Title: Exploring the Historic Covered Bridges of Oregon: A Local’s Guide to the Ultimate Driving Tour
Intro:
Oregon, the land of enchanting waterfalls, vast forests, serene lakes, and of course, picturesque covered bridges! These charming structures scattered throughout the state provide a fascinating glimpse into Oregon’s architectural heritage and the rich tapestry of its past. Whether you’re a history buff or just a curious tourist, this one-of-a-kind driving tour of Oregon’s historic covered bridges is sure to become a cherished memory.
Bridges and Their Locations
While you might be tempted to head straight to the coast, remember that the heart of Oregon’s covered bridge country lies mainly inland. The Willamette Valley is rich with these wooden wonders, so start in Linn County, near Scio, Oregon’s ‘Covered Bridge Capital of the West’. The Shimanek Bridge’s distinctive red paint is a sight to behold and while the Hannah Bridge may not be flashy, it’s steeped in history and charm.
Next, wind your way to Lane County, where you’ll discover the Earnest Covered Bridge, a local favorite for picnics and photos. Around this area, you’ll also find the Lowell Covered Bridge and Interpretive Center, a must-visit for anyone interested in Oregon’s history. Don’t forget to check out the beautiful Deadwood Creek Bridge in rural Lane County. It’s a trek, but one well worth it, trust us!
Tips for the Trip
Avoid peak tourist season, especially during the fall when leaf peepers visit. Locals know that in spring, nature puts on a spectacular color display too as wildflowers bloom, and the covered bridges look just as beautiful.
Remember, in Oregon, as the day progresses, weather conditions can change rapidly. It’s always a good idea to embark on your driving tour early in the day. This way, you’ll capture the bridges in brilliant morning light, and avoid any last-minute dashes to outpace the evening drizzle.
Also, locals would caution against relying solely on GPS in rural Oregon. The hospitality of the locals is well-known, so don’t be shy about asking for directions. People here are always happy to help.
Destination: The Southern Bridges
Next, head down to Douglas County, where you’ll find something a bit extraordinary – the Neal Lane Bridge. You might recognize it from the Hollywood movie ‘Stand By Me’. Continue down the Rogue River, and you’ll see the rustic charm of the Wimer Covered bridge, an excellent spot for photos.
While the coastal regions of Oregon do not have that many covered bridges, make sure to detour to the Sandy Creek Covered Bridge in Remote. It might be out of the way, but with its stunning views, it’s definitely worth the trip!
Remember to Respect
Follow the rules and respect the bridges. Many are still in use today, serving as vital links for communities. Moreover, these are historic landmarks, witnesses to Oregon’s bygone days, so treat them with the care they deserve. Locals will tell you always to mind your speed when crossing, which is usually limited to a slow and steady 15 miles per hour.
Conclusion:
There’s no better way to understand the Oregonian way of life than by embracing its history, and these covered bridges serve as beautiful reminders of the state’s rich past. Remember, Oregon loves its visitors, and true locals treat those bridges like family, welcoming visitors with open arms. So roll down the windows, breathe in the fresh woodland air, and embark on a journey back in time through Oregon’s historic covered bridges. Enjoy the drive, embrace the history, and fall in love with Oregon, just like we have.