Exploring the 7 Mile Bridge: A Florida Keys Icon 🌴✨

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Dear Road Trippers,

Few landmarks in the Florida Keys are as iconic and awe-inspiring as the 7 Mile Bridge. Stretching across shimmering turquoise waters, this engineering marvel connects Marathon to the Lower Keys, offering breathtaking views, fascinating history, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.

Let’s take a journey across this legendary bridge—exploring its past, its present, and the adventures waiting along the way.

A Brief History of the 7 Mile Bridge

The story of the 7 Mile Bridge begins in the early 1900s with Henry Flagler, the visionary industrialist who dreamed of connecting the Florida mainland to Key West via the ambitious Overseas Railroad. The original Seven Mile Bridge, completed in 1912, was a masterpiece of early 20th-century engineering, earning its nickname, the "Eighth Wonder of the World."

Key Milestones in the Bridge’s History:

• 1912: The bridge opened as part of the Overseas Railroad, a rail line that revolutionized travel to the Keys and boosted Key West’s economy.

• 1935: The Labor Day Hurricane, one of the most powerful storms on record, severely damaged much of the railroad, leading to its eventual closure.

• 1938: The bridge was repurposed for vehicular traffic, becoming a vital part of the Overseas Highway (US-1).

• 1982: The modern 7 Mile Bridge was completed, running parallel to the original. This sleek new structure provided a safer and more efficient route for drivers, while the original bridge became a historic landmark.

The Old Seven Mile Bridge remains a symbol of innovation and resilience, standing as a testament to the determination of those who built it over a century ago.

Driving Across a Legend

The modern 7 Mile Bridge offers an unparalleled driving experience. Stretching 6.79 miles, it gives travelers the sensation of gliding across an endless expanse of turquoise sea, surrounded by panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico.

Highlights of the Drive:

• Scenic Stops: Start your journey in Marathon and take in the beauty of the bridge from the Sunset Grille and Raw Bar at Mile Marker 47, a favorite spot to watch the sunset.

• Fred the Tree: Midway across the bridge, you’ll spot the famous Fred the Tree, a lone mangrove that’s become a quirky symbol of resilience. Locals even decorate Fred during the holidays!

• The Perfect Sunset Drive: Time your trip to coincide with the golden hour for a magical view of the sun dipping below the horizon.

Pro Tips for Driving the Bridge:

• Drive safely and avoid stopping on the bridge unless necessary. There are scenic pull-offs at either end where you can pause for photos.

• If you’re prone to motion sickness, keep your eyes on the horizon—the water views can feel endless!

Walking the Old Seven Mile Bridge

The Old Seven Mile Bridge, restored and reopened in 2022, has become a favorite destination for walkers, runners, and cyclists. Spanning 2.2 miles from Marathon to Pigeon Key, this historic structure offers a serene way to experience the beauty of the Keys.

What to Expect on the Old Bridge:

• Spectacular Views: The elevated path offers uninterrupted views of the shimmering waters and nearby islands. Keep an eye out for marine life like dolphins, stingrays, and sea turtles.

• Pigeon Key Island: The pathway ends at Pigeon Key, a 5-acre island that once housed workers who built the Overseas Railroad.

  • Explore historic buildings, learn about the island’s role in railroad history, and enjoy picnic spots with stunning ocean views.

  • Details: Guided tours are available, and there’s even a small museum to explore. Check out Pigeon Key Foundation for more info.

7 Mile Bridge Fun Facts

1. Hollywood Star: The bridge has been featured in blockbuster films like True Lies (the bridge chase scene!), 2 Fast 2 Furious, and Mission: Impossible III.

2. Engineering Marvel: When the modern bridge was completed in 1982, it was one of the longest continuous concrete spans in the world.

3. Fred the Tree: This resilient mangrove grows in the middle of the Old Seven Mile Bridge, a quirky reminder of the beauty and unpredictability of nature.

Things to Do Around the 7 Mile Bridge

There’s more to the 7 Mile Bridge than just the drive. The surrounding area is filled with attractions worth exploring:

Crane Point Hammock (Marathon)

A 63-acre nature preserve offering walking trails, a butterfly garden, and a fascinating museum dedicated to Keys history.

• Highlights: Discover tropical flora and fauna, including Key deer and native bird species.

• Website: cranepoint.net

Sombrero Beach (Marathon)

Located just minutes from the bridge, this is one of the best beaches in the Keys.

• Highlights: White sand, calm waters, picnic areas, and volleyball courts. It’s a great spot for families and anyone looking to relax by the ocean.

Bahia Honda State Park (Lower Keys)

One of Florida’s most beautiful state parks, featuring stunning beaches and prime snorkeling opportunities.

• Highlights: Hike the old bridge trail for breathtaking views or snorkel to see vibrant marine life.

• Website: floridastateparks.org

7 Mile Bridge Run: A Bucket List Event

Each spring, the 7 Mile Bridge closes to traffic for the Annual Seven Mile Bridge Run, a 6.8-mile race across the entire span. The event attracts runners from all over the world who want to experience the thrill of running over the sea with nothing but blue skies and ocean surrounding them.

• Next Race Date: April 2025 (registration opens early, and spots fill quickly).

• Pro Tip: Even if you’re not running, it’s worth coming to cheer on participants and enjoy the lively atmosphere!

Plan Your Visit

The 7 Mile Bridge is more than just a road—it’s a destination that combines history, adventure, and jaw-dropping beauty. Whether you’re driving across, walking the Old Bridge, or exploring the surrounding area, this iconic landmark is a must-see for every Florida Keys road trip.

Have a favorite memory or photo from the Seven Mile Bridge? Reply to this email—we’d love to feature your story in a future edition!

Wishing you sunny skies and scenic drives,
Brian

Florida Keys Road Trip Team