• Deadwood Covered Bridge features its slanted floorboards
The Deadwood Covered Bridge sits 6 miles northeast of the town of Deadwood, spanning Deadwood Creek and carrying Deadwood Loop Road over the stream. This medium-sized bridge is a charming stop on your way to or from the coast, offering a unique photo opportunity thanks to its portal shape reminiscent of Moorish architecture —an unusual sight in Oregon.
This 105-foot (32 m) long Howe truss structure is open to vehicles up to 10 tons, with a maximum height of 10'7".
This 105-foot (32 m) long Howe truss structure accommodates vehicles up to 10 tons and has a maximum height clearance of 10'7". One of the bridge's distinctive features is its slanted floorboards, designed to enhance motorist safety as they round the corner onto the bridge.
Additionally, a long window runs along the structure's north side, allowing natural light to illuminate the interior. These architectural elements, combined with the bridge's false end beams, semi-elliptical portal arches with trim, and large openings, create the bridge's memorable and picturesque appearance.
Deadwood Covered Bridge History
The Deadwood Covered Bridge, constructed in 1932 by Lane County's bridge builder Miller Sorenson, cost $4,814 (equivalent to $110,176.65 today). It was built as part of Oregon's secondary road system and quickly became a crucial part of local infrastructure.
However, in the 1970s, a concrete bridge was built nearby, bypassing the covered bridge. This led to the covered bridge's gradual deterioration due to lack of maintenance. Recognizing its historical significance, county officials undertook a restoration project in the 1980s.
The restoration process involved replacing damaged siding, flooring, and portal boards and repairing the bracing, roof, and approaches. Additionally, the original semi-elliptical portal arches were replaced with Tudor arch-style portals.
In October 1986, the bridge was rededicated in a ceremony marking its reopening. Today, the Deadwood Covered Bridge stands as a testament to historical preservation and local heritage.
Deadwood Covered Bridge | Facts
Architectural Bridge Design: Howe truss
Bridge access: Vehicle
Stream: Deadwood Creek
Bridge Length: 105 ft (32 m)
Built: 1932
Restored: 1986
Open: Year-round
Elevation: 300 ft (92 m)
Deadwood Covered Bridge is located:
- 33 miles northeast of Florence
- 53 miles northwest of Eugene
- 102 miles southwest of Salem.
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Deadwood Covered Bridge
- Head east on OR-36 East toward Deadwood Creek Rd/Lower Deadwood Creek Rd for 0.4 miles
- Turn left onto Deadwood Creek Road/Lower Deadwood Creek Road and follow it for 5.0 miles
- Turn right onto Deadwood Loop Road and follow it for 0.3 miles.