Stewart Covered Bridge - Cottage Grove’s Historic Span

The Stewart Covered Bridge crosses Mosby Creek east of Cottage Grove, just a short hop from I‑5 via Layng Road, which connects to Mosby Creek Road. This classic white bridge dates to 1930. The 60-foot (18 m) covered Howe truss spans a deep pool that has long been a popular summer swimming spot. Today, the bridge is closed to the public.

The semicircular portal arches frame the water and surrounding trees, while slim ribbon openings along the eaves let soft light cascade across the beams. You hear the creek below and the sound of your steps on the planks—a simple, calm, and nostalgic experience.

The pool below remains a favorite on 80–95°F summer days. Families wade at the edge, cyclists dip tired legs, and teens float in the gentle current.

For more exploration, check out the Cottage Grove Covered Bridge Tour and nearby segments of the Row River Trail. It’s an easy add-on to a Willamette Valley road trip between Eugene and Roseburg.

Stewart Covered Bridge History

Built in 1930, the Stewart Covered Bridge served the Mosby Creek crossing near Walden and Cottage Grove.

Nature took its toll: the 1964 Christmas Flood cracked the lower chords, and a few winters later, heavy snowfall damaged the roof, causing it to collapse. Repairs over the years kept the bridge standing.

It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. When stepping inside, the bridge feels sturdy and honest—built for daily travel and later preserved for visitors.

In 1980, a concrete bridge nearby took over traffic, and by 1987 the wooden span was closed for safety and preservation, with fencing and timber treatments applied.

Restoration arrived in the 1990s through the Oregon Covered Bridge Program, and the bridge reopened to pedestrians and bicycles in 1996. Today, vehicles remain prohibited, but visitors can still admire the bridge and its surroundings from outside the deck.

Why is this bridge so special?

Historic Significance: Built in 1930; listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979; bypassed by a concrete bridge in 1980; closed for safety in 1987; restored and reopened to pedestrians in 1996.

Unique Design: Covered Howe truss with semicircular portal arches, ribbon openings along the eaves, and decorative S‑curve brackets that let in light and add charm.

Easy Stop: About 4 miles from downtown Cottage Grove, with quick access from I‑5. Pairs well with the Row River Trail and the Cottage Grove Covered Bridge Tour.