There’s just something wonderful about covered bridges in Virginia. They’re synonymous with simpler times when couples would escape the public eye and meet for a brief rendezvous. These “kissing bridges” were also durable, lasting decades longer than ordinary wooden bridges. The covering protected the structure from weather and also prevented horses from spooking at the sight of water. In the early 1900s, Virginia was home to hundreds of these covered bridges. Today, only seven remain, four of which are open to the public. Thankfully, these bridges have been preserved well and can be visited and admired. These structures are an understated testament to Virginia’s history.

1. Sinking Creek Covered Bridge
Virginia Department of Transportation/Flickr
Newport, VA 24128, USA
James Walsh/flickr
Located in Giles County, Sinking Creek Covered Bridge is 70 feet long and was built in 1916. This bridge appears something like a barn with its painted paneling and tin roof. Plus, the surrounding area is absolutely breathtaking. If you have some time, take a look around and find out why Giles County is one of the best-kept secrets in Virginia.
2. Meems Bottom Bridge
Meems Bottom Covered Bridge, Wissler Rd, Mt Jackson, VA 22842, USA
Virginia Department of Transportation/flickr
This 204-foot bridge in Mount Jackson was built in 1894 and runs over the north fork of the Shenandoah River. The bridge was burned in Halloween of 1976, but restored soon after. Learn more about planning a visit to the longest covered bridge in Virginia.

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3. Jack's Bridge
Jacks Creek Covered Bridge, 1275 Jacks Creek Rd, Woolwine, VA 24185, USA
Virginia Department of Transportation/flickr
Built in 1914, Jack's Creek Covered Bridge crosses the Smith River in Woolwine and is 48 feet long. The bridge was designed by Walter Weaver, whose descendants still remain in the area and pass down tales about the romantic bridge. Jack's Bridge is also known as the Upper Covered Bridge.
4. Humpback Bridge
James/flickr
Humpback Bridge, Midland Trail, Covington, VA 24426, USA
Virginia Department of Transportation/flickr
Humpback Bridge is located on Route 600 in Allegheny County. This bridge is considered a Historic Virginia Landmark and is the oldest covered bridge in the state, dating back to 1857. The 100-foot bridge is 4 feet taller in its center which allows for the unique curved shape. Learn more about visiting the oldest covered bridge in Virginia. You can take a brief tour of Humpback Covered Bridge when you watch the brief YouTube video below:

Covered bridges in Virginia remind us of a time when life and transportation just seemed to move a little bit slower. Have you visited any of these historic bridges? What did you think? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!

Chances are, you’re going to want to snap some photos of these beautiful and historic covered bridges. Take a look at this awesome outdoor camera equipment before heading out on your adventure.

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covered bridges in Virginia

Beth C. | September 04, 2023

What is the longest bridge in Virginia?

The title of the longest bridge in Virginia belongs to the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel.

The CBBT is a whopping 16.7-mile structure that spans the Chesapeake Bay and connects Hampton Roads and the Delmarva Peninsula. It first opened in 1964 and helped eliminate the need for ferries. Learn more about what makes the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel such an incredible feat of engineering.

What are some of the most impressive landmarks in Virginia?

Virginia is filled with bucket-list-worthy attractions. Some of the most impressive and historic landmarks to check out in Virginia include:

  • Jamestown: The Beginning of a Nation
  • Yorktown Battlefield: The End of the Revolutionary War
  • Mount Vernon: The Home of George Washington
  • Appomattox Courthouse: Site of Lee's surrender and the end of the Civil War
  • Breaks Interstate Park: The Grand Canyon of the East
  • Arlington National Cemetery: A National Treasure
  • Luray Caverns: The Largest Cavern in the East
  • Shenandoah National Park: Skyline Drive
  • Bristol: The Birthplace of Country Music
  • Chincoteague and Assateague Islands: The Pony Swim

 

Don't all of the above places sound absolutely incredible? For more information, check out our full Virginia bucket list article!

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