Lewis and Clark River Bridge

The Lewis and Clark River Bridge is a bascule bridge that spans the river with a movable section designed to lift and allow water traffic to pass underneath. The structure is carried by timber piles and supports U.S. Route 101 Business traffic.

The bridge was built in 1924 and replaced an earlier swing-span structure from 1910 that previously crossed at this location. It was designed and constructed under engineer Conde McCullough's direction.

The bridge takes its name from the explorers who traveled through this region, keeping their legacy present in the local geography. This connection to early exploration shapes how people think about the area's past.

Visitors can cross the bridge on foot or by car and watch the opening mechanism in action when boats pass through. It is easily accessible from the highway and offers good views of the river and surrounding area.

This is Oregon's only remaining single-leaf bascule draw span built before World War II. The rare construction style makes it a notable example of bridge engineering techniques from that era.

Location: Clatsop County

Official opening: 1925

GPS coordinates: 46.15229,-123.85937

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:44