Explore 9 Stunning Covered Bridges On A Scenic West Virginia Day Trip

West Virginia’s covered bridges tell stories of simpler times when wooden spans carried families across rushing creeks and quiet streams.

These historic structures survived decades of weather, floods, and progress to become treasured landmarks.

Pack your camera and comfortable shoes for an unforgettable journey through mountain valleys and small towns where these architectural gems still stand proudly today.

1. Sarvis Fork Covered Bridge

Built in 1889, this charming red bridge stretches 40 feet across Sarvis Fork Creek in Webster County. Local farmers once drove their cattle through this tunnel-like structure during harsh winters.

The bridge features classic Kingpost truss construction that has weathered over 130 years of mountain storms. Photographers love capturing its reflection in the calm waters below during early morning hours.

Park along the gravel road and explore the surrounding woodland trails for wildflowers and bird watching opportunities year-round.

2. Staats Mill Covered Bridge

This 1887 beauty in Jackson County spans Mill Creek with its distinctive white exterior and green metal roof. Originally built to serve the bustling Staats gristmill operation that ground corn for local families.

The 42-foot span showcases traditional Multiple Kingpost truss design that engineers still study today. Heavy timber beams remain remarkably solid despite decades of flood waters rushing beneath.

Visit during autumn when maple trees create a golden canopy overhead, making this spot perfect for family photos and peaceful picnics.

3. Walkersville Covered Bridge

Dating back to 1905, this Lewis County landmark carries visitors 38 feet across Leading Creek. The structure served as a vital link between farming communities and the county courthouse for generations.

Weathered gray boards tell tales of horse-drawn wagons, Model T Fords, and countless school children who crossed daily. The Town Lattice truss system creates interesting shadow patterns inside the covered walkway.

Local legend claims newlyweds who kiss while crossing will enjoy 50 years of happiness together, making this a popular wedding photography destination.

4. Philippi Covered Bridge

This famous 1852 structure in Barbour County witnessed the first land battle of the Civil War on June 3, 1861. Union and Confederate soldiers actually fought on and around this historic span.

The 285-foot double-barrel bridge remains the longest covered bridge in West Virginia today. Two separate traffic lanes allowed wagons to pass safely without meeting head-on during busy market days.

A small museum nearby displays artifacts from the battle, including musket balls found in the bridge’s wooden beams decades later.

5. Fletcher Covered Bridge

Nestled in Harrison County since 1891, this 45-foot span crosses Simpson Creek with remarkable grace. The bridge’s natural wood finish has aged to a beautiful silver-gray patina over 130+ years.

Burr Arch truss construction makes this structure incredibly strong, supporting heavy farm equipment well into the 1960s. Hand-forged iron bolts and wooden pegs still hold everything together without modern fasteners.

The surrounding meadow bursts with black-eyed Susans and Queen Anne’s lace during summer months, creating a postcard-perfect rural scene.

6. Center Point Covered Bridge

This 1888 gem in Doddridge County spans Middle Island Creek with its distinctive red paint job that locals refresh every few years. The 52-foot structure once connected isolated mountain families to the outside world.

Multiple Kingpost trusses create an intricate web of wooden beams visible from inside the bridge tunnel. Original hand-hewn chestnut timbers remain incredibly solid despite their advanced age.

The nearby swimming hole attracts families during hot summer days, while the bridge provides perfect shade for lunch breaks and storytelling sessions.

7. Simpson Creek Covered Bridge

Built in 1881, this Harrison County treasure spans 36 feet across its namesake creek with understated elegance. The natural wood exterior has weathered to a warm honey color that glows beautifully in afternoon sunlight.

Town Lattice truss work creates diamond-shaped patterns that children love counting during family visits. The bridge sits low over the water, allowing easy access for creek exploration and rock skipping.

Fishing enthusiasts often catch smallmouth bass and bluegill from the shaded pools just downstream from this peaceful countryside landmark.

8. Barrackville Covered Bridge

This 1853 Marion County landmark stretches 145 feet across Buffalo Creek, making it one of West Virginia’s most impressive spans. The structure survived multiple floods that destroyed many other regional bridges.

Burr Arch construction with massive timber arches creates cathedral-like spaces inside the covered walkway. The bridge carried coal wagons from nearby mines to railroad loading stations for over 100 years.

Ghost hunters claim the bridge is haunted by a Civil War soldier, though most visitors only encounter friendly local cats who enjoy napping in the cool shade.

9. Dents Run Covered Bridge

Monongalia County’s 1889 masterpiece crosses Dents Run with its cheerful yellow exterior that brightens even the gloomiest mountain days. The 40-foot span connects two hills through a narrow valley perfect for hiking.

Kingpost truss design showcases the mathematical precision of 19th-century bridge builders who worked without modern engineering tools. Hand-carved wooden joints fit together like giant puzzle pieces that have never loosened.

The bridge appears in several Hollywood movies filmed in West Virginia, though locals still treat it as their private neighborhood treasure.