Originally built in 1886, this unique three-span bridge was destroyed in the 2018 Camp Fire and meticulously rebuilt, reopening in 2025 as a symbol of Butte County's resilience.
Honey Run Covered Bridge stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and community spirit in Butte County. Originally built in 1886, this unique three-span Pratt truss bridge was the last of its kind in the United States until its tragic destruction in the devastating Camp Fire on November 8, 2018. Through determined community effort led by the Honey Run Covered Bridge Association, the bridge was meticulously rebuilt and officially reopened on June 1, 2025, retaining its original appearance with modern safety upgrades.
The American Bridge and Building Company of San Francisco constructed the original bridge in 1886 for $4,300 to connect Butte Creek Canyon and Paradise Ridge after gold discovery in Butte County. Originally known as Carr Hill Bridge, it opened January 3, 1887. In 1965, a panel truck crash severely damaged the bridge, prompting county plans for demolition. The newly-formed Honey Run Covered Bridge Association saved it through fundraising, beginning their famous annual pancake breakfast tradition. The bridge survived the 2008 Humboldt Fire but could not withstand the 2018 Camp Fire's intensity. The $6-9 million rebuilding effort began in 2022, with the structure returning to its 240-foot glory by 2025.
The 240-foot bridge spans Butte Creek with a distinctive three-span Pratt truss design—a configuration that made it unique in the United States. The rebuilt bridge maintains the original size, shape, and appearance with enhanced structural integrity including a steel frame and 4-foot diameter pillars extending 41 feet deep (versus the original 3-foot pillars at just 2 feet due to erosion). The wooden exterior will naturally weather to match the aged appearance of the original. The bridge closed to vehicle traffic in 1965 and now serves pedestrians only.
Located on Honey Run Road near Chico in Butte Creek Canyon. From Highway 99, take Highway 32 east toward Forest Ranch, then follow signs to Honey Run Road. GPS: 39.7845°N, 121.6234°W. The bridge anchors Honey Run Covered Bridge Park, offering picnic areas and scenic Butte Creek access. The annual pancake breakfast continues as a beloved tradition. Best visited spring-summer for comfortable weather and full creek flow. The bridge's reopening represents Butte County's remarkable recovery and determination following the Camp Fire tragedy.
Historic 1862 covered bridge at South Yuba River State Park. Longest single-span wooden covered bridge in the world, spanning 230 feet over the South Yuba River.
Historic 1864 covered bridge spanning the Stanislaus River. At 355 feet, it's the longest covered bridge in California and west of the Mississippi River.
Historic covered bridge in Yosemite National Park, built in 1868 by Galen Clark. The only covered bridge in the western region of the National Park System.