10 Oregon Bridges So Stunning They Feel Like Works Of Art
Oregon’s scenery isn’t only defined by its rugged mountains and dramatic coastlines. It also boasts some of the most remarkable bridges in the country.
These feats of engineering stretch across rivers, gorges, and bays, showcasing styles that range from Gothic elegance to striking Art Deco design.
Some were crafted by the legendary Conde McCullough, others by equally visionary minds, but all share one thing in common: turning an ordinary crossing into a memorable experience.
1. St. Johns Bridge: Portland’s Gothic Cathedral
Soaring 205 feet above the Willamette River, this emerald-painted suspension bridge looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. The Gothic-style towers with pointed arches inspired the name of Cathedral Park below.
I remember visiting on a foggy morning when the towers disappeared into mist, creating an almost mystical scene. For the perfect photo, head to Cathedral Park and frame your shot through those magnificent green arches.
2. Tilikum Crossing: The Bridge That Dances With Light
Unlike any other bridge in Portland, Tilikum Crossing bans cars completely, welcoming only pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit. What makes it truly magical happens after sunset when its cables transform into a light show.
The illumination system responds to the Willamette River’s data in real-time, changing colors and patterns based on water temperature, height, and speed.
For the best view of this living art installation, stroll along the South Waterfront or Eastbank Esplanade.
3. Benson Bridge: Suspended Between Waterfalls
Perched 105 feet above the lower cascade of Oregon’s tallest waterfall, this petite footbridge creates one of the state’s most iconic views. Built in 1914 thanks to lumber baron Simon Benson, the reinforced concrete span provides the perfect vantage point.
Walking across feels like stepping into a postcard. The mist from Multnomah Falls creates rainbows on sunny days, and sometimes you’ll get pleasantly damp just crossing it. Early morning visits help avoid crowds on this popular pathway.
4. Yaquina Bay Bridge: Newport’s Art Deco Masterpiece
This coastal gem combines engineering with artistry through its distinctive silhouette of graceful arches and decorative flourishes. Designed by Oregon’s bridge maestro Conde McCullough in 1936, it exemplifies his signature blend of utility and beauty.
The bridge’s Art Deco details include sculptural piers and ornamental finials that frame Newport’s bay like a grand portal.
When I first drove across as a teenager, I was so captivated that I immediately turned around to cross it again, much to my family’s amusement.
5. Siuslaw River Bridge: Florence’s Moving Sculpture
What makes this 1936 McCullough creation special is its middle section that actually moves. The double-leaf bascule drawbridge opens like butterfly wings to let tall boats pass through.
When closed, its concrete-tied arches and Art Deco operator houses create a symmetrical work of industrial elegance. The four obelisk-like towers mark each corner of the movable span, turning machinery into architecture.
Florence’s Old Town riverfront offers the best views of this functional sculpture.
6. Cape Creek Bridge: A Roman Aqueduct by the Sea
Tucked along the coastal highway near Heceta Head Lighthouse, this concrete arch viaduct seems transported from ancient Rome. Its tiered arches step gracefully across a forested ravine within earshot of crashing Pacific waves.
Built in 1932, McCullough’s design blends classical architecture with rugged coastal drama. The bridge’s half-circle arches create perfect frames for the lush greenery below.
For a truly magical perspective, walk the beach beneath Heceta Head Lighthouse to see this ‘aqueduct-by-the-sea’ in all its glory.
7. Isaac Lee Patterson Bridge: The Rogue River’s Elegant Crossing
A rhythmic series of open-spandrel arches creates a visual melody across the Rogue River at Gold Beach. Another McCullough masterpiece from 1932, this concrete span flows from riverbank to ocean with sculptural grace.
I’ll never forget watching osprey dive for fish from my perch beside one of the bridge’s arches during a summer road trip. The structure’s streamlined detailing reflects the Art Deco era’s optimism and celebration of motion.
Convenient pullouts on both riverbanks offer perfect photo opportunities of the arches against the Pacific horizon.
8. Astoria-Megler Bridge: The Great Green Dragon
Stretching over four miles across the mighty Columbia River, this steel giant is North America’s longest continuous truss bridge. From a distance, its serpentine green trusswork resembles a dragon skimming the water’s surface.
Built to withstand powerful 150-mph coastal winds, the bridge rises dramatically to its 1,233-foot main span, allowing massive ships passage. The structure connects Oregon to Washington with industrial elegance.
For classic photos, head to Astoria’s riverfront near the Columbia River Maritime Museum.
9. Crooked River High Bridge: Desert Canyon Sculpture
Suspended nearly 300 feet above a sheer basalt gorge, this slender steel arch reads like calligraphy against Central Oregon’s desert cliffs. The 1926 McCullough creation now serves pedestrians only, with newer highway spans nearby.
Walking across delivers a serious case of vertigo as you gaze down at the distant ribbon of water below. The stark contrast between delicate engineering and rugged wilderness creates visual poetry.
Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint offers safely railed perspectives of this dramatic crossing.
10. Goodpasture Covered Bridge: The McKenzie’s Wooden Wonder
Among Oregon’s most photographed covered bridges, this cream-painted wooden passage seems lifted from simpler times. Built in 1938 and spanning 165 feet, it’s the second-longest covered bridge in the state and still carries local traffic.
The timber Howe-truss design features charming ribbon windows and arched portals that reflect beautifully in the McKenzie River’s emerald waters. During my autumn visit last year, golden leaves framed the bridge perfectly, creating a scene worthy of a calendar.
Easy pull-offs along Highway 126 make quick photo stops simple.