It is the longest remaining covered bridge in Alabama.
The structure utilizes a Town lattice truss design, which uses wooden planks arranged in a crisscross pattern to support the bridge's weight without requiring heavy interior beams.
The bridge was built during the Great Depression, reflecting the era's reliance on cost-effective, locally sourced timber engineering.
The Locust Fork river below the bridge is a popular destination for whitewater kayaking and canoeing during high-water seasons.
Swann Covered Bridge is a 330-foot-long Town lattice truss structure spanning the Locust Fork of the Black Warrior River in Blount County, Alabama. Originally constructed in 1933 to provide a crossing for local farmers, it remains one of the longest existing covered bridges in the state. The bridge was closed to vehicular traffic in 1979 following the completion of a modern bypass nearby. It underwent significant structural restoration in 2012 to stabilize the timbers and preserve the original design. The bridge is part of the Blount County covered bridge route, which celebrates the region's historical transportation architecture. It features open sides and a corrugated metal roof, typical of Alabama's historical bridge construction style.
The riverbank directly beneath the bridge offers a clear, symmetrical view of the entire 330-foot span.
Bring a sturdy pair of shoes if you intend to hike down to the riverbank for a wider perspective.
Check local weather reports, as the area around the bridge can become muddy after rainfall.
Carry insect repellent during the warmer summer months.
Do not attempt to drive a vehicle across the bridge, as it is permanently closed to traffic and structurally reinforced for pedestrian use only.
Avoid climbing on the structural trusses to ensure the preservation of the historic timber.
