Walking on Air - March 28, 2007

Acrophobics, beware! March 28 is your worst nightmare come true, for today marks the opening of the Grand Canyon Skywalk, the highest man-made structure ever built.  The Skywalk sits higher than the Taipei 101 building; higher off the ground than three Empire State Buildings or four Eiffel Towers. So high that one has to wonder if even Superman could leap it in a single bound.  And the worst part? The only thing separating those who dare to venture out on the catwalk suspended nearly a mile above the Canyon floor is a thin sheet of clear Plexiglass. Oh, sure, they say it'll hold the equivalent of 71 747s, but who wants to take the chance? The idea of watching helicopters fly under our feet gives us the willies. While it may seem tempting, unless we suddenly develop an uncanny ability to float in midair, we'll stick to terra firma. Suggested Sites... Grand Canyon Skywalk - official site of the scariest structure in the world. Hualapai Tribe - the people who brought you the death-defying attraction. American Southwest: Hualapai Reservation - tourism information for those who dare to walk the Skywalk. Wikipedia: Tallest Structures in the World - from Blanchard, North Dakota to Stonehenge, England and all points in between. Phobia List - "tell us your phobias and we will tell you what you're afraid of." The Long History of the Parachute - just in case.