The Nisqually Suspension Bridge at @mountrainiernps is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the national park system and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as part of the Longmire Historic District. Like other structures in the Longmire Historic District, it is an example of “NPS rustic” architecture, (Parkitecture) a design philosophy that attempts to make park buildings appear as if they belong in the natural spaces where they were built. Once the bridge was completed in 1924, it took over a year to build the Longmire Campground on the opposite bank. The original logs were pretty but precarious and the log supports were carefully updated with dimensional timber towers in 1952. This work was necessary because of heavier vehicles, increasing use, and changing bridge safety standards across the country. The majority of the bridge’s timber and hardware was sorted, saved, and reintegrated during the time. To visit this bridge, go to the Longmire Historic district ...