From the lush evergreens of the Willamette Valley to the high desert of the east, Oregon’s diverse landscape is nothing short of breathtaking. But nestled in this splendor are examples of a bygone era – historic covered bridges that conjure up images of Oregon’s agrarian past. This guide offers a bit of history, beauty and local secrets as you embark on an unforgettable driving tour of Oregon’s covered bridges.
Start in Lane County – Home to the Largest Number of Covered Bridges in the West
Our tour begins in Lane County, which boasts the most covered bridges in any county west of the Mississippi. Make sure to visit the Crawfordsville Bridge, which dates back to 1932. It’s a testament to the ingenuity of early Oregon settlers, using what was available to them – in this case, Douglas Fir trees from the surrounding forest. Insider tip: visit in the fall when the trees erupt in vibrant hues of amber and crimson, reflecting off the Calapooia River below.
Keep an Eyes on the Scenic Arches of Linn County
Drive on to Linn County, where the Larwood Bridge is a beautiful example of the rare Howe truss design. Located near the confluence of Roaring River and Crabtree Creek, it’s a perfect place to enjoy a picnic from the nearby Larwood Wayside Park. Do remember that when photographing Oregon’s covered bridges, morning light is often best, particularly in the spring, when the surrounding wildflowers are in full bloom. Locals swear by the quietude of early mornings here.
Travel along Cottage Grove Covered Bridge Tour Route
Next, head south to Cottage Grove, famously known as the “Covered Bridge Capital of Oregon.” Here, you’ll find the Centennial Bridge, built from timbers of the old Meadows Bridge from 1901. Pay a visit to the nearby historic downtown area with its quaint shops. Many locals choose Allann Bros Coffee Co. for a much-needed coffee stopover. Try their Oregon Hazelnut Latte, arguably a local favorite.
Benton County – A Bridge to the Coast
As you journey west to Benton County, the charming Harris Covered Bridge is worth a stop. This bridge, located near Philomath, is just off the Oregon Route 34 and offers a beautiful view of Marys River. Be prepared with rainfall gear as coastal weather tends to change suddenly in the afternoons.
Marvel at the Charm of Oregon’s Smallest Covered Bridge in Myrtle Creek
Finally, the tour concludes in Myrtle Creek, home to Oregon’s smallest covered bridge, the Neal Lane Bridge. It’s a single-lane bridge built in 1939, perfect to end the trip on a delightful note. If your arrival coincides with the annual Myrtle Creek Summer Festival, you’re in luck. Traditionally, the festival includes live music, food carts, and, for the brave ones, a duck race down Myrtle Creek.
As this journey reflects, these covered bridges are more than mere crossings. They offer a window into Oregon’s history. Their rustic charm efficiently merges with the state’s vibrant landscapes, making them an integral part of the picturesque Oregonian backdrop.
No matter what season or which bridge you decide to visit, respect the environment, adhere to posted restrictions and be considerate of local residents. Multiple bridges are standard routes for local traffic; slow down and watch for oncoming vehicles.
So, here’s a tip from an old friend: grab your maps, snacks, camera, and a sense of adventure. Whether you’re following this guide in its entirety or just visiting a single bridge, you’re in for a breathtaking, historic journey through the heart of Oregon. Enjoy the drive, cherish the moments, and come back soon. There’s always more to explore in beautiful Oregon.