See eight covered and natural bridges, “Dismalite” glow worms, great scenery, and even the work of a Benedictine monk.
This route showcases 6 of Alabama’s 10 covered bridges and both of its natural bridges. That is only one view of this scenic, 140-mile drive across the state. Beginning in Gadsden, 63 miles northeast of Birmingham on I-59, travel west over the striking Lookout Mountain Parkway on U.S. 278 to Rte. 75 south. After locating the first two bridges near Oneonta, travel eight miles west on U.S. 231 to Cleveland and continue north on U.S. 231 back to U.S. 278, through Cullman and the William Bankhead National Forest to Hamilton. Finally, head north on U.S. 43 to Russelville.
The first covered bridge is Gilliland Bridge next to Gadsden. It is part of wonderful Niccalula Falls Park that also has a Pioneer Village reconstruction. On Rte. 75, 2 miles before Oneonta, is Horton Mill Bridge, a 220-foot single span. Old Easely Bridge is also close to Rte. 160. On Rte. 79, a little south of Cleveland, is Swan-Joy Bridge. Nectar Covered Bridge is one mile east on Rte. 160 and is one of the country’s longest at 385 feet and four spans. In Cullman, the Ave Maria Grotto is an amazing miniature of famous buildings and churches covering three acres, lovingly constructed by a Benedictine monk. Also, Clarkson (Legg) Covered Bridge is nearby on County Road 11 in a pleasant rural setting with other restored buildings and a gristmill. A natural bridge can be found 15 miles out of Cullman, off U.S. 278 on County Road 63, but the perfect one is at Natural Bridge of Alabama near Haleyville. It is 148 feet long and 60 feet high with a scenic park surrounding it. Finally, the drive finishes at Dismals Canyon. Located 23 miles north of Hamilton, Dismals Canyon is one of the only locations outside New Zealand where an anomoly of nature, the “Dismalite” glow worm, is known to survive.
Starting Point:
Gadsden, AL
Distance of Drive:
189 miles
Must Eat:
Chestnut Station
410 Chestnut Street, Gadsden, AL 35901
Phone: 256-546-4229
Call ahead to confirm hours of operation.
Good Stop For: Steaks
Best Time of Year for Drive:
Fall colors are beautiful on this drive, but every season has its fine points.
Points of Interest on Drive:
Gilliland Bridge
Clarkson (Legg) Covered Bridge
Nectar Covered Bridge
Niccalula Falls Park
Natural Bridge of Alabama
Tagged with: Alabama • best time:yearround
Filed under: Best Road Trips