Geierlay Suspension Bridge

The Geierlay suspension bridge near Mörsdorf in the Hunsrück hills of Rhineland-Palatinate is one of the longest rope suspension bridges in Germany and one of the region's most popular outdoor attractions. Stretching 360 meters (about 1,180 feet) and hanging up to 100 meters (330 feet) above a forested valley, it sways noticeably underfoot. Crossing it is free, open around the clock, and an unforgettable thrill if you have a head for heights.

A village idea turned landmark

Locals first floated the idea in 2006 during a village renewal workshop. Construction began on May 26, 2015, and took less than six months; the first visitors arrived in October 2015. Swiss engineer Hans Pfaffen designed it after the model of Nepalese rope bridges, with no stiffening – which is why it moves. The Douglas fir walkway is only about 85 centimeters (under 3 feet) wide. According to the operator's statistics, more than 3.2 million people have crossed since it opened.

Opening hours, tickets and parking

As of October 2026, the bridge is open 24/7, year-round, and there is no admission fee. You cross at your own risk; in storms, thunder or ice the deck can be slippery and unstable, so follow the on-site signs.

The only cost is parking in Mörsdorf: €15 for the first five hours at lots P1 (by the visitor center, Kastellauner Straße 23), P2 and P3, then €1 per extra hour, paid by card, app or online via license plate recognition.

Getting there

The Geierlay sits between the Moselle and Rhine valleys. By car, take the A61 autobahn to the Pfalzfeld exit and follow the B327 toward Kastellaun, or leave the A48 at Kaifenheim and drive via Treis-Karden. It works well as a day trip from Koblenz, Cochem or the Moselle valley, and a longer one from Frankfurt or Cologne. Public transportation is limited – a few bus lines serve Mörsdorf from Kastellaun – so a car is by far the easiest option.

From the parking lots it is a 1.8 to 2 km (about 1.2 mile) walk to the bridge, roughly 30 to 40 minutes each way. Plan two to three hours in total.

Tips for your visit

• Strollers are not allowed on the bridge; bring a baby carrier instead.
• Dogs are welcome on a leash, though many find the height and movement stressful.
• The paved path from Mörsdorf is wheelchair-friendly, but crossing is limited by the narrow deck.
• Come early or on a weekday – on summer weekends the number of people on the bridge is regulated and lines can form.
• Restrooms are at the visitor center, plus seasonal facilities at the bridge from April to October.

Is it worth visiting?

If you enjoy hiking or a bit of adrenaline, absolutely. Autumn, when the valley turns gold and red, is especially photogenic. Hikers can extend the visit on the 6.6 km Traumschleife Geierlay loop trail, which starts at the visitor center.

Nearby

• Burg Eltz: the fairy-tale castle in the Elz valley pairs perfectly with the bridge on a day trip.
• Moselle valley around Treis-Karden: wine villages and castles.
• Kastellaun: a small Hunsrück town with a castle ruin.