There are lots of historic places you can explore in the Badger State, but one of the most charming is definitely the Cedarburg Bridge, the oldest covered bridge in Wisconsin. Dubbed a historic treasure, the bridge dates back to 1876! And since it’s part of a park, it makes the perfect day trip destination. Take a look; who knew the bridges of Madison County were so breathtaking?

The Cedarburg Bridge, which was originally known as Red Bridge, is the oldest covered bridge in Wisconsin.
James Jordan/Flickr
It’s also one of the few remaining covered bridges in Wisconsin – at one time, the state had more than 40!
Kevin M/TripAdvisor
The charming piece of historic architecture can be found in Covered Bridge Park, which is about 20 miles north of Milwaukee.
Kevin M/TripAdvisor
The bridge was built in 1876, using pine logs from Baraboo. Utilizing a lattice truss construction, it was built without nails or bolts. Instead, its wood planks were secured using hardwood pins.
beav2219/TripAdvisor
In the 1960s, after nearly 100 years of continuous use, the bridge began to show signs of disrepair.
Kathy M/TripAdvisor

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So, as a way to preserve the bridge, it was moved about 50 feet from its original location and closed to vehicle traffic.
Kevin M/TripAdvisor
The fact that the bridge has been closed to vehicles for decades hasn’t stopped people from visiting, though. Today, it’s a popular spot for bikers, hikers, joggers, and photographers.
Jim Bauer/Flickr
In 1965, the bridge was dubbed a historic treasure by the Ozaukee County Historical Society. And in 1973, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Elvis Kennedy/Flickr
A historical marker now sits near the bridge, highlighting its past and significance.
Diane B/TripAdvisor
After checking out Cedarburg Bridge, the oldest covered bridge in Wisconsin, spend some time exploring Covered Bridge Park, which is a popular spot for grilling, picnicking, canoeing, and fishing.
Art M/Google

For more information, call (262) 377-4509. You can also visit the Covered Bridge Park website.

Have you ever visited the oldest covered bridge in Wisconsin? If so, what did you think? Know of another charmingly historic bridge? Tell us in the comments section – we would love to hear from you!

This isn’t the state’s only covered bridge. Read about our other beloved bridges of Madison County, too!

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oldest covered bridge in Wisconsin

Beth C. | November 03, 2021

What are some other covered bridges in Wisconsin?

Isn't there something positively magical about covered bridges? Equal parts historic, charming, and picturesque, these impressive structures take us back to a simpler time. Fortunately, there are quite a few covered bridges remaining in Wisconsin today. In addition to the Cedarburg Bridge, you'll also want to make a point of seeing the bridge at Amnicon Falls State Park, Smith Rapids Covered Bridge, Brodhead, and Cassville. How many of these stunning covered bridges in Wisconsin have you seen?

Are there any haunted bridges in Wisconsin?

If you find bridges to be appealing, you're in good company. Here at OnlyInYourState, we are constantly impressed by the history, lure, and appeal of bridges. Wisconsin has its fair share of significant bridges, some of which are even rumored to be haunted. One of the most notoriously haunted bridges is known as Bloody Bride Bridge. Located in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, this bridge was the sight of a dreadful car accident that killed a young bride. As legend has it, the couple still haunts the bridge to this day. If you cross over the bridge at night, you may just encounter something otherworldly.

Does Wisconsin have any hidden gems?

You bet! There's a treasure trove of hidden gems to be discovered in the Badger State. Some of our top recommendations include the small town of Princeton, Delavan Lake, Candlewood Cabins, Brunet Island, Cranberry Castle, Lions Den Gorge, Fond du Lac Fairgrounds Aquatic Center, Manitowoc, Al Corso, Lake Orchard Farm Retreat, High Cliff State Park, Wells Brothers, Antiques on Piece, and Piccadilly Lilly. Learn more about these hidden gems in Wisconsin worth seeking out.

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