Wisconsin’s Most Beautiful Covered Bridges To Explore This Year
Wisconsin might be famous for its cheese and rolling farmland, but hidden throughout the state are some truly charming covered bridges that tell stories of simpler times. These wooden structures, with their rustic beams and weathered planks, offer a peek into the past while providing perfect spots for photography, picnics, and peaceful afternoon strolls.
Some cross rushing rivers, while others are modern recreations built to celebrate a classic style. Each one offers something different, from photo-worthy details to peaceful spots for a picnic or an easy afternoon stroll.
1. Cedarburg Covered Bridge (Cedarburg)
Built in 1876, this iconic red bridge spans Cedar Creek and stands as the last remaining covered bridge in the state from the 19th century. The 120-foot structure was originally constructed to help settlers cross the creek during harsh Wisconsin winters.
Walking through it feels like stepping back in time, with sunlight filtering through the wooden slats and the sound of water rushing below.
You can find this beauty in Covered Bridge Park, just off Washington Avenue. The surrounding area is perfect for a leisurely afternoon, with trails winding along the creek and plenty of spots to sit and enjoy nature.
During autumn, the foliage creates a stunning backdrop that photographers absolutely love.
The bridge underwent major restoration in 2016 to preserve its historic character while ensuring it remains safe for visitors. Today, it’s only open to foot traffic, which makes it even more peaceful.
Bring your camera, pack a lunch, and plan to spend some time exploring the park’s five miles of trails that connect to this charming landmark.
2. Springwater Volunteer Covered Bridge (Saxeville / Waushara County)
Community spirit built this bridge in 2005 when local volunteers came together to create something special for their small town. Spanning a peaceful stream near Saxeville, the 78-foot bridge was constructed using traditional methods and reclaimed timber.
It’s a testament to what neighbors can accomplish when they work together toward a common goal.
The bridge sits along a quiet country road where you’ll likely see more deer than cars. Surrounded by open farmland and wildflower meadows, it offers a quintessentially rural Wisconsin experience.
Spring brings blooming prairie flowers, while summer fills the air with the buzz of bees and butterflies visiting nearby plants.
What makes this bridge particularly special is its grassroots origin story. Local craftsmen donated their time and skills, creating a structure that serves both as a functional crossing and a gathering place for community events.
The bridge has become a popular spot for wedding photos and family portraits, capturing that authentic countryside charm that’s increasingly rare to find.
3. Smith Rapids Covered Bridge (Price County / Park Falls Area)
Deep in Wisconsin’s Northwoods, this bridge crosses the South Fork of the Flambeau River in one of the state’s most remote and beautiful settings. The 70-foot span was built in 1991 to replace an earlier structure, maintaining the historic character while providing access to the Smith Rapids area.
Towering pines and hardwoods create a cathedral-like atmosphere around the bridge.
Getting here requires a bit of adventure, which is part of the appeal. The bridge is located within the Flambeau River State Forest, where you might spot eagles soaring overhead or hear the call of loons echoing across the water.
The surrounding trails offer excellent hiking opportunities through pristine wilderness that feels worlds away from everyday life.
Anglers particularly love this spot because the rapids below attract trout and other fish species. The covered bridge provides shelter during sudden rain showers and serves as a scenic viewpoint for watching the river’s powerful flow.
Visit during fall when the forest explodes with color, creating a spectacular contrast against the weathered wood of the bridge.
4. Red Mill Covered Bridge (Waupaca)
Right in the heart of Waupaca’s historic district, this picturesque bridge connects to the old Red Mill building, creating a postcard-perfect scene. Constructed in 1995, the bridge honors the area’s milling heritage while providing pedestrian access across the Crystal River.
The bright red paint and classic design make it instantly recognizable and beloved by locals and tourists alike.
The mill itself dates back to the 1850s and has been beautifully restored, housing shops and galleries today. Standing on the bridge, you can watch the river flow past the old mill wheel and imagine how this spot buzzed with activity during Waupaca’s early days.
It’s a living history lesson wrapped in natural beauty.
Downtown Waupaca offers plenty of reasons to extend your visit beyond the bridge. Browse antique shops, grab lunch at a local cafe, or rent a kayak to explore the Chain O’ Lakes.
The bridge area hosts seasonal events and festivals throughout the year, making each visit feel different. Early morning visits reward you with mist rising from the river and quiet moments before the town wakes up.
5. Horton Covered Bridge (Amnicon Falls State Park)
Amnicon Falls State Park hides this gem among its cascading waterfalls and rocky gorges near Superior. Built to span the Amnicon River, the bridge offers visitors a unique vantage point to view the park’s stunning water features.
The combination of covered bridge architecture and powerful waterfalls creates one of Wisconsin’s most photogenic natural settings.
The park itself is relatively small but packed with scenic beauty. Multiple waterfalls tumble over ancient volcanic rock, creating misty spray and that soothing sound of rushing water.
The covered bridge connects trails that wind through the gorge, allowing you to explore different viewpoints and discover hidden cascades around every bend.
Spring snowmelt brings the waterfalls to their most dramatic, with thundering water that you can feel in your chest. Summer offers cooler temperatures in the shaded gorge, making it a refreshing escape from heat.
The bridge’s roof provides shelter during the frequent northern Wisconsin rain showers, and many visitors find themselves lingering here, mesmerized by the endless motion of falling water below.
6. Elroy Pedestrian Covered Bridge (Elroy)
Elroy calls itself the covered bridge capital of Wisconsin, and this pedestrian crossing proves why. Located along the famous Elroy-Sparta State Trail, one of America’s first rail-to-trail conversions, the bridge serves thousands of cyclists and hikers each year.
Its construction in the late 20th century honored the region’s covered bridge tradition while meeting modern recreational needs.
The trail itself is legendary among cycling enthusiasts, featuring three historic railroad tunnels carved through solid rock. The covered bridge provides a welcome break between these dark, cool tunnels and the open countryside.
Many riders stop here to rest, snap photos, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before continuing their journey.
Elroy embraces its trail town identity with bike-friendly amenities, cozy cafes, and welcoming locals who love sharing stories about the area. The bridge area includes picnic tables and information boards explaining the trail’s history and the engineering marvels of the nearby tunnels.
Visit during the annual Elroy Fair when the whole town celebrates with parades and festivities that often feature the covered bridge as a central landmark.
7. Glacial River Trail Covered Bridge (Fort Atkinson Area)
Southern Wisconsin’s Glacial River Trail features this lovely covered bridge that crosses wetlands teeming with wildlife. Built to enhance the trail experience for walkers, runners, and cyclists, the bridge offers protection from sun and rain while framing beautiful views of the surrounding marsh.
The design echoes historic covered bridges while incorporating modern materials for durability and low maintenance.
The trail follows an old railroad corridor through diverse landscapes including prairies, woodlands, and these extensive wetlands. From the bridge, you can spot herons wading in shallow water, turtles sunning on logs, and red-winged blackbirds calling from cattails.
Spring and fall migrations bring even more bird species, making this a favorite spot for nature enthusiasts with binoculars.
Fort Atkinson, just a short distance away, offers excellent dining and lodging options if you want to make a weekend of exploring the area. The trail connects to other regional paths, creating opportunities for longer rides through southeastern Wisconsin’s gently rolling terrain.
Summer evenings on the bridge are particularly magical, with fireflies dancing over the wetlands and the setting sun painting everything gold.
8. Stonefield Village Covered Bridge (Cassville)
Stonefield Village, a living history museum overlooking the Mississippi River, includes this authentic covered bridge as part of its recreated 1900s rural community. The bridge connects different areas of the village, where costumed interpreters demonstrate traditional crafts and explain daily life from over a century ago.
It’s not just a bridge but a portal to another time.
The museum sits on the former estate of Wisconsin’s first governor, Nelson Dewey, and the grounds offer spectacular views of the Mississippi River valley. After exploring the village and crossing the covered bridge, you can hike trails that wind through the property’s forests and prairies.
The combination of history, architecture, and natural beauty makes this a uniquely enriching destination.
Kids especially love Stonefield because they can interact with farm animals, watch blacksmiths work, and experience hands-on activities that bring history alive. The covered bridge often appears in the background of family photos, its weathered wood and classic design providing that perfect nostalgic touch.
Plan your visit during special event weekends when the village hosts demonstrations of historic skills like rope-making, woodworking, and traditional cooking methods.