The distinction between a bridge and arch is somewhat arbitrary.
The Natural Arch and Bridge Society identifies a bridge as a subtype of arch that is primarily water-formed.
Amidst this confusion new discoveries and potential candidates always keep popping up around the globe.
Natural arches are abundant in the deserts of Utah and Arizona in the United States.
The Arches National Park in eastern Utah contains the largest concentration of significant natural arches in the world.
The bridge is carved through the limestone karst by the Buliu River.
It is located about 40 km northwest of Fengshan in northwestern Guangxi Province, China.
Until recently, Fairy Bridge has been virtually unknown outside of China.
This was quickly confirmed by a Panoramio photo linked to Google Earth, taken by the Chinese photographer.
Estimates using Google Earth and other photos suggested that the span might be the largest in the world.
After a failed attempt, the bridge was successfully reached and measured in 2010 by a NABS team.
A paved road and a river pass under the bridge, as do some utility lines.
The actual length of the bridge is a matter of controversy due to conflicting information about the arch.
The Landscape Arch is considerably old and almost near the end of its lifecycle.
The arch could collapse at any time.
Of course, this means it could collapse tomorrow or within the next couple of centuries.
In 1991, a 73-foot slab of rock fell out from underneath the thinnest section of the span.
The rock that fell, however, was probably not structurally important to the arch.
In fact, by reducing the weight of suspended rock, the arch was probably strengthened.
Due to these events the Park Service has closed the loop trail that once led underneath the arch.
Kolob Arch, USA
Kolob Arch is located in Zion National Park, the US.
The arch measures 287 feet, just 3 feet short of the span of Landscape Arch.
Located deep in the backcountry of Zion National Park, the Kolob Arch is not easily seen.
This is not a natural bridge, but a very large alcove arch.
Morning Glory is not actually a natural bridge, but is instead a very large alcove arch.
Nevertheless, at a height of 75 feet, it is a very impressive piece of rock.
It is one of the major attractions of the Bazhou He Scenic Area, an area developed for tourism.
The arch measures 240 feet.
The Rainbow Bridge spans 275 feet and has a height of 246 feet.
