Office Covered Bridge aka Westfir - The Longest Bridge in Oregon!

The Office Covered Bridge, also known as the Westfir Covered Bridge, is located in the small town of Westfir in Lane County. It spans the scenic North Fork Middle Fork Willamette River, carrying Westfir-Oakridge Road across its waters.

The bridge marks the southern entrance to the Aufderheide National Scenic Byway and serves as a gateway to the lush expanses of the Willamette National Forest. At 180 feet (55 m) long, it is the longest covered bridge in Oregon.

One of only two bridges in the state using triple Howe truss construction, it is also the only covered bridge west of the Mississippi River with a separate pedestrian walkway. After being closed to the public for many years, the bridge now features a small park on its north side. It also serves as a trailhead to the North Fork Trail #3666 and provides access to the river’s “Wild and Scenic” section.

During the holiday season, the bridge is illuminated with festive lights, highlighted by a switch-on event led by Santa Claus driving a fire truck.

Nearby, the Pengra Covered Bridge, built using two of the longest timbers in Oregon’s covered bridge history, offers another glimpse into the state’s unique covered bridge heritage.

Office Covered Bridge History

Constructed in 1944, the Office Covered Bridge replaced a 1941 bridge destroyed by flooding. The Westfir Lumber Company built it to transport heavy logging equipment and timber across the river to its mill.

The bridge was located near the company offices—now a charming bed and breakfast—which inspired its name. Initially owned by the lumber company, both the town of Westfir and the bridge were sold to an investment firm in 1977. Two years later, in 1979, the bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Following the mill’s destruction by fire in the early 1980s and a subsequent change of ownership due to tax foreclosure in 1992, Lane County assumed responsibility for the bridge, ensuring its preservation. Over the years, it has undergone several repairs, including structural reinforcement in 1993 and roof replacements in 2002.

Why is this bridge so special?

Historic Significance: Built in 1944 to replace a flood-destroyed bridge, it reflects Westfir’s lumber history and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.

Unique Design: At 180 feet, it’s the longest covered bridge in Oregon, featuring rare triple Howe truss construction and the only separate pedestrian walkway west of the Mississippi River.

Scenic & Recreational Link: Open to pedestrians, the bridge connects to the North Fork Trail #3666, provides access to the “Wild and Scenic” river, and hosts seasonal events like the holiday lights switch-on.