West Paden Covered Bridge

About West Paden Covered Bridge

West Paden Covered Bridge, originally built in 1884 and faithfully rebuilt in 2008, forms the larger half of Columbia County's famous Twin Bridges. This 100-foot span crosses Huntingdon Creek using a Burr Arch truss design, contrasting architecturally with its smaller Queen Post companion East Paden Bridge. Together, these structures create Pennsylvania's only remaining twin covered bridges and one of just two such pairs in the United States. The West Paden Bridge's story of destruction and resurrection demonstrates the community's deep commitment to preserving these iconic structures. Now part of Twin Bridges County Park, the bridge serves pedestrians only and features mural-covered picnic tables inside, creating one of Pennsylvania's most charming historic bridge experiences.

History

Originally constructed in 1884 by W.C. Pennington alongside its twin, West Paden Bridge served vehicle traffic crossing Huntingdon Creek for 79 years. The bridge was named after John Paden, operator of a nearby sawmill who supplied lumber for the construction. In 1963, when a new road bypassed the bridges, Twin Bridges County Park was created to preserve these unique structures and provide public recreation space. The original West Paden Bridge survived over 120 years until June 2006, when devastating floodwaters destroyed it completely. The loss of half the Twin Bridges galvanized the community and preservation organizations. Through determined effort and substantial funding, the bridge was meticulously rebuilt in 2008 following the original 1884 specifications and appearance. The reconstruction used traditional materials and methods where possible while incorporating modern engineering to ensure longevity. The rebuilt bridge maintained the original Burr Arch truss design, dimensions, and aesthetic character. The successful reconstruction preserved the Twin Bridges as a complete set and demonstrated the feasibility of rebuilding destroyed historic bridges when original documentation and community support exist.

Architecture

The 100-foot West Paden Bridge employs a Burr Arch truss design, the system patented by Theodore Burr that became Pennsylvania's dominant covered bridge structural type. This makes it architecturally different from its Queen Post companion East Paden Bridge, making them fraternal" rather than "identical" twins. The Burr Arch combines a supporting wooden arch with kingpost trusses providing exceptional strength for the bridge's longer 100-foot span. The 2008 reconstruction faithfully replicated the original design dimensions and appearance. The bridge features traditional red weatherboard siding and white-trimmed portals typical of Pennsylvania covered bridges. Inside the Burr Arch structure is clearly visible and like its twin the bridge now contains mural-covered picnic tables creating an enchanting indoor picnic space. Long rectangular window openings on both sides provide views of Huntingdon Creek and the surrounding forest while illuminating the interior. The reconstruction demonstrates how destroyed historic bridges can be authentically rebuilt using original specifications and traditional construction methods.

Visiting

West Paden Covered Bridge is located in Twin Bridges County Park alongside its companion East Paden Bridge accessible via Twin Bridges Lane off Route 487 near Orangeville. The park offers excellent facilities including ample parking picnic areas grills and benches in a beautiful wooded creek setting. As a pedestrian-only bridge visitors can explore West Paden Bridge leisurely examining its Burr Arch construction and comparing it with the different Queen Post design of East Paden Bridge. The mural-covered picnic tables inside create Pennsylvania's most distinctive covered bridge picnic experience. The park setting provides creek access wooded scenery and peaceful natural surroundings perfect for family outings or photography. The Twin Bridges create unique photographic opportunities unavailable elsewhere in Pennsylvania - the only location where two covered bridges can be captured side-by-side in a single image. The bridges are particularly photogenic during spring when Huntingdon Creek flows high and surrounding vegetation is lush or during autumn when fall foliage creates vibrant color displays around the bridges. The nearby Josiah Hess Covered Bridge is just two minutes away allowing visitors to experience three of Columbia County's most significant bridges in one trip. The Twin Bridges have been featured multiple times in the Columbia-Montour Visitors Bureau's annual covered bridge puzzle series and remain among Pennsylvania's most photographed and beloved covered bridges. Best visited April through November when weather and park conditions are optimal for outdoor enjoyment.