• Harris Covered Bridge sits right next to the vineyard
The Harris Covered Bridge spans the Marys River near Highway 20 in Benton County. It is open to traffic and carries Harris Road across, but the road to the bridge is partially gravel.
The bridge is a classic Howe truss design, 137 feet (42 m) long, with a 16.7 feet (5 m) deck.
The Harris Covered Bridge features include:
- Rounded portal
- Narrow windows below the roof line for natural light
- The longitudinal deck planks
- The board and batten-style siding
- Shingle roof
Harris Bridge Vineyard is right next door to the bridge. This way, you can swing by and enjoy the Oregon countryside, the calm Marys River, the historic covered bridge, and a glass of wine all at the same time.
Harris Covered Bridge History
H.W. Fiedler built the Harris Covered Bridge. Its official date of construction is 1936, but some locals claim it was actually 1929.
The bridge was named after George Harris, an early settler in the area. The community of Wren, where the bridge is located, was initially known as Elam but later renamed Harris in his honor.
Harris Covered Bridge replaced an earlier covered bridge at the same spot and has been in continuous use since its construction. It is still open to traffic and has become a landmark and a tourist attraction in Benton County.
On November 29, 1979, the Harris Covered Bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Harris Covered Bridge | Facts
Architectural Bridge Design: Howe truss
Bridge access: Vehicle
Stream: Marys River
Bridge Length: 137 ft (42 m)
Built: 1929 or 1936 (disputed)
Restored: 1986
Open: Year-round
Elevation: 500 ft (152 m)
Harris Covered Bridge is located:
- 14 miles west of Corvallis
- 46 miles soutwest of Salem
- 51 miles northwest of Eugene.
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Harris Covered Bridge
- Take US-20 West
- Turn right onto OR-223 North and then right onto Ritner Road
- Turn right onto Wren Road and then right onto Harris Road and follow it for 2.5 miles.