Posted in West Virginia
March 27, 2019
This Day Trip Takes You To 9 Of West Virginia’s Covered Bridges And It’s Perfect For A Scenic Drive
The landscape throughout The Mountain State is dotted with sites of historical significance, among the most scenic are the many surviving covered bridges; many of them built by local craftsmen in the 1800s. To date, more than 15 of them have survived the test of time. Take our most beautiful day trip ever and see nine of them in less than seven hours on this road trip to remember!
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Click this Google Maps Link to guide your journey and let's get rolling!
At an impressive 101 feet long, this historic bridge was constructed in 1890 for a mere $64. After Route 33 opened, Sarvis Creek Covered Bridge was virtually abandoned by vehicular traffic so it was eventually dismantled and moved to its present site in 1924.
Located within the picturesque Cedar Lakes near Ripley, this historic bridge is sometimes called Tug Fork Bridge. Although no longer in its original location in Jackson County, it's a must-see historic marvel. It was originally built in 1887, and in 1983 it was moved three miles away and reconstructed over a pond at Cedar Lakes.
The scenic Walkersville Covered Bridge was constructed in 1903 and is a little more than 12 feet wide and 39 feet long. It crosses the West Fork River in Lewis County.
The longest covered bridge in West Virginia was built in 1852 and somehow managed to survive the Civil War. In fact, both sides of the battle used the bridge during that war. The bridge is 26 feet wide, 285.5 feet long, and has boasts two lanes of traffic. It's still open, so don't pass up the chance to drive through it in your car!
The original Simpson Creek Covered Bridge was located a half mile upstream from this location. It was built in 1881, but washed away in the great flood of 1889 and was rebuilt on this very spot.
Constructed in 1891 for $1,372, this covered bridge is 62 feet long and rests on stone abutments that were quarried from the hill next to the bridge.
At 42 feet long and 15 feet wide the (now) pedestrian-only Center Point bridge is a true testament to the construction methods of the late 1800s. It was built between 1888 and 1890 for approximately $1,000.
Built prior to the Civil War, this circa 1853 bridge was built by the same West Virginian (Lemuel Chenoweth) that constructed the Philippi Bridge. It measures 141 feet long and is now closed to vehicular traffic.
Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1981, Dents Run Covered Bridge spans 40 feet over the meanering Dents Run. It was constructed in 1889.
Love exploring The Mountain State on scenic country roads? Keep reading here to discover eight of the most scenic ever!
