A long time ago, before automobiles were the norm and life was lived at a slower pace, the main method of transportation was a horse and buggy. But getting your horse from point A to point B often involved crossing streams, rivers, etc. Covered bridges in North Carolina connected cities and towns, and people to people. They’re beautiful examples of the past, and luckily, we have two amazingly preserved pieces of history in North Carolina you can experience for yourself.

1. Bunker Hill Covered Bridge, Claremont
Steve Fantle/Google Reviews
Built in 1895, Bunker Hill is one of the last remaining covered bridges in North Carolina and possibly the last remaining Haupt Truss wooden bridge construction in the United States. The bridge spans for 85 feet over Lyle Creek. It was built by Andy L. Ramsour and based on designs Ramsour found in a Haupt Truss book. Herman Haupt was a well-known Civil War engineer. The 'Improved Lattice Truss' timber bridge was a design patented by Haupt.
Flickr / Jimmy Emerson DVM
The last remaining example of that can be seen at Bunker Hill Covered Bridge.
4160 US-70, Claremont, NC 28610, USA
Flickr / C Hanchey
The project started in 1894 when Catawba County Commissioners requested the owners of Bunker Hill Farm build a bridge to cross Lyle Creek. The bridge was originally constructed with no roof; the roof was added in 1900 and replaced with a tin roof in 1920. Until 1985, the bridge was owned by the Bolick Family who later donated it to the Catawba County Historical Association. The bridge was added to the National Register Of Historic Places in 1970 and recognized as a Civil Engineering Landmark. The bridge was restored in 1994, and today holds much of its original beauty. You can see this unique slice of history off Connor Park Highway 70 in Claremont.

Get a closer look at the Bunker Hill Covered Bridge:

2. Pisgah Covered Bridge, Asheboro
Flickr / Jim Liestman
In 1911, for a mere $40, Pisgah Covered Bridge was built. Located in the Uwharrie National Forest, outside of Asheboro, the bridge is surrounded by beautiful greenery and is perfect for photo ops or a day trip.

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The bridge crosses over the Little River and is 54 feet in length. At the time it was built, horse and carriage was the prime mode of transportation.
Flickr / Andrew Filer
As automobile travel became more prevalent, the bridge became obsolete, yet still stood as a landmark and local tourist attraction.
Flickr / Andrew Filer
In 1998 the North Carolina Zoo, the North Carolina Department of Transportation, the Piedmont Land Conservancy, and the Landtrust for Central North Carolina collaborated to maintain and refurbish the bridge.
Flickr / Donald Lee Pardue
Yet the Pisgah Bridge was almost destroyed when a flood washed it away in 2003. Luckily, 90% of the original wood and pieces were able to be salvaged. Today, the Pisgah Covered Bridge holds all of its original charm and beauty.
6925 Pisgah Covered Bridge Rd, Asheboro, NC 27205, USA
Flickr / Donald Lee Pardue
Today, the bridge is designated as a local and federal historic landmark. There's a gate to get to the bridge and you can access this wonder from dawn to dusk. Bonus: The surrounding nature is gorgeous, with a serene stream, foot trail, and quarter-mile trail through the woods. A unique yet adventurous experience!

Get a closer look at the Pisgah Covered Bridge:

Wow, what beautiful gems we are lucky to have! I want to go visit both and take pictures. Have you visited these covered bridges in North Carolina for yourself? Let us know in the comments. They may be worthy of a little road trip. Speaking of which, these day trips in North Carolina make for some fun adventures.

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More to Explore

Things To See And Do In North Carolina

William Suphan | August 31, 2023

What are the most relaxing natural areas in North Carolina? 

The most relaxing natural areas in North Carolina include:

  • SOCO Falls. This is an idyllic and quiet area with tiny waterfalls and streams just off of Highway 19.
  • Craggy Pinnacle Overlook. Take a short hike near the Blue Ridge Parkway to a stunning view of Craggy Gardens.
  • Camp Alice Trail. This Trail leads you to gorgeous open fields with amazing views of Mt. Mitchell and there's hardly anyone here.
  • Hawksbill Mountain. Take a day hike up this mountain to get breathtaking views of Linville Gorge.

Find out more about the most relaxing natural areas in North Carolina. 

 

What are the best farmer’s markets in North Carolina?

The best farmer’s markets in North Carolina include:

  • Charlotte Regional Farmer’s Market. This is one of the biggest farmer’s markets in the state and has fresh local produce, meat, and dairy.
  • NoDa Farmer’s Market. This community market has flowers, fresh fruits and vegetables, and various local artisan goods.
  • Cotswold Farmer’s Market. This is not just a market but a local hangout where residents gather to shop, mingle, and enjoy live music. 
  • King’s Drive Farmer’s Market. This is a smaller market, but the fresh produce is some of the best you’ll find in the state.

Learn more about the best farmer’s markets in North Carolina. 

What are some hidden gem destinations in North Carolina?

Hidden gem destinations in North Carolina include:

  • Mile High Swinging Bridge. Located at Grandfather Mountain, this is a thrilling challenge in the midst of gorgeous natural beauty.
  • Carova Beach. You need a 4X4 vehicle to get to this beach, but once you do, you’ll be rewarded with the sight of wild horses.
  • Castle Monte Rouge. This odd castle near Durham has intriguing spires and sits all alone deep in the forest.
  • Church of the Frescoes. This tiny church in a tiny town has authentic Italian frescoes within that will amaze you.

Discover more about hidden gem destinations in North Carolina. 

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