Visit the last four historic covered bridges in Missouri

Burfordville Covered Bridge

Located at Bollinger Mill State Historic Site, near Cape Girardeau, Burfordville is the state’s oldest remaining covered bridge. Construction began in 1858, well before the Civil War, and it’s been restored several times over the past century. Today, the bridge and adjacent Bollinger Mill provide the perfect subject for painters and photographers. 113 Bollinger Mill, Burfordville, 573-243-4591.

Locust Creek Covered Bridge

Built from white pine in 1868, this 151-foot bridge is the longest covered bridge in the state. At one time, it was partof Route 8, the nation’s first transcontinental highway, until U.S. Highway 36 bypassed the route. 16957 Dart, Laclede, 660-963-2525.

Sandy Creek Covered Bridge

Resembling a red barn, Sandy Creek Covered Bridge in Jefferson County is a scenic spot for a picnic. Built in 1872, it’s one of three remaining covered bridges (along with Burfordville and Locust Creek) in Missouri constructed with a Howe truss design. 9001 Old Lemay Ferry, Hillsboro, 636-464-2976.

Union Covered Bridge

Named for the nearby Union Church, the 120-foot-long white bridge was built in 1871. Inthe late ’60s, it was partially restored with materials fromthe nearby Mexico Covered Bridge, destroyed by flooding. The Union bridge almost washed away itself in 2008, but someof the lower siding was removed, allowing the rising water toflow through and spare it the brunt of the current. 20700 Monroe County Road 962, Paris, 573-565-3449.