Covered Bridges Driving Tour

Each month CarSense highlights some of the best attractions in the region in a feature called "Sunday Drives."

March 21-22

If you liked the movie Bridges of Madison County, you’re in for another memorable drive through history, albeit closer to home (and without Clint Eastwood or Meryl Streep.) This one includes two counties worth of covered wooden bridges, which you can cover in several pleasant driving tours at your own pace (without speeding of course.)

There are 21 covered wooden bridges in Washington County, and a further 7 in neighboring Greene County, all listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Most are resplendent in red, white or in natural colors, most with Queen post truss-type construction, stone and mortar abutments and sheet metal roofs.

Best of all, you can take your tour in sections. The Southwest Washington County tour, for example, covers about 88 miles and 13 bridges, while the Eastern excursion is a 36-mile loop with four bridges. Or go Northwest to experience six beautiful bridges over 67 miles. The Greene County tour is 77 miles round trip and includes seven bridges. Whichever you choose, pack a lunch and a camera and enjoy the ride. For a downloadable booklet with details, imagery, descriptions, maps and driving instructions to each bridge, please visit the website.

Various locations around Washington and Greene Counties

866 927 4969