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Sabetjohk pedestrian bridge

Ghilardi + Hellsten have laid a lightweight hiking bridge across the deepest gorge in northern Europe. The installation was almost as dramatic as the result...

Architect: Bitschnau GmbH, Dipl.-Ing. Florian Kosche AS, Ghilardi+Hellsten Arkitekter AS (design and construction)
Published 14 Mar, 2013
 
Sabetjohk pedestrian bridge.

Sabetjohk pedestrian bridge.

The main structure is made in aluminium. All junctions and joints are made to minimise weight.

The main span of Sabetjohk bridge being airlifted into place across the deepest gorge in Northern Europe.

The main span of Sabetjohk bridge just laid in place by helicopter. The bridge floor is not yet installed.

The first installation attempt was almost catastrophic, resulting in damage to the structure, which had to be repaired on site with precarious local equipment. The second attempt was successful.

The bridge completes a hiking-path network that takes visitors around the remains of an old mining site. It is both a panoramic viewing-deck and bungee-jump platform.

The bridge completes a hiking-path network that takes visitors around the remains of an old mining site. It is both a panoramic viewing-deck and bungee-jump platform.

Bungee jumping at Sabetjohk bridge.

Working drawing of the bridge structure.

Completion: 2011

Address:
Birtavarre

View it on the map

Photo:
Ghilardi+Hellsten

This lightweight aluminium bridge completes a hiking path, gives panoramic views of the deepest canyon in Northern Europe and serves as a platform for bungee jumping.

Because of the remote location, it had to be helicoptered into place, and all aspects of the design and engineering focus on reducing the weight of the main span. The “flying weight” is 3800 kgs, and tolerances at either bridgehead, as well as installation rehearsals, were critical.