Cuppett's Covered Bridge

About Cuppett's Covered Bridge

Cuppett's Covered Bridge is a 60-foot Burr Arch Truss bridge built in 1882 near New Paris. This privately owned, unpainted bridge spans Dunning Creek and features unusually low arches and open sides, giving it a distinctive rustic appearance.

History of Cuppett's Covered Bridge

Cuppett's Covered Bridge was built in 1882 on land owned by William and Phillip Cuppett, for whom it was named. The bridge is also sometimes called the New Paris Bridge due to its proximity to that community. It remains privately owned to this day. The bridge is no longer open to vehicular traffic and sits just to the side of the road that bypassed it on Route 96.

Architecture and Design

The bridge uses a Burr Arch Truss design with unusually low arches. At 60 feet long and 12 feet wide, it efficiently spans Dunning Creek. Unlike the traditionally painted white bridges of Bedford County, Cuppett's Covered Bridge is unpainted and allowed to weather naturally, giving it a rustic, weathered wood appearance. The open sides add to its distinctive character.

Visiting Cuppett's Covered Bridge

Cuppett's Covered Bridge is located just off Route 96, about a mile north of New Paris. The bridge is a short drive from the famous Gravity Hill and the Allegheny Front Hawk Watch. While the bridge can be seen from Route 96, there is nowhere to park along this roadway, so visitors wanting a closer look should access it via Manges Road. As the bridge is on private property, visitors should be respectful and look for any posted signs.