Title: A Journey Through Time: Your Driving Tour to Oregon’s Historic Covered Bridges
Introduction
Searching for a unique Oregon experience? Craving for a road trip that combines scenic beauty, historic charm and breathtaking nature? Look no further than a driving tour of Oregon’s storied covered bridges. This journey is a trip back in time, meandering through country roads, ancient forests, and charming towns. Let’s discover together what makes these wooden wonders truly special.
Getting Ready for the Tour
Start off in the vibrant city of Portland. Ensure to have the car fully gassed up and with plenty of snacks for the journey. Local tip: Grab some marionberry pie from the famous Lauretta Jean’s bakery. It’s a beloved local delicacy that’s perfect for a road trip!
Spruce up your navigation skills and have a good map on hand. Remember, some of these bridges are tucked away in areas with spotty GPS reception. What’s an Oregon adventure without a tad of mystery?
Understanding the History
The covered bridges scattered across our lovely state are not just marvels of engineerings. They reflect Oregon’s rich past. Back in the 19th and 20th centuries, Oregon pioneers built these bridges, some of which stand strong and proud today. What an enchanting link to our past!
The Bridges to Explore
Venture first to the bucolic Linn County, fondly known as the “Covered Bridge Capital of the West.” With a collection of eight bridges, such as the picturesque Cascadia and charming Larwood, the county oozes with history at every turn.
Don’t miss visiting the Earnest Bridge. Featured in the movie “Shenandoah,” it’s a real star among covered bridges. While here, locals love to grab a lunch at the local farmer’s market held in the town’s main square every Saturday.
Journey through to the little town of Scio, a quintessential Oregonian town boasting six covered bridges of its own. Gilkey Bridge, with its traditional white washed façade and vibrant red tin roof, is simply picture-perfect.
A short drive away in Lane County, the Cottage Grove area proudly hosts the Chambers Railroad Bridge, recognized as the nation’s oldest existing covered railroad bridge. It’s a definite must-visit, wear a good pair of walking shoes though, the trail to the bridge can get a bit muddy during the fall.
Seasonal Considerations
During winter, some bridges may be closed due to weather conditions. Hence, the most ideal time for your covered bridge roadtrip is from late spring to early fall. Always check local traffic and road conditions ahead of time, especially along country roads.
What to Keep in Mind
Bear in mind, while most of these bridges are open to the public, some aren’t. So, respect private property signs. A little courtesy goes a long way!
Surprises Along the Route
Here in Oregon, getting there is half the fun. Plenty of vineyards dot the route, like Sweet Cheeks Winery Vineyard and King Estate in Lane County. Do stop for a leisurely wine tasting. Don’t forget to pick up a bottle of Oregon’s famous Pinot Noir to take home!
Conclusion
Exploring Oregon’s covered bridges is more than just a road trip. Think of it as driving through a living history book with moving chapters of scenic landscapes, blooming wildflowers, churning rivers, and friendly people. It’s the kind of experience that truly immerses you into Oregon’s heart and soul. So here’s to going off the beaten path and embracing this tour like a true local. Happy travels! Let the bridges of Oregon invite you to their wondrous world and leave you with unforgettable stories to bring back home. Just remember, once you’ve had a taste of Oregon’s charm, you’ll always be yearning for more.