Indiana is one of those Midwestern states that people literally come to visit simply to explore the photogenic covered bridges that are scattered all over. Parke County, in particular, is a well-known and much-loved destination for bridge enthusiasts and photographers thanks to its title of being the “covered bridge capital” of the Hoosier State. In fact, it’s the perfect place for a quiet, low-key day trip – come see some of the most beautiful historic covered bridges in Indiana on this short and sweet adventure.
To drive from start to finish is just half an hour, so we definitely recommend taking your time and getting to know each one.
Parke County, Indiana, is a remarkably scenic place with so much to do and see; but today, we're going to wander to five different covered bridges in this gorgeous region.
The closest town to the first bridge we'll check out is Rockville; it's got plenty of great local eateries, shops, and things to do in the event that you finish bridge-hopping and want more. The official map and route for this trip can be found on Google Maps.
Our first stop is Crooks Bridge.
Its history is a little hazy, but from what we were able to learn, this bridge was built anywhere from 1856 to 1860. It was moved and subsequently rebuilt in 1862-1867. Like many of the bridges on this list, it spans over Little Raccoon Creek. It's 132 feet long. Crooks Bridge is the oldest on this list. It is a drive-through bridge.
Next up we'll head south to McAllister's Bridge, which was built in 1915.
Also over Little Racoon Creek, McAllister's Bridge is 126 feet long and, like Crooks Bridge, you can drive through it. Careful of traffic if you choose to go on foot.
Southwest of McAllister's Bridge is Neet Bridge.
Neet Bridge was built in 1904, also over Little Racoon Creek, and spans 126 feet in length. It's important to note that this one is a walk-through bridge only. Foot traffic is the only acceptable traffic here, so get out of the car, stretch your legs, and enjoy!
From Neet we'll head down to the Roseville Bridge, which is the longest driving portion of this trip (and even then, it's not very long).
Roseville Bridge was built in 1910 over Big Raccoon Creek (see, we're changing it up on ya). At 263 feet in length, this one is the longest you'll encounter on this adventure. Every bridge on this list is pretty photogenic, if you ask us, but this one goes above and beyond to look stunningly gorgeous year-round.
Finally, we'll take a brief jaunt to Harry Evans Bridge.
Last but not least, this bridge was built in 1908 over Rock Run Creek. It's the shortest bridge on this journey, at just 65 feet long.
Watch this YouTube video by lifererouted to discover more about these Indiana covered bridges.
https://youtu.be/oc2WMq-TV0w?si=Cx2PLt3_TqDuQg_p&t=112
Of course, you can take this trip in any way you like, but if you do it as described here, you ought to end up near the town of Rosedale. Make sure to check out local shops and eateries while you're there! And if you wanna spend the night in the town, here are a few hotels near Rosedale that we recommend.
Which covered bridges in Indiana are your favorites? Tell us by filling out this OIYS nomination form; we would love to hear your ideas. Do you plan to try this day trip in Indiana? Go for it and tell us how it goes.
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