The bridges feature a concrete structure faced with local stone, in an elliptical or three-centred arch configuration.

They are notable for their uniform character and for their conformance to tenets of the National Park Service rustic style.

[2] Design work for the seven newer bridges was by George D. Whittle of the San Francisco District Office of the U.S. Bureau of Public Roads for the National Park Service.

Built in 1922, it spans 50 feet (15 m) in a single arch of reinforced concrete faced with granite.

It carries the Mirror Lake Road, framing a view of Half Dome for eastbound traffic.

The Pohono Bridge (1928) spans 80 feet (24 m) over the Merced, carrying the 27-foot (8.2 m) Southside Drive and a 5-foot (1.5 m) bridle path, at a cost of $29,081.55.

The equestrian subways in the abutments were slightly enlarged in width to 8.5 feet (2.6 m) and were extended out from the surface of the wing walls for greater emphasis.

[1] The National Park Service will release a Draft Environmental Impact Statement for their Merced River Plan in October 2012.

The NPS is required to consider several alternatives before implementing a final plan to maintain a free-flowing river as described in the law.