Of all the bridges in Wisconsin, there's no denying the whimsy of a covered bridge. They represent a different era or a time gone by. They're long-lasting engineering models that have withstood the test of time (and weather). They're full of history and nostalgia and are perfect places to explore here in the Badger State. The Cedarburg Covered Bridge in Wisconsin is one of the last of its kind. More than 140 years old, it's among the most historic places in Wisconsin. And just in case you need further convincing on why this is one of the best bridges in Wisconsin, we've put together the following list of undeniable reasons to visit the Cedarburg Covered Bridge in Wisconsin.
1. It is the oldest and longest covered bridge in Wisconsin.
Built in 1876, it's 120 feet long with a 13 foot clearance inside. Farmers requested a sturdy, reliable bridge be built here because the previous ones had all washed away and locals needed something they could count on. Later, the bridge would be reinforced to withstand the pressure of cars driving on it. Eventually, it was taken out of active commission and made into a foot bridge across Cedar Creek.
2. Covered Bridge Park
This 12-acre park was dedicated around the historic bridge to help preserve it and make it accessible to all. Now the park offers some of the best access to Cedar Creek. You can canoe, kayak, bird watch, or have a picnic and enjoy the surroundings. Not surprisingly, it's a popular place to take photos, so make sure to have a camera handy when you visit. You're sure to see a wedding or a senior picture being shot with the bridge and park as the backdrop.
3. There's so much history here.
Among the most historic places in Wisconsin, this is the only one of the state's original covered bridges remaining. A spate of covered bridges have popped up on state bike trails in the past decade or so, but this one dates back to 1876 and is hypothesized to have been used by farmers whose oxen would have been scared of the water.
4. The views and acces to Cedar Creek.
Cedar Creek is a meandering little stream through the center of downtown is a tributary of the Milwaukee River. Once the power behind a number of mills, it's now a great recreation spot, where you can canoe or kayak in incredibly clear water, as well as fish for northern pike, rock bass, smallmouth bass, bluegills, sunfish, carp, suckers, and bullheads.
5. The unique lattice design.
There are no bolts or nails holding the distinctive lattice together. Instead, the trusses are secured at the joints using oak pegs measuring 2 inches. The joints are covered by battens and the diagonal braces are tenoned to fit into cross tie beams, and fitted with 2-by-2-inch oak wedges.
6. You won't find something like it anywhere else in Wisconsin.
Being the longest covered bridge in Wisconsin isn't Cedarburg Covered Bridge's only claim to fame. It's also exceptionally rare. At a time, bridges like it were nothing special. Dozens of them dotted the landscape, but all the rest have disappeared into the vestiges of history. This bridge is a testament to its own construction, with its stable, steady use for well over 100 years.
7. Nearby historic and quaint Cedarburg.
This charming little town is often picked as one of the best in the state. A short drive from Milwaukee, it's one of the most historic places in Wisconsin, offering visitors the chance to step back in time with more than 100 buildings on the National Historic Register. It's a delightful, charming town with a winery, fabulous chocolate shop, and tons of stores to explore.
8. It'll transport you to the past.
It's easy to let your mind wander and be a bit fanciful when visiting Cedarburg Covered Bridge in Wisconsin. You can't help but imagine what life was like more than 100 years ago. Seniors might not have been using it as a background for portraits, but we're sure plenty of family free time was spent here. Across time and space, this little gorgeous bridge has remained, a testament to its architecture and a quintessential part of life in Cedarburg.
So, what do you think? Are you ready to visit the Cedarburg Covered Bridge in Wisconsin? Did you already know it was the longest covered bridge in Wisconsin? Tell us!
This is just one of the must-visit bridges in Wisconsin. Click here to read about the state's amazing natural bridge.
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