Pennsylvania has more covered bridges than any other state, which means a weekend drive can turn into a real treasure hunt. Some are painted barn red, some sit over quiet creeks, and a few are old enough to have carried horse-drawn wagons long before cars showed up.
Finding them takes a little patience because many hide down back roads far from the highway. That is part of the fun, and it is exactly why these ten spots reward drivers who slow down.
Here are ten charming Pennsylvania covered bridges that make the scenic route absolutely worth it.
1. Sachs Covered Bridge, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania
History buffs know Gettysburg for its battlefields, but the Sachs Covered Bridge sits just a short drive from town and tells its own story.
Built in 1854, this red wooden bridge stretches about 100 feet across Marsh Creek. It uses a Town lattice truss design, which was a popular building method in the 1800s.
The bridge no longer carries car traffic, so you can park nearby and walk across it at your own pace. That makes it a relaxed stop for photos and a stretch of the legs.
Because it sits close to the Gettysburg battlefield area, it fits nicely into a full day of exploring local history. The peaceful creek setting is a quiet contrast to the busier historic sites in town.
2. Bogert’s Covered Bridge, Allentown, Pennsylvania
You do not always have to leave the city to find one of these old bridges. Bogert’s Covered Bridge sits inside a park area in Allentown, which makes it one of the easiest on this list to reach.
Dating back to around 1841, it is one of the oldest covered bridges in the region. It crosses the Little Lehigh Creek and uses a wooden truss design common to the era.
The surrounding parkland gives families room to walk, picnic, and enjoy the water views. You can pair a visit with a stroll along the creekside trails nearby.
For anyone who wants an old bridge without a long rural drive, this one is a friendly starting point.
3. Knox Covered Bridge, Valley Forge, Pennsylvania
Tucked inside Valley Forge National Historical Park, the Knox Covered Bridge lets you mix Revolutionary history with a scenic drive.
The bridge crosses Valley Creek and still carries vehicle traffic, so you can actually drive through it as you explore the park. That hands-on feeling is part of its charm.
Its bright red exterior stands out against the surrounding woods, especially in fall when the leaves turn. The park itself offers trails, monuments, and open fields to explore.
Since admission to Valley Forge is free, this makes a budget-friendly outing. Combine the bridge with a longer walk or bike ride through one of the most famous historic parks in the state.
4. Hillsgrove Covered Bridge, Hillsgrove, Pennsylvania
Deep in Sullivan County, the Hillsgrove Covered Bridge crosses the clear waters of Loyalsock Creek. The setting alone makes the drive worthwhile.
Built in 1850, this bridge sits in an area known for its rugged natural beauty. The Loyalsock Creek is popular with anglers and paddlers, so you may spot people fishing or floating below.
The rural mountain surroundings feel a world away from busy towns. Roads out here twist through forest, which is exactly the kind of slow scenic route this list is about.
Visit during summer for creek activities or in autumn when the surrounding hills fill with color. Either way, the quiet location is a big part of the appeal.
5. Ashland Covered Bridge, Yorklyn area, Pennsylvania
Small in size but big on charm, the Ashland Covered Bridge sits near the Pennsylvania and Delaware border over Red Clay Creek.
It is one of the shorter covered bridges you will come across, which gives it a storybook quality. The bridge still handles light local traffic, so drivers can pass through it slowly.
The surrounding countryside is dotted with farmland and quiet back roads. That makes it a peaceful stop for anyone exploring the rolling landscape of the region.
Because it is close to the state line, it works well as part of a driving loop that crosses between Pennsylvania and Delaware. Bring a camera, since its compact frame photographs beautifully.
6. Bartram’s Covered Bridge, Newtown Square, Pennsylvania
Named after the famous Bartram family of botanists, this covered bridge near Newtown Square carries a bit of extra history with it.
Built in 1860, Bartram’s Covered Bridge crosses Crum Creek and sits along the border of Chester and Delaware counties. It is one of the last remaining covered bridges in the area.
The bridge is now closed to vehicle traffic, so it stands as a preserved piece of the past. You can walk up to it and take in the wooden framework up close.
Its location in a suburban and wooded setting makes it an easy add-on to a day trip near Philadelphia. History fans will appreciate the connection to one of America’s most well-known plant-collecting families.
7. Academia Pomeroy Covered Bridge, Juniata County, Pennsylvania
If you like a record-holder, the Academia Pomeroy Covered Bridge in Juniata County is the longest covered bridge in Pennsylvania.
Stretching over 270 feet across Tuscarora Creek, it uses a double-span design that gives it real presence. Built in 1902, it is a striking sight against the surrounding farmland.
The bridge is no longer used for regular traffic and is preserved as a historic landmark. Its length alone makes it stand out from the shorter bridges on this list.
The rural roads leading here are part of the experience, winding through central Pennsylvania countryside. For bridge fans who want something impressive, this is a memorable stop.
8. Kurtz’s Mill Covered Bridge, Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Lancaster County is covered bridge country, and Kurtz’s Mill Covered Bridge is one of the most accessible examples.
You can find it inside Lancaster County Central Park, where it crosses Mill Creek. The bridge was relocated to the park, which helped protect it after flooding damaged its original site.
Its home in a public park means plenty of trails, open space, and picnic areas nearby. That makes it a great choice for families who want more than just a quick photo stop.
The red bridge is easy to reach and free to visit. Combine it with a walk through one of the largest county parks in the region.
9. Hunsecker’s Mill Covered Bridge, Lancaster County, Pennsylvania
Another Lancaster County standout, Hunsecker’s Mill Covered Bridge, spans the Conestoga River and holds a notable title of its own.
It is one of the longest single-span covered bridges in the county. The current structure was rebuilt after flooding, keeping the classic look that visitors expect.
The bridge still carries vehicle traffic, so you can drive through it as part of a countryside loop. The surrounding farmland reflects the classic Lancaster County scenery.
Because Lancaster has so many covered bridges close together, this one pairs easily with others in the area. A single afternoon can turn into a mini bridge-hopping adventure through farm roads.
10. McConnells Mill Covered Bridge, Portersville, Pennsylvania
Set inside a dramatic state park, the McConnells Mill Covered Bridge combines old-world charm with striking natural scenery.
The bridge crosses Slippery Rock Creek within McConnells Mill State Park, an area known for its rocky gorge and rushing water. The setting makes it feel more adventurous than a typical roadside bridge.
Nearby you can explore the historic grist mill that gives the park its name, plus hiking trails through the gorge. The park is a favorite for hikers, climbers, and photographers.
Admission to the park is free, which makes it an affordable outing. The mix of a covered bridge, a working piece of history, and wild scenery makes this a fitting finish to any covered bridge road trip.
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