Historic Covered Bridges in America
Welcome to Historic Covered Bridges in America
From the rolling hills of Pennsylvania to the river valleys of Oregon, from the winding roads of Vermont to the scenic countryside of Indiana, covered bridges have become timeless symbols of America’s rural past. Built during the 19th and early 20th centuries, these wooden spans were once a vital part of everyday travel—linking farms, towns, and communities across the country.
While Pennsylvania may boast the largest number of surviving covered bridges, every state that once relied on them has its own stories to tell. Each bridge reflects not only the skill of its builders but also the culture, resources, and needs of the communities they served. Some are simple Kingpost spans crossing small creeks, while others are grand Burr Arch or Howe trusses stretching across wide rivers.
Today, more than just transportation relics, these bridges stand as living pieces of history. They are preserved, photographed, and celebrated at local festivals, inviting us to step back in time and appreciate the ingenuity and beauty of early American craftsmanship.
On this page, we’ll explore historic covered bridges across the United States and beyond, uncovering their stories, the unique truss styles that made them possible, and the efforts communities continue to make to preserve them for future generations.
Recent Posts
Covered Bridges Through Ashtabula County, Ohio
Tucked among the scenic backroads of northeast Ohio, Ashtabula County is home to 19 beautiful covered bridges — earning it the title of the “Covered Bridge Capital of Ohio.” From the record-breaking Smolen-Gulf Covered Bridge to quiet historic crossings hidden beside rivers and farmland, this road trip adventure is filled with history, photography spots, and small-town charm. Join me as I explore some of the most iconic covered bridges in Ohio and discover why these wooden landmarks continue to capture the hearts of travelers year after year.
The Kissing Bridges of Greene County PA
There is a particular kind of quiet that descends the moment you cross the threshold of a covered bridge — the creak of aged timbers, the smell of old wood and creek water. In Greene County, Pennsylvania, that quiet is still very much alive.
Seven historic “kissing bridges” survive here, each still open to traffic, each anchored to stone abutments laid more than a century ago. Follow the self-guided driving tour and discover them all — from the oldest, the 1882 Neddie Woods Bridge, to a wartime curiosity built of wood because World War II had claimed all the steel.
The Haunted Covered Bridges of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s covered bridges aren’t just relics of the past—they’re also gateways to ghost stories and lingering legends. From the cries of an infant at Van Sant Bridge to the battlefield echoes at Sachs Bridge, these historic crossings hold more than just history in their timbers. Step inside, and you may hear whispers, footsteps, or even see shadows that refuse to fade with time.
Exploring PA Covered Bridges Starting in Washington County
Washington County is home to 23 historic covered bridges, making it one of the best places in Pennsylvania to experience these charming wooden structures up close. From quiet backroads to scenic parks, each bridge has its own story and architectural style. Join me as I begin my journey to visit every covered bridge in the state—starting right here in the heart of southwestern Pennsylvania.
Double the Charm : Only Six Bridges Remain in the USA
Double-barrel covered bridges are among the rarest architectural treasures in America. With side-by-side lanes under one roof, these historic structures combine functionality with 19th-century craftsmanship. From Indiana’s oldest surviving covered bridge at Ramp Creek to Vermont’s enduring Pulp Mill Bridge, each tells a story of engineering ingenuity and timeless charm.