6 Undeniable Reasons To Visit The Oldest Covered Bridge In Virginia

There are countless unique day trips to enjoy here in the Old Dominion. Some involve great outdoor adventures, others are dedicated to delicious eats. And some still are something else altogether. Tucked away in the small mountain town of Covington, Virginia awaits one of the most underrated historical attractions in the state: Humpback Bridge. Not only is it Virginia’s oldest covered bridge, but it promises to bring your appreciation of this region of Virginia to a whole new level. Without further ado, here are six undeniable reasons why you should make the trip to Virginia’s oldest covered bridge:

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Humpback Bridge was constructed in 1857 in Covington, Virginia. The "covered" aspect helps increase the longevity of the support tresses and decking. It's located along Route 60 (look for exit 10 off of I-64).

VDOT/flickr

Did you know that covered bridges are sometimes referred to as "kissing bridges"? This nickname originated in the 19th century, when the bridge's covering made for the perfect opportunity to steal a kiss if they passed through in a horse and buggy. How romantic is that?

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The characteristic humpback of this bridge spans an impressive 100 feet above Dunlap Creek. Yet it's four feet taller in the middle, giving the bridge its unique curved shape.

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In 1929, a steel truss bridge was built for U.S. Route 60, meaning the bridge was no longer necessary for traffic. When you visit, you can enjoy exploring the bridge without having to worry about any traffic.

VDOT/flickr

Dunlap Creek is a tributary of the Jackson River and flows for just over 25 miles. The water is strikingly clear and creates the most beautiful setting for the bridge.

Wikipedia

Humpback Bridge is constructed from white oak and hickory wood. While the roof has been replaced since 1857, much of the hand-hewn support timber is original to the structure.

So are you convinced to visit this impressive historic landmark in Virginia? We’d love to hear your thoughts! For more information about Humpback Bridge, you can visit the official Virginia Department of Transportation website by clicking here.