This Little-Known Historic Covered Bridge Is Tucked Away In Arizona
Tucked away in the White Mountains of Arizona lies a charming piece of history that most travelers never even know exists. The Pinedale Covered Bridge, officially named the Mauretta B.
Thomas Pinedale Memorial Bridge, stands as Arizona’s only covered bridge open to vehicular traffic. Built in 1976 to celebrate America’s Bicentennial, this delightful landmark offers a rare glimpse into architectural traditions typically found in New England, making it a true hidden gem worth discovering.
Surrounded by pine forests and rolling hills, the bridge feels like a step back in time, inviting visitors to pause and take in its rustic charm.
Its sturdy timber construction and classic design make for a perfect photo opportunity, especially in the golden light of sunrise or sunset.
For those seeking a peaceful detour from the highways, driving across the Pinedale Covered Bridge is a simple yet memorable way to experience Arizona’s unexpected historic treasures.
Arizona’s Only Covered Bridge Open To Traffic
Driving through the Pinedale Covered Bridge felt like stepping into a different world entirely. Most people associate covered bridges with Vermont or Pennsylvania, but here I was, cruising through one in the heart of Arizona’s high country.
The wooden structure creaked slightly under my tires, adding to the authentic experience.
What makes this bridge truly special is its distinction as the only covered bridge in the entire state that you can actually drive through. Standing at the entrance, I noticed the 9-foot clearance sign—a reminder that larger vehicles need to take the bypass.
The red-painted exterior contrasted beautifully against the surrounding pine trees.
I parked nearby and walked back to explore the bridge on foot. The interior revealed weathered wooden beams and planks that have withstood decades of use.
Sunlight filtered through gaps in the boards, creating interesting patterns on the ground below.
Local residents told me the bridge still serves its original purpose, connecting the small community daily. It’s not just a tourist attraction but a functioning piece of infrastructure that residents genuinely rely on for their daily commutes.
A Bicentennial Gift To The Community
Construction crews completed this remarkable bridge in 1976, perfectly timed to coincide with America’s 200th birthday celebration. Walking around the structure, I could sense the pride that went into creating something meaningful for such an important milestone.
The community wanted a lasting monument, and they certainly achieved that goal.
Unlike many covered bridges built in the 1800s, this one represents a more recent tradition of craftsmanship.
The builders deliberately chose a covered design to honor historical bridge-building techniques while creating something functional for modern times. That blend of old and new fascinated me as I examined the construction details.
During my visit, I met a longtime Pinedale resident who remembered the bridge’s dedication ceremony. She shared stories about the celebration, complete with community gatherings and festivities that brought everyone together.
Her eyes lit up recalling how excited everyone felt to have such a distinctive landmark.
The bridge has weathered nearly five decades of Arizona seasons, from scorching summers to snowy winters. Its endurance speaks to the quality of construction and the community’s commitment to maintaining this special piece of their heritage.
Named For A Beloved Community Member
Mauretta B. Thomas’s name graces this bridge as a tribute to her contributions to the Pinedale community.
Though I never had the chance to meet her personally, speaking with local residents painted a vivid picture of her impact.
She clearly meant something special to the people who called this small town home.
Memorial bridges carry weight beyond their physical structure-they represent living memories of individuals who shaped their communities. Standing beneath the covered span, I reflected on how meaningful it must be for families and friends to cross this bridge daily.
Every trip through becomes a small reminder of someone cherished.
The official designation appears on a plaque near the bridge entrance. I paused to read it carefully, appreciating how the community chose to honor one of their own.
Such personal touches transform ordinary infrastructure into something deeply meaningful.
Communities across America name landmarks after notable figures, but smaller towns like Pinedale create particularly intimate connections. Everyone seems to know the story behind the name.
During my conversations with locals, Mauretta’s legacy came up naturally, woven into the fabric of everyday life in this mountain community.
Spanning Pinedale Wash In The White Mountains
Pinedale Wash flows beneath the bridge, though during my summer visit, only a trickle of water wound through the rocky bed. Seasonal variations dramatically change the landscape here-winter snowmelt and monsoon rains can transform this peaceful wash into a rushing waterway.
The bridge sits ready to handle whatever nature delivers.
Perched at approximately 6,500 feet elevation, the location offers cooler temperatures than Phoenix’s scorching valleys. I immediately noticed the crisp mountain air and the scent of ponderosa pines surrounding the area.
The White Mountains provide a stunning backdrop that changes with the seasons.
One visitor I chatted with had photographed the bridge during a February snowstorm. She showed me images on her phone-the red bridge framed by pristine white snow looked absolutely magical.
I made a mental note to return during winter for that experience.
The wash itself serves an important drainage function for the area. During my exploration, I climbed down to examine the bridge supports and foundation.
The engineering impressed me, built to withstand decades of seasonal flooding while maintaining the charming covered design above.
Easy Access Just Off Highway 260
Finding the bridge couldn’t have been simpler-just a quick turn onto Pinedale Road from Arizona State Route 260.
The detour took maybe two minutes, making it an easy stop for anyone traveling between Show Low and Heber-Overgaard. I appreciated not having to navigate complicated backroads or vague directions.
Clear signage marks the turnoff, though I almost missed it while admiring the mountain scenery.
Once on Pinedale Road, the bridge appears quickly, greeting visitors at the entrance to the small community. GPS coordinates work perfectly if you’re using navigation apps.
Located roughly 11 miles west of Pinetop, the bridge sits in a convenient spot for exploring Arizona’s high country.
During my road trip through the White Mountains, I planned several stops, and this one required the least effort. No hiking boots or special equipment needed-just pull off the highway and enjoy.
The accessibility makes this bridge perfect for travelers with mobility concerns or families with young children.
Everyone can experience this piece of Arizona history without strenuous activity. I watched an elderly couple pull up, snap some photos, and drive through-all within ten minutes of leaving the main highway.
A Photographer’s Dream Destination
My camera practically leaped out of my bag when I first spotted this photogenic structure. The combination of rustic wood, mountain backdrop, and distinctive architecture creates countless composition opportunities.
I spent over an hour experimenting with different angles and lighting conditions.
Early morning light produces particularly stunning results, with the sun illuminating the bridge’s red exterior against shadowy pine forests. Other photographers I encountered shared tips about golden hour shots and seasonal variations.
The bridge photographs beautifully in every season, from autumn colors to winter snow.
Inside the bridge, dramatic shadows and light beams streaming through gaps create artistic opportunities. I positioned myself at various points along the covered span, capturing the geometric patterns of wooden beams overhead.
The texture of weathered wood adds character to close-up shots.
Social media has helped spread word about this hidden gem, with photographers sharing their Pinedale bridge images online.
During my visit, I noticed several people setting up tripods for serious photography work. The bridge’s uniqueness in Arizona makes these images stand out—most viewers expect covered bridges in completely different settings.
Gateway To Historic Pinedale Community
Beyond the bridge lies the tiny community of Pinedale, where history runs deep through every corner. First settled permanently in 1879, this area has witnessed generations of mountain living.
Driving through the bridge felt like crossing a threshold into the past, where life moves at a gentler pace.
The town maintains its historical character remarkably well. Small cabins and older buildings dot the landscape, many dating back decades.
Residents take pride in preserving their heritage, evident in how they’ve maintained the bridge and other historical features.
Each summer, Pinedale hosts the Chuck Wagon Festival, celebrating traditional cooking methods and frontier life. I unfortunately missed the event during my visit, but locals enthusiastically described the festivities.
They cook over open fires using authentic techniques, bringing history to life for attendees.
Walking around Pinedale after crossing the bridge, I appreciated the peaceful atmosphere. No strip malls or chain restaurants interrupt the mountain community vibe.
Just genuine folks living in a beautiful setting, connected to their past through landmarks like this special bridge that welcomes everyone who visits their small slice of Arizona.
A Year-Round Destination Worth Visiting
Each season transforms the Pinedale Covered Bridge into something completely different. Summer brings warm days perfect for leisurely exploration, with wildflowers dotting the surrounding landscape.
I visited in July and enjoyed comfortable temperatures that made Phoenix’s heat seem like a distant memory.
Winter visitors encounter an entirely different experience, with snow blanketing the bridge and surrounding pines. Several people showed me their winter photographs, and the transformation looked absolutely enchanting.
The red bridge against white snow creates picture-perfect contrast that belongs on postcards.
Spring awakens the area with rushing water in Pinedale Wash and fresh green growth everywhere.
Fall brings golden aspens and crisp mountain air that makes driving through the bridge especially refreshing. No matter when you visit, something special awaits.
I recommend checking road conditions before winter visits, as snow can make travel challenging. The bridge itself remains open year-round, serving the community regardless of weather.
Local residents assured me they cross it during snowstorms without issue, though visitors should exercise appropriate caution and respect the 9-foot clearance limit for taller vehicles.