The Geierlay in Hunsrück is more than just a bridge – it is an experience between heaven and earth. To make your trip to Germany's most beautiful suspension bridge unforgettable, we have summarized the most frequently asked questions for you here.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about the Geierlay Suspension Bridge
Arrival & Parking
We have accessible restrooms at P1.
We have two disabled parking spaces on Kastellauner Street.
Motorhomes can only be parked in designated parking areas. Please pay attention to the local signage.
Parking lot P2 is for motorhomes with the appropriate supplies.
Parking system
Arriving by bus is possible, but limited. A walking distance from the nearest stop should be planned. We recommend checking the current connection in advance.
The path to Geierlay is suitable for wheelchairs. Crossing with a wheelchair or walking aids is limited as the bridge is only 85cm wide. Please consider peak times, weekdays are better than weekends.
A parking fee applies for parking. Payment is made via our ticket machines with card and online payment. The new parking system operates through a camera license plate recognition.
For parking in P1, P2, and P3, the cost for the first 5 hours is €15.00, each additional started hour is €1.00 extra.
The rate for motorhomes including supply and disposal, electricity, water, Wi-Fi, and toilet is €20.00 for the first 12 hours, each additional started hour is €1.00 extra.
In Mörsdorf there are designated visitor parking spaces available. From there, a well-signposted hiking trail leads to the bridge.
The payment of the parking fee is made via our ticket machine with card and online payment.
- P1: Kastellauner Str. 23
- P2: Windorferstr.
- P3: Treiser Str.
The first 5 hours cost 15.00 €, each additional started hour 1.00 € extra.
The rate for motorhomes including supply and disposal, electricity, water, WLAN, and WC is 20.00 € for the first 12 hours, each additional started hour 1.00 € extra.
Parking system
Children, Families & Dogs
Yes, dogs are allowed on the Geierlay. However, please keep in mind that the situation on the suspension bridge (height, movement) can be very unusual for some dogs.
No, strollers are not allowed on the Geierlay suspension bridge. Due to the construction and limited width, bringing strollers is prohibited for safety reasons.
Tip: We recommend parents with small children to use a carrying aid (e.g. backpack or baby carrier) to safely cross the bridge.
Yes, the Geierlay suspension bridge is a great destination for families. Children are allowed to enter the bridge accompanied by adults. For safety reasons, parents should hold their children by the hand and supervise them closely throughout the entire crossing.
There is no fixed minimum age for visiting the Geierlay suspension bridge. However, what is crucial for safety is that children can walk safely or are carried by an accompanying person during the crossing. The decision is at the discretion of the parents or guardians.
Current Information
Yes, the safety of our visitors is our top priority. The Geierlay suspension bridge is regularly inspected and maintained at set intervals by specialized companies. As part of these inspections, all safety-relevant components – including the screw connections – are checked and adjusted or replaced by professionals if necessary.
If the screws were rigidly fixed, temperature and humidity fluctuations could lead to stresses or damage in the wood. The visible mobility is therefore intentional and technically necessary to ensure the longevity and safety of the bridge.
No, the bridge is safe. The entire construction of the Geierlay is precisely designed to the natural properties of the building material wood. The screws are technically planned in such a way that they allow the natural movements of the wood without compromising the stability of the bridge. Regular inspections also ensure that the bridge is always in perfect condition.
To plan your visit optimally, you can find current information on weather conditions, possible closures or events on our website, our social media channels (Facebook/Instagram) or directly on site at the tourist information. We recommend that you check the current status, especially in changeable weather, shortly before your arrival.
On the Geierlay suspension bridge, large wooden elements are used. Wood is a natural material that is constantly “working”:
- In wet conditions: The wood swells and expands.
- In dry conditions: The wood contracts.
Due to this natural movement, it may visually appear as if screws are loose. However, this is a normal process when using wood outdoors and does not affect the safety of the bridge.
Fear of heights & personal well-being
Many visitors with a slight fear of heights manage to cross the Geierlay without any problems. Our tip: Go slowly, look ahead, and take a short break on the bridge if needed. If you still feel uncomfortable, you can of course leave the bridge and turn back at any time.
Food, Drink & Stay
Yes, along the access paths to the suspension bridge and in the immediate vicinity, you will find scattered seating. These invite you to take a short break during your hike and enjoy the nature around the Geierlay.
Yes, having a picnic is allowed. We are happy when you enjoy the nature around Geierlay. However, please make sure to take your trash with you and respect nature so that the surroundings remain clean and inviting for all visitors.
Directly at the suspension bridge there is no catering. However, you will find a variety of dining options in the village of Mörsdorf as well as in the surrounding area. We recommend taking advantage of the culinary offerings in the village before or after your hike.
General
There is no admission fee. The visit to the Geierlay suspension bridge is free. A parking fee is charged for parking.
The name "Geierlay" is composed of the two words "Geier" and "Lay" (or "Lei"). The bridgehead of the Geierlay bridge on the Mörsdorf side is located on the parcel named "Geier" and forms the first part of the name. The second part represents the regional term for the slate rock that characterizes the area and is also reflected in the typical roofing of the region.
Thus, the name "Geierlay" connects the local parcel designation with the geological peculiarity of the Hunsrück and symbolically stands for the close connection of nature, history, and landscape.
- P1: Kastellauner Str. 23 – 5 hrs. 15 €
- P2: Windorferstr. 5 hrs. 15 €
- P3: Treiser Str. 5 hrs. 15 €
- P4: free (currently closed due to erosion)
Each additional started hour costs 1.00 € extra.
The rate for motorhomes including supply and disposal, electricity, water, Wi-Fi, and toilet is 20.00 € for the first 12 hours, each additional started hour 1.00 € extra.
Payment via our ticket machines with card and online payment.
The Geierlay is one of the longest suspension bridges in Germany. It connects two mountain ranges in the Hunsrück and hovers high above the Mörsdorfer Bachtal. A visit offers a special nature and adventure experience with impressive views.
The bridge is open year-round.
24/7 365 days
The Geierlay is located in Mörsdorf in the Hunsrück (Rhineland-Palatinate). The starting point for the visit is the town of Mörsdorf.
Path to the Bridge
In Mörsdorf: Public toilets are available year-round in the village (near the parking lots and at the visitor center).
At the bridge: There is an additional toilet facility directly at Geierlay, which is only open seasonally from April to October.
Accessible toilets: These are located at P1.
Note: We recommend using the sanitary facilities in the village before you head out on foot to the bridge.
The footpath from the parking lots to the bridge is approximately 1.8 to 2 kilometers, depending on the parking lot. The walking time is about 30–40 minutes one way.
The direct way: Yes, the paved access path from Mörsdorf to the bridge is accessible and can be easily used with wheelchairs or strollers.
The hiking trail (through the forest): Unfortunately, this section is not accessible. The route leads over natural forest and gravel paths, which have steep inclines and unevenness in places. We recommend sturdy footwear and good basic fitness.
Photos, Drones & Media
No, flying drones is not allowed at the Geierlay. This ban serves both the safety of visitors and the protection of nature in the region. We ask all guests to refrain from using drones to avoid disturbing wildlife and to ensure safety on the bridge.
Yes, photography is explicitly allowed on the suspension bridge. The Geierlay offers spectacular subjects for souvenir photos. However, we ask you to be considerate of other visitors and not to block the passage so that all guests can cross the bridge safely and unhindered.
Safety on the Bridge
Of course, you may stay on the Geierlay suspension bridge to enjoy the view of the Mörsdorfer Bachtal and take photos. However, we ask you to be considerate of other visitors and not to block the passage permanently, so that a smooth flow of visitor traffic on the bridge remains possible.
The maximum number of people on the Geierlay suspension bridge is predetermined for safety reasons and is strictly regulated. To ensure a safe process, we ask all visitors to please pay attention to the instructions from the staff as well as the signage on site.
Yes, the Geierlay is a state-of-the-art construction that meets all applicable safety standards and building regulations. The bridge is firmly anchored, is continuously monitored, and is designed for a high load capacity (many people at the same time). A safe experience at a great height is therefore guaranteed at all times.
The suspension bridge is generally accessible depending on the weather. However, please note that the bridge can be slippery and wobbly in strong winds, thunderstorms, ice, or storms. For your own safety, be sure to pay attention to the signs on site.
In general, it applies: Entering the bridge is at your own risk!
Waiting times & Visiting hours
To avoid waiting times and to enjoy the bridge in peace, we recommend a visit early in the morning or in the late afternoon. A trip on weekdays (outside of holidays) is also advisable to bypass the largest crowds.
Visitor numbers are particularly high at the Geierlay on weekends, holidays, and during school vacations. If you want to experience the bridge in a quieter atmosphere, we recommend visiting on weekdays or in the early morning or late evening hours.