This 430-Foot Idaho Bridge Was Built in 1921 and Locals Closed Down Their Businesses Just To Celebrate It

When many people think of Idaho, they think of potatoes and the state’s farmland. However, I think of our state’s remarkable beauty, countless outdoor activities, and history. In fact, just south of Hagerman, along Highway 30, is one destination that only locals seem to know exists, but it combines all of my favorite things about Idaho—it is Owsley Bridge.

Highway 30, also known as Thousand Springs Scenic Byway, is a drive every Idahoan should take at least once. This beautiful route is the perfect day trip and takes you to small towns, state parks, hot springs, and geological wonders. Just off this scenic byway and north of Thousand Springs State Park - Ritter Island is one historic bridge that tends to surprise visitors, but is worth a stop.

Owsley Bridge, built in 1921, is considered a true marvel. It is a continuous cantilevered through-truss bridge and the only one built on the state highway system. The impressive 430-foot-long bridge was officially placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1998.

When completed in the 1920s, the bridge greatly improved transportation in the area, and locals could hardly contain their excitement about its opening. In fact, in 1921, businesses throughout the small towns of Hagerman and Buhl closed for the day so everyone could participate in community celebrations.

Today, as you travel near Highway 30, you cannot drive across the Owsley Bridge. However, you can walk across this historic structure and enjoy the river views. I also recommend you spend some time at Owsley Waterfront Park, where you can have a picnic with the bridge in sight.

And after you have spent time at this historic bridge, visit Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, which is only a few miles away. Here, you can also take a step back in time—far, far back in time—three million to 4 million years ago.

During your visit, I recommend you start at the Thousand Springs Visitor Center, located just north of the town of Hagerman and approximately 10 miles from the Owsley Bridge. This visitor center is the only place where you can actually see the fossils, as the dig sites within the national monument are not accessible to the public. After spending time at the visitor center, you can have a picnic or even go on a hike.

Owsley Bridge may be a surprise for visitors along Thousand Springs Scenic Byway in Idaho. It’s a little piece of history that many people don’t know about—yet its completion was a big event for residents in some of Idaho’s small towns. Take a scenic drive, enjoy the beauty, and step into history. Your adventure is calling.