This year, Albany, Oregon, is our destination as we embark on a tour of the Covered Bridges of Linn County. Oregon’s first covered bridges emerged in the mid-1800s as pioneers settled the area, built from the region’s abundant timber. Trees were often felled nearby and the boards hand-hewn on-site to avoid transporting heavy lumber. Roofs were added to protect the wooden supports and planks from weathering, prolonging their use. Over time, new roads bypassed these original routes, and modern concrete-and-steel bridges replaced the wooden spans, leaving many covered bridges neglected. Still, their romantic allure endured, stirring the hearts of locals who recognized their historic value. In 1989, the Oregon Covered Bridge Program was launched to preserve these remaining landmarks of days past.

Our plan is to meander along the backroads, taking in the beauty of several of these bridges at a leisurely pace. Beyond the bridges, we’ll visit the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum in McMinnville, where the famous Spruce Goose is displayed. Other highlights include the Linn County Museum, the Historic Carousel and Museum, and a stop at The Country Bakery. We’ll also explore Thompson’s Mills, a rare piece of Oregon’s rural history. As the state’s last water-powered mill, it spans 160 years of stories, with turbines still in action during guided tours, driven by a water right that predates Oregon’s statehood.

We’ve scheduled our tour to seamlessly connect with the 2025 Modoc Tour for those interested in joining. You’ll have the option to drive to Alturas on Sunday, September 14, with the Modoc Tour taking place from September 15-19, 2025.