Discover the Historic Covered Bridges of Western Lancaster County

Fall is the perfect time to explore Lancaster County’s covered bridges. As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, these charming wooden structures blend into the autumn landscape, offering breathtaking views around every corner. Pennsylvania, home to more covered bridges than any other state, is a treasure trove for history lovers and sightseers alike, with nearly 30 of these bridges found in Lancaster County. Right in the northwestern part of the county, close to B.F. Hiestand House, you’ll find five iconic covered bridges spanning Chiques Creek, each with its own unique story and charm.

1. Forry’s Mill Covered Bridge
As the last covered bridge on Chiques Creek before it meets the Susquehanna River at Marietta, Forry’s Mill Covered Bridge feels like stepping into history. Built in 1869 by Civil War veteran Elias McMellen (who built and repaired numerous bridges in Lancaster), the bridge stretches 103 feet and is named after the Forry family, whose stone house still overlooks this charming red bridge. It’s a beautiful spot to take in both nature and a piece of Lancaster’s storied past.

2. Siegrist’s Mill Covered Bridge
Located just southwest of Mount Joy, Siegrist’s Mill Covered Bridge is known for its resilience and unique character. Built in 1885, this 102-foot bridge has faced floods and storms head-on. After being swept away by Tropical Storm Lee in 2011, it was lovingly reconstructed in 2013. Look closely, and you’ll notice a series of biblical passages painted on boards beneath the bridge deck—reinstalled as a tribute to the original structure.

3. Shenk’s (also Shenck's) Mill Covered Bridge
Dating back to 1847, Shenk’s Mill Covered Bridge is one of Lancaster County’s oldest surviving bridges. Destroyed by a storm in 1854 and rebuilt in 1855, it has horizontal sideboards that set it apart from the other bridges in the area. (Only three Lancaster County covered bridges have horizontal sideboards.) Sitting at 96 feet in length, it’s a classic sight along Shenk Road, with the historic Shenk farmhouse and mill right in view.

4. Kauffman’s Distillery Covered Bridge
First built in 1857 and later rebuilt by Elias McMellen (sound familiar?) in 1874, Kauffman’s Distillery Covered Bridge offers both a piece of history and a bit of nostalgia. Located southwest of Manheim, this 96-foot bridge is named after a whiskey distillery that was operated by two generations of the Kauffman family in the 1800s. It’s hard not to picture the days when this bridge was traversed by horse-drawn carriages making their way to town.

5. Shearer’s Covered Bridge
Unlike the other bridges along Chiques Creek, Shearer’s Covered Bridge isn’t quite where it started. Built in 1847 and reconstructed in 1855, it was ultimately relocated in 1971 to Manheim Memorial Park to preserve its history. Today, it crosses an 86-foot span over Chiques Creek and is painted entirely in a striking red, including both approaches, while the approaches on most covered bridges are painted white. Like Shenk’s Mill, this bridge is also unique for its horizontal sideboards.

Whether you’re exploring for a day or just looking to capture the beauty of Lancaster’s heritage, these bridges are a must-see, especially in fall. Take a colorful scenic drive, snap some Instagram-worthy photos, and enjoy the journey back in time across these historic wooden landmarks.