Wills Creek Bollman Bridge

Wills Creek Bollman Bridge is a railroad bridge in Summit Township near Meyersdale built with a Warren truss design and decorative cast iron elements. It now carries the Great Allegheny Passage trail across Scratch Hill Road, serving cyclists and pedestrians.

Built in 1871 for the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad's Pittsburgh Division, the bridge was relocated in 1910 to its current location near Meyersdale. It represents one of the last examples of Wendel Bollman's bridge designs still standing in the region.

The bridge now serves cyclists and walkers crossing the Great Allegheny Passage trail, functioning as a gathering point where visitors pause to appreciate its industrial heritage. It has become part of the region's identity as a space that blends transportation history with modern recreation.

The bridge crossing is well-maintained and accessible for visitors using the Great Allegheny Passage trail. The structure may experience heavy foot and bike traffic during peak times, so early morning or late afternoon visits tend to offer a quieter experience.

The structure was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978, formally recognizing its historical significance. This designation protected the bridge and eventually led to its restoration and transformation into its current role serving the trail community.

Location: Summit Township

Official opening: 1871

GPS coordinates: 39.81830,-78.99470

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:42