On the recommendation of the Eugene, Cascades, and Coast, I decided to do the driving tour of the covered bridges in Cottage Grove. Because there are 6 bridges in all, I’m splitting up the photos into two posts. This post will cover the Currin Bridge, the Dorena Bridge, and the Stewart Bridge.
Currin Bridge
I decided to start with the Currin Bridge. This bridge is the first one you’ll encounter if you drive down Row River Road to the east from exiting I-5. Drive 8.5 miles, and turn right on Layng Rd. If you aren’t attentive, you’ll pass by it before you know it. There’s a very small parking area in front of the bridge, but be careful not to block the mailboxes.
This bridge is walkable and has a beautiful interior.
Dorena Bridge
From the Currin Bridge, I got back onto Row River Rd and headed towards Dorena Lake and the Dorena Bridge. From the directions I had, I assumed it was closer, but it’s about 8.5 miles or so from the Currin Bridge. Just when I was about to give up and turn around, I saw signs that said the bridge was another 2.5 miles. The drive was worth it!
It is interesting to see different and unique the interiors of covered are. The Dorena Bridge has windows and louvered slats.
The rear side of this bridge is also pretty cool.
Parking here is fairly easy, but it is noted that this is a popular spot to swim, so parking may be full. It is a Lane County Park, so a parking fee is required. I parked on the roadside on the other side of Row River Rd.
Stewart Bridge
Once done with the Dorena Bridge, I went back towards Cottage Grove on Row River Rd and turned onto Garoutte Rd. This bridge is located where Garoutte Rd meets Mosby Creek Rd. Parking here is also a Lane County Park.
While almost all online information about this bridge shows it is pedestrian and bicycle friendly, it is currently fenced off. Hence the side view of the bridge without all the ugly looking fencing. 🙂 This view is from the top of the stairs that lead down to the water at the edge of the parking lot.
Our next post will talk about the Mosby Creek Bridge, the Centennial Bridge, and the Chambers Railroad Bridge.
