While Wisconsin is a state with a storied history in the logging and forestry industries, there are not many covered bridges that dot the Badger State, and far less that would be considered historic. Built in 1991, the Smith Rapids Covered Bridge over the South Fork of the Flambeau River in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest near Fifield, Wisconsin would not be considered historic, even though the bridge won an award in 1992 for an outstanding engineering project in Wisconsin. However, it is a true gem of northern Wisconsin.
Located on Rustic Road 105 in Price County, Wisconsin, the 94 foot long Smith Rapids Covered Bridge is a nice and easy diversion off of Wisconsin State Trunk Highway 70 and is adjacent to the Smith Rapids Recreation Area. Heading down the rustic road from WIS 70, you will soon encounter the only glue laminated covered bridge in all of Wisconsin. This bridge is built in a Town Lattice covered bridge design with its diamond shaped truss pattern, first patented by engineer and architect Ithiel Town in the year 1820. The bridge crosses the scenic South Fork of the Flambeau River, which is popular among paddlers and anglers. During my own adventures around Wisconsin, I happened to be in the area and decided to see the Smith Rapids Covered Bridge for myself.
How to Get There:
Sources and Links:
Chequamegon Covered Bridge - Bridgehunter.com
Smith Rapids Covered Bridge - Price County Wisconsin
Smith Rapids Covered Bridge - Travel Wisconsin
Smith Rapids Covered Bridge - Wisconsin Photo Guide
8 picture-perfect covered bridges to visit around Wisconsin - Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel
Comments