Autumn’s just chugging along, the colorful landscape showing off the natural beauty of Missouri. Before we know it, the fall foliage will be past its peak, and the fallen leaves will give way to snow. That makes now the perfect time to get outdoors and do a little leaf peeping. Can you think of anything prettier than a classic Missouri covered bridge flanked by fall colors? Visit one or all four of the covered bridges in Missouri for a lovely autumn experience.

1. Burfordville Covered Bridge – Burfordville
Burfordville Covered Bridge, 317 State Hwy HH, Burfordville, MO 63739, USA
Flickr/Richard
Once upon a time, Missouri laid claim to an estimated 30 covered bridges. Today, that number has dwindled substantially to just four. However, we’re still fortunate enough to be able to visit the four remaining covered bridges in Missouri, including the Burfordville Covered Bridge.

Burfordville Covered Bridge dates back to approximately 1858, earning it status as the oldest covered bridge in the state. Go leaf peeping at the covered bridge, framed by the fall trees. After that, spend some time exploring Bollinger Mill State Historic Site, where you’ll find sensational fall foliage that makes a beautiful backdrop for photographs.
2. Locust Creek Covered Bridge – Laclede
Locust Creek Covered Bridge State Historic Site, 16597 Dart Rd, Laclede, MO 64651, USA
Wikimedia Commons/Milanite
Poise your camera for spectacular fall foliage at Locust Creek Covered Bridge. The historic bridge spans 151 feet, making it the longest covered bridge in the state. You’ll find plenty of lush green grass near the covered bridge, making it an ideal spot for taking pictures or relaxing and enjoying the fall foliage.

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3. Sandy Creek Covered Bridge – Hillsboro
Sandy Creek Covered Bridge State Historic Site, 9090 Old Lemay Ferry Rd, Hillsboro, MO 63050, USA
Wikimedia Commons/Kbh3rd
When you first catch sight of Sandy Creek Covered Bridge, you might immediately be reminded of a classic red barn. That’s exactly the style in which the covered bridge was built. After admiring the fall foliage surrounding the covered bridge, sit down to a picnic lunch at one of the 12 picnic tables.
4. Union Covered Bridge – Paris
West Union Covered Bridge Road, W Union Covered Bridge Rd, Reserve Township, IN 47862, USA
Wikimedia Commons/Kbh3rd
Spend some time relaxing by Union Covered Bridge, which dates back to 1871. The bridge sits around lush trees, painted in fall’s colors, and grass. Get out of the car, snap some photos, and stretch your legs as you admire the historic bridge.

Have you been to these covered bridges in Missouri during the autumn, or were you still Googling “covered bridges near me?” Share your experience in the comments. Missouri’s brimming with spectacular spots to go leaf peeping. If you’re up for a leisurely drive, for example, set off on this one-hour journey along Sugar Camp National Scenic Byway.

For more exciting outings in Missouri, you can always peruse Airbnb Experiences. Here, locals offer all sorts of unique adventures that you might not get to enjoy otherwise.

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covered bridges in Missouri

Sarah | September 30, 2021

What's the highest bridge in Missouri?

 

Of all the cool bridges in Missouri, the Bond Bridge in Missouri stands out from the rest as the tallest bridge in the state. At an impressive 314 feet, the Bond Bridge earns props as the highest bridge in Missouri -- and one of the tallest in the country. It's also an extremely popular bridge, shuttling more than 100,000 motorists over the Missouri River each day. Have you crossed this bridge before? It really is an incredible place!

Are there any pedestrian bridges in Missouri?

 

There is something so enchanting about covered bridges, and nothing beats crossing them on foot. Today, Union Covered Bridge in Missouri is a popular stop for relaxing and snapping photos. One of only four remaining covered bridges in Missouri, Union Covered Bridge served as a way for travelers to cross over the Elk Fork of the Salt River. It was in use for just shy of a century. Today, visitors come to the quiet historic site to explore, snap photos of the covered bridge, and sit back for a leisurely picnic. Closed to vehicles, visitors can stroll through the covered bridge, which measures 120 feet and is 17.5 feet wide. Unlike the other three remaining covered bridges in Missouri, which are built according to the Huss Style, the Union Covered Bridge has a Burr-arch design.

What are some fun day trips to covered bridges in Missouri?

 

If you're looking for a fun day trip in Missouri, check out The Old Chain of Rocks Bridge, which is as historic as it is cool. The backstory: Route 66 was once the most important highway in the United States. It was one of the first transcontinental highway systems in the nation and was the primary road traveled by Americans migrating west during the 1930’s. The highway started in Chicago, Illinois, and ended in Santa Monica, California, with nearly 300 miles of road traveling through the Show Me State. One of the most notable bridges along the route was the Chain of Rocks Bridge. The bridge connected the Illinois and Missouri sections of Route 66. Although no longer open to traffic, this exceptional bridge has been preserved and is one of the most interesting spots along the old highway. Check it out for yourself!

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