Title: Discover the Historic Covered Bridges of Oregon: An Insider’s Driving Tour
Introduction
There’s no better way to truly experience the hidden charm of Oregon than by taking a leisurely drive through its countryside and exploring the iconic covered bridges spread throughout the state. These quaint structures, that seem to be straight out of a fairytale, hold a genuinely special place in the heart of Oregon. They serve as vivid reminders of the craftsmanship and the engineering prowess of the Oregonians of yore, and make any road trip across Oregon’s vast landscape feel truly magical.
Wind Your Way Through Lane County
Arguably, the heart of Oregon’s covered bridge country lies in serene Lane County which houses the most extensive collection of such bridges in the west. Among them, Goodpasture Covered Bridge in Vida stands out as a must-see. Built in 1938 over the magnificent McKenzie River, it’s Oregon’s second longest covered bridge. Time it right in the fall, and you’ll witness an extraordinary sight as the surrounding forest goes ablaze with brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Just remember, the bridge is more than an Instagram backdrop; it’s part of the local community’s heritage.
Another notable bridge in Lane County is the Office Bridge in Westfir, which happens to be the longest in Oregon. Connected to the Westfir Lodge, the bridge forms part of an idyllic setting that locals love to talk about. Perhaps follow it with a delicious lunch at Casey’s Riverside RV Park, a lovely little eatery by the river that serves local favorites.
Embrace Southern Oregon’s Marvels
Moving further south, the quaint little town of Myrtle Creek shelters the Neal Lane Bridge. Reputedly the smallest covered bridge in Oregon, locals will tell you stories of how this charming structure was used as a private driveway for years. It’s shielded from the main roads, so remember to look for the signs painted by local artists or else you might miss it.
Sacred Native American Lands in Central Oregon
In Central Oregon, Warm Springs and Wasco County, located in the traditional territory of the Warm Springs, Wasco, and Paiute Native American tribes, are steeped with cultural significance. Here, you’ll find the Wapanitia Covered Bridge, a charming tribute to 20th-century Oregon and a nod to the region’s rich Native American influence. Remember, these are sacred tribal lands- a level of sensitivity is a must.
Coastal Charms of Oregon
Take a detour in the scenic north coastal region, and you’ll find the Drift Creek Bridge in Lincoln County which is a real head-turner. Nestled amid lush greenery, it offers an out-of-the-world experience in the late spring when the Rhododendrons bloom in the backdrop. Watch out for sudden weather changes common on the coast and always carry a rain jacket.
Insider Wisdom for Happy Trails
1. Visit during the warmer months for the best outdoor experience, but note that summer weekends can get a lick crowded.
2. Keep the afternoons free and adapt to Oregon’s leisurely pace. The best experiences come from unwinding at local eateries and soaking in the unique blend of tranquility and history.
3. Keep in mind that many of these bridges are part of the daily commute for locals.
4. Always drive slow and yield to oncoming traffic on these single-lane bridges.
5. FREC Pioneer Park in Eugene is a great starting point, as it’s home to Oregon’s oldest bridge, the Currin Covered Bridge.
Ending Notes
As you drive along Oregon’s picturesque backroads, discovering these charming covered bridges and basking in the serenity they evoke, it’ll feel like a shared secret between you and the Beaver state. And nothing brings more happiness to an Oregonian than seeing visitors fall in love with their beloved land. So buckle up, take the road less traveled, and let each bridge you cross reveal another fascinating chapter in Oregon’s rich history. After all, taking it slow and soaking in the beauty one bridge at a time, that’s the Oregon way!