Covered bridges are a charming link to our state's past. Spend a beautiful Oregon day exploring these covered bridges not far from Corvallis and Albany.

• Oak Creek Covered Bridge
  Oak Creek Covered Bridge is located on the edge of the Oregon State University campus, but it feels like a world away. Built in 1954, the bridge was designed to cross the Willamette Slough along Irish Bend Road, about 15 miles south of Corvallis. The name "Irish Bend Covered Bridge" is still used sometimes as a nod to the original location. When traffic dropped off in 1975 after the road was realigned, the bridge was finally dismantled in 1988, causing it to lose its spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Benton County and OSU joined forces to have the bridge reconstructed as part of a path through a research farm on university property, where it also regained its standing on the National Register of Historic Places in 2013.
  
  
• Harris Covered Bridge
  Like a Hollywood actor, Harris Covered Bridge has been rather coy about revealing its true age. Benton County records indicate that the bridge was built in 1936 to replace an older covered bridge at the same site. According to some locals, the bridge actually dates back to 1929. The rounded portal design lends a graceful appearance, while narrow windows just below the roofline allow natural light to fill the interior. H.W. Fiedler built the bridge, but the structure and the surrounding community both take their name from George Harris, a local pioneer landowner. Be sure to stop off at the Harris Bridge Vineyard, conveniently located within walking distance of the bridge. In addition to the tasting room, the vineyard includes lush grounds that are perfect for games and picnics.
  
  
• Chitwood Bridge
  It was once the centerpiece of a small but thriving community that included a post office, telephone office, and several shops and houses. Today, Chitwood Bridge stands alone as a testament to that long-ago time. In the early 1900s, Chitwood's economy revolved around logging, while the town was also a principal stop for the railroad that ran between Yaquina and Corvallis. When Lincoln County officials determined that the bridge needed repairs or replacement, a public hearing convinced the commissioners to do a complete renovation. Now the barn-red siding provides a picturesque contrast amidst the surrounding greenery.
  
  
• Hayden Bridge
  Out of the 50 covered bridges that remain in Oregon, only seven were built before 1920. With a construction date of 1918, Hayden Bridge is one of the "golden oldies," as well as the last covered bridge on a primary state highway. The 91-foot bridge spans the Alsea River, which was a popular site during the heyday of covered bridges. When the bridge was rebuilt in 1945, the rounded portals were converted to a more modern shape to accommodate larger vehicles. Despite the change, the bridge required additional repairs in 2006 when a logging truck crashed into it. Visitors to Hayden Bridge often make side trips to the nearby Leaping Lamb Farm and Alsea Fish Hatchery.

Corvallis is surrounded by a wonderful mix of history and natural beauty. Contact us at Coldwell Banker Valley Brokers to learn more from our real estate agents.