Bowser Covered Bridge

About Bowser Covered Bridge

Bowser Covered Bridge, also known as Osterburg Covered Bridge, is a 90-foot Burr Arch Truss bridge built in 1890 near Osterburg. It is the northernmost covered bridge in Bedford County and crosses Bobs Creek, a tributary of Dunning Creek.

History of Bowser Covered Bridge

Bowser Covered Bridge was built in 1890 and served as an important crossing over Bobs Creek for the local community. In the 1970s, it was bypassed by a new steel and concrete bridge, and the covered bridge was closed to traffic. The bridge is county-owned and has been preserved for historical appreciation. It is located near several notable attractions including the Lost Children of the Alleghenies Monument.

Architecture and Design

The bridge uses a Burr Arch Truss design with horizontal bracing at truss top level. At 90 feet long, it efficiently spans Bobs Creek. The bridge has vertical boards on the lower third of its sides and features the traditional white and red color scheme of Bedford County bridges. It sits on stone and mortar abutments that have supported the structure for over 130 years.

Visiting Bowser Covered Bridge

Bowser Covered Bridge is located along Route 869 near Osterburg, about a few miles west of I-99. There is a good-sized pull-off along Route 869 for visitors who want to get a closer look at this bridge. Nearby attractions include the Lost Children of the Alleghenies Monument, Blue Knob (the second-highest point in PA), and the Pavia Lookout Loop Trail in Blue Knob State Park.