The Oldest Covered Bridge In Minnesota Has Been Around Since 1869

Thanks to the long history of human activity in Minnesota, there are many old monuments and landmarks that tell the story of the state’s past. Some of the oldest, like Indian Mounds Regional Park and Jeffers Petroglyphs, show Minnesota’s ancient history. Others show a more recent – but still fascinating – history. That’s certainly the case for Minnesota’s oldest – and only – covered bridge. It’s been around since 1869, just 11 years after Minnesota’s statehood, and it still stands as a reminder of Minnesota history. Read on to learn about the history of the Zumbrota Covered Bridge:

The Zumbrota Covered Bridge is a historic bridge in the tiny southeastern Minnesota town of Zumbrota. You’ll find it at the town’s Covered Bridge Park.

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As soon as you set eyes on the bridge, it will be clear that it is over a century old. The wooden construction harkens back to an earlier time. To be exact, the bridge was built in 1869.

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The bridge was built as a replacement after the original was destroyed by flooding. The roof wasn’t added until 1871.

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Despite damage it sustained during a heavy snowstorm in 2019, the bridge still stands as a charming addition to a lovely small-town park. It crosses a narrow stretch of the Zumbro River.

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As you’ll see on the commemorative placard, the bridge was moved to its present location in 1997. Formerly at the county fairgrounds, the new, quieter location helps keep the bridge preserved.

Ryan M./Google

The bridge is only accessible to pedestrians and cyclists, so it’s an easy, safe place to explore with kids. They’ll love to explore every inch of this 116-foot bridge!

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The Covered Bridge Park is a trailhead for the Goodhue Pioneer Regional Trail. It’s a great starting point to explore more of southeastern Minnesota, and it’s a fantastic way to get an up-close glimpse of Minnesota’s long history.

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Have you ever been to the Zumbrota Covered Bridge? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below! And if you can’t get enough of Minnesota’s historic bridges, you may be interested in our article about the 140-year-old Stone Arch Bridge.