Fuchsbrunnbrücke

Deep in the woods between Zwönitz and Lößnitz, the Fuchsbrunnbrücke stands exactly where the trains left it. This riveted steel bridge carried the Zwönitz to Scheibenberg railway across the Fuchsbrunn valley from 1899 until 1947, when the line was torn up as war reparations, and it has been sitting all alone quietly rusting among the trees ever since. It stands out with its intricate steel structure soaring in the tree tops. Exploring the bridge from the forest floor lets the tall lattice legs tower over the stream and undergrowth. You can also climb up and experiment with shooting fromthe slopes on either side to contrast the weathered steel against the lush greenery, or shoot straight along the railings to use the leading lines to pull the eye across the bridge. Fog is an amazing addition to your shots here. On a misty morning the structure seems to floats out of the trees, and the soft overcast light keeps detail in the dark oxidized metal. Autumn colour lifts the whole scene changing the haunted feel to a rich contrast of steel vs nature. To reach it, follow the signposted Scheibenberger Bahn path from Zwönitz, along the old rail line that has been converted from tracks to a wide hiking trail. The bridge has been abandoned for many years and has become unsafe to cross. You'll have to shoot it from the edges of the trail or down below, unless you have a drone. (Zwönitz, Saxony, Germany)