Gimlet Pegram Truss Railroad Bridge

The Gimlet Pegram Truss Railroad Bridge is a steel railway crossing in Blaine County that spans the Big Wood River on concrete supports in a single sweep. Its underside displays a distinctive latticed framework structure typical of early 20th-century bridge engineering.

The bridge was originally built in 1894 for service in Ontario, Oregon, then relocated to this site near Ketchum in 1914 to serve the expanding community. This move reflected how infrastructure followed economic growth and new settlement patterns in the Idaho valleys.

The bridge connects the area to its role as a gateway for travelers heading to Sun Valley, a destination that transformed the region's character starting in the 1930s. Visitors walking across can sense how this route shaped the local community's connection to winter sports tourism.

The pedestrian path is easy to navigate, with clear sightlines along the river and surrounding landscape. Better visibility of the structural details occurs during dry weather and daylight hours, making these times ideal for closer inspection.

The bridge was engineered by George H. Pegram and displays a rare lattice design method that survives in only a handful of structures across America. This design feature makes it a valuable example of an engineering approach that faded from common practice.

Location: Idaho

Architects: George H. Pegram

GPS coordinates: 43.59810,-114.34600

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:04