aventuro Back to map A
Historical places

Historic Fallasburg Covered Bridge

4.8 · 570 reviews
A quiet and rustic historical setting
Historic Fallasburg Covered Bridge, 13944 Covered Bridge Rd NE, Lowell, MI 49331, United States
Interesting facts
1

The bridge was constructed for $1,700 in 1871.

2

It is one of only five remaining historic covered bridges in Michigan.

3

The interior rafters bear initials and dates carved by visitors over the last 150 years.

4

The structure was moved slightly during a 1990s restoration to secure it on modern concrete abutments.

5

It was designed by Jared N. Brazee, who utilized a modified Burr Arch truss design.

6

The bridge has survived multiple floods, including a significant event in 1904 that destroyed nearby mills.

7

The bridge is frequently used for wedding and graduation photography due to its preserved 19th-century aesthetics.

Overview

The Historic Fallasburg Covered Bridge is one of the few remaining authentic covered bridges in Michigan, originally constructed in 1871. Spanning the Flat River, this Burr Arch truss bridge measures 100 feet in length. It was built by Jared N. Brazee and remains a rare example of 19th-century timber engineering that still supports light vehicle traffic. The bridge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has undergone multiple structural rehabilitations to preserve its original wood frame. It is situated within the Fallasburg Park system, a site established by the Kent County Parks Department. The structure features white-painted horizontal siding and a red-painted shingled roof, characteristic of the period's architectural style. It remains the centerpiece of the local Fallasburg Fall Festival, which has been held annually since 1968.

Photo spot

The riverbank on the south side of the bridge offers the best perspective of the entire structure and its reflection.

Insider tips

Combine your visit with a walk along the adjacent Flat River nature trails.

Visit during the fall months to see the surrounding hardwoods in peak foliage.

Drive through slowly as the bridge is single-lane and shared with pedestrians.

What to avoid

Attempting to cross in large recreational vehicles or heavy trucks that exceed weight restrictions.

Etiquette

Respect the historic wood structure by not carving or marking the interior surfaces.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
30-45 minutes
Best time to visit
Autumn, mid-morning for optimal natural light on the wooden siding.
Address
Historic Fallasburg Covered Bridge, 13944 Covered Bridge Rd NE, Lowell, MI 49331, United States
42.980, -85.327
Get directions
Details
Construction TypeBurr Arch truss
Historical DesignationNational Register of Historic Places

Frequently asked

Plan for about 30-45 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Autumn, mid-morning for optimal natural light on the wooden siding..

The riverbank on the south side of the bridge offers the best perspective of the entire structure and its reflection.

Close by you'll find Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park, Ada Park.