Shimanek Bridge, Covered bridge in Scio, United States.

Shimanek Bridge is a 130-foot covered wooden bridge carrying Richardson Gap Road over Thomas Creek about 2 miles east of Scio. Its Howe truss frame is enclosed by a roof and side panels that keep the timber dry. It is the longest and newest covered bridge in Linn County.

The current 130-foot bridge was completed in 1966, the fifth crossing at this site; the fourth dated to 1927 and the first is thought to go back to 1861. Its predecessor was severely damaged by the Columbus Day Storm of 1962. The structure was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987 as Thomas Creek – Shimanek Covered Bridge.

The bridge displays traditional wooden construction methods that visitors can observe directly while crossing. Walking through it, travelers experience how this building technique shaped rural infrastructure in the region.

Access is located roughly two miles east of Scio along Richardson Gap Road in rural surroundings. The site is open to visit throughout the year and offers good views of the surrounding countryside.

The 1966 bridge is the fifth span at this Thomas Creek crossing: the first is thought to date from 1861, the fourth was built in 1927, and the fourth's successor was wrecked by the Columbus Day Storm of 1962. At 130 feet it is both the longest and the newest covered bridge in Linn County.