Riverdale Road Covered Bridge

About Riverdale Road Covered Bridge

The Riverdale Road Covered Bridge is a 114-foot Town lattice bridge spanning the Grand River. Built in 1874, it sits dramatically high above the river, offering impressive views of the waterway below.

History of Riverdale Road Covered Bridge

The bridge was constructed in 1874, during the peak era of covered bridge building in America. In 1981, the floor was rebuilt and glue-laminated wood girders were added to strengthen the structure. This renovation allowed the historic bridge to continue serving modern traffic while preserving its 19th-century character.

Architecture and Design

The Riverdale Road Bridge features Town lattice truss construction. Its elevated position above the Grand River demonstrates the engineering skill of 19th-century bridge builders who had to span not just the river but also the steep valley walls. The clearance height is 9 feet 6 inches.

Visiting Riverdale Road Covered Bridge

The bridge is located approximately 9.2 miles from the Mechanicsville Bridge on the county's covered bridge trail. Its elevated position provides scenic views of the Grand River valley, making it a particularly photogenic stop. The bridge is popular with photographers, especially during fall foliage season when the surrounding forests display brilliant autumn colors.