Thomas Creek Bridge

Thomas Creek Bridge is a steel structure that spans a deep valley along Oregon's coastal Highway 101. The bridge connects both sides of the valley using a steel truss framework made up of several large spans.

The bridge was designed and built by engineer Ivan D. Merchant in 1961 using a Warren deck truss system. It was a major project to carry the coastal highway across this deep valley.

The bridge is named after a creek that flows through the valley below, and its steel framework is visible from the highway as you drive along the coast.

You can view the bridge from Highway 101 and stop to photograph it from different angles. There are viewing points nearby where you can see the full structure and the canyon below from various perspectives.

The bridge rises approximately 345 feet (105 meters) above the creek and is one of the highest in Oregon. Its bold design made it possible to connect this previously inaccessible location.

Location: Oregon

Inception: 1961

Official opening: 1961

GPS coordinates: 42.16590,-124.35900

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:03