Sometimes, the journey is the destination and in far northern Wisconsin, there’s a covered bridge that people cross, simply because they can. The Smith Rapids Covered Bridge is far away from cities and towns, on a road that just leads deeper into the forest. It’s not as old as it looks in photos, but it’s even more beautiful, and it’s a bridge worth crossing, even if it’s a little out of the way. When you arrive, you’ll understand why you came.
One of the beautiful creations of early American life has all but disappeared - the covered wooden bridge. Once common, about 90 percent of the country’s covered bridges disappeared, victims of the sun, wind and neglect.
Google / Matthew Sevier
But one old bridge proudly survives, in the heart of Wisconsin’s Northwoods. It spans the South Fork of the Flambeau River.
Google / Ken Nagel
The Smith Rapids Covered Bridge is located in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, a wild forest that covers more than a million acres.
Google / Ken Nagel
It’s an easy place to get lost, and many come here to lose themselves in the beauty of this gorgeous place. Forest roads provides endless miles of scenic driving and Rustic Road 105 (US Forest Road 148) will take you to you to this beautiful bridge.
Google / Shawana May
When you arrive you may ask yourself: how old is this thing, and will it hold my car?
Google / Shawana May
The answer: not as old a you think, and yes. The bridge was actually built in 1991 and it’s built to hold modern vehicles. Take your time as you drive across the lattice bridge and enjoy the experience!
Google / Tim O’Neil
The Smith Rapids Covered Bridge is based on a design that dates to 1820 and it’s beautiful – you may want to get out of the car to take some photos. Learn more on the Travel Wisconsin website. There are a lot of wonders to discover up north, You might even find the most enchanting town.
Google / Matthew Sevier
Google / Ken Nagel
Google / Shawana May
Google / Tim O’Neil
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Address: Chequamegon or Smith Rapids Covered Bridge, Smith Rapids Rd, Park Falls, WI 54552, USA
