Travel + Leisure’s recent list of the “10 Best Covered Bridge Road Trips in the U.S. to Take this Fall” includes a standout entry from Alabama: the historic covered bridges of Blount County. Situated just a short drive from Oneonta, the three bridges—Swann Covered Bridge, Easley Covered Bridge and Horton Mill Bridge—offer a perfect blend of scenic beauty, family‑friendly exploration, and a touch of Southern heritage.
Why These Bridges Made the List
Swann Covered Bridge stretches 324 feet across the Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River, making it Alabama’s longest surviving covered bridge. Easley Covered Bridge, the oldest and shortest of the trio, showcases classic 19th‑century craftsmanship. Horton Mill Bridge spans the river roughly 70 feet above the water, ranking among the nation’s highest historic covered bridges. All three employ the Town lattice truss design, a hallmark of 19th‑century American bridge engineering.
Planning Your Autumn Adventure
Fall in Alabama brings cooler temperatures, vibrant foliage, and fewer crowds—ideal conditions for a leisurely drive along U.S. 231 and state highways 75 and 79. Pack a pumpkin‑spice latte, stop in Oneonta for a bite at a local café, and take time to wander the small towns that dot the route. The surrounding countryside offers rolling hills, farm fields and opportunities to photograph the changing leaves reflected in the river below.
Other Covered Bridges Worth Visiting
While the Blount County trio is the highlight, the North Alabama region boasts additional historic structures such as Cambron Covered Bridge, Clarkson Covered Bridge, Gilliland Reese Covered Bridge and Old Union Covered Bridge. Each provides a glimpse into the state’s engineering past and makes for a charming photo stop.
Travel Tips
- Timing: Mid‑October to early November typically yields the most vivid foliage.
- Parking: Designated pull‑off areas are available near each bridge; be mindful of local traffic and pedestrians.
- Safety: The bridges are open to pedestrians and cyclists; vehicle traffic is limited to the adjacent roadways.
- Local amenities: Oneonta offers several diners, antique shops and a historic downtown square worth exploring.
Supporting Local Communities
Road‑tripping through Blount County not only provides a beautiful autumn experience but also supports local businesses that rely on tourism. Visiting the bridges, dining at family‑run eateries, and purchasing locally made crafts help sustain the region’s economy and preserve its cultural heritage.
Whether you’re a resident looking for a weekend getaway or a visitor seeking authentic Southern scenery, the covered bridges of Blount County deliver a memorable fall road‑trip that celebrates Alabama’s natural beauty and historic charm.
Original reporting: The Tuscaloosa Thread — read the source article.
