Colvin Covered Bridge

About Colvin Covered Bridge

Colvin Covered Bridge is a beautifully refurbished 66-foot Multiple Kingpost Truss bridge located on the edge of Shawnee State Park. Built in 1880, it crosses Shawnee Creek near Schellsburg and is one of only two non-Burr Truss bridges in the county.

History of Colvin Covered Bridge

Colvin Covered Bridge, also known as Calvin or Shiller Bridge, was built around 1880 by J. H. Thompson. It is probably the oldest county-owned covered bridge in Bedford County. The bridge has been recently refurbished and now looks pristine. It crosses Shawnee Creek just before the creek is dammed to create Shawnee Lake in the heart of Shawnee State Park.

Architecture and Design

The bridge utilizes a Multiple Kingpost Truss design, one of only two covered bridges in Bedford County not using a Burr Arch Truss. At 66 feet in length with a width of 12.5 feet, it efficiently spans Shawnee Creek. Unlike most Bedford County bridges that are painted white, Colvin Covered Bridge features red barn paint as its primary color, making it distinctive. The open-air construction on the sides provides excellent natural lighting inside.

Visiting Colvin Covered Bridge

Colvin Covered Bridge is located along Mill Road just south of Route 30 (Lincoln Highway) near the community of Schellsburg. There is a large parking area on the north side of the bridge which also serves as a trailhead for the 0.4-mile Colvin Trail that loops from the bridge to Shawnee Lake. The bridge is traversable and in excellent condition after recent refurbishment.