state’s economy, connectivity, and daily life. Whether you’re driving across the expansive Chesapeake Bay Bridge or glancing down from the high arc of the Thomas Johnson Bridge, Maryland’s highest bridges offer unforgettable experiences and essential access. As infrastructure continues to evolve, these bridges remain critical links between communities across the state.