Covered Bridges in Frederick, MD

Are you a history enthusiast or do you simply appreciate the beauty of covered bridges? Look no further than northern Frederick County in Maryland. This picturesque region is home to three historic covered bridges, namely the Utica, Loy’s Station, and Roddy Road bridges. Each bridge is not only visually stunning but also unique in its structural design. In fact, all three bridges feature different truss systems that contribute to their strength and stability. As you embark on this driving tour, keep in mind that the bridges have weight and height restrictions, so proceed with caution. Starting from Frederick City, the tour covers approximately 33 miles roundtrip, taking you through scenic countryside roads. So hop in your car and get ready to explore these charming pieces of architectural history!

Table of Contents

Historic Driving Tour

Northern Frederick County is home to three historic covered bridges: the Utica Bridge, Loy’s Station Bridge, and Roddy Road Bridge. All three bridges are listed on the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places. Besides their beauty, the bridges are also structurally interesting, as each one has a different truss system that keeps them standing.

National Register of Historic Places

Being listed on the National Register of Historic Places signifies the importance and historical significance of these covered bridges. It serves to preserve their cultural and historical value for future generations to appreciate.

Structural Features

The Utica Bridge, Loy’s Station Bridge, and Roddy Road Bridge each exhibit different truss systems, which are the underlying structural elements that provide support to a bridge. Exploring these bridges will not only showcase their architectural beauty but also provide insights into the various truss designs used during their construction.

Driving Tour Directions

To embark on the historic driving tour to explore the covered bridges in Frederick, MD, follow these directions:

Starting Point

The tour begins at the junction of US15 (Catoctin Mountain Highway) and Old Frederick Road.

Utica Bridge

From the starting point, turn right onto Old Frederick Road (east side of US15).
Drive 1.5 miles and make a left onto Utica Road.
Continue on Utica Road until you reach the Utica Covered Bridge.

Loy’s Station Bridge

Return to Old Frederick Road and make a left.
Drive 3.9 miles to a stop sign, just before entering Creagerstown.
At the stop sign, make a left onto MD550.
Drive 0.4 miles and make a right onto Old Frederick Road.
Travel 2 miles and make a left into the parking lot of Loy’s Station Park.
From the parking lot, make a left and go through the bridge.

Roddy Road Bridge

Drive 0.3 miles to a stop sign.
Make a left onto Rocky Ridge Road (MD77).
Drive 2.7 miles on Rocky Ridge Road and make a right onto Apples Church Road in Thurmont.
Continue straight on this road for 1.6 miles until you reach the Roddy Road Bridge.

Getting Home

To return to the starting point, follow these directions:

From the parking lot of the Roddy Road Covered Bridge, make a right onto Roddy Creek Road.
Drive 0.4 miles to a stop sign at the junction of US15.
The ride back to the starting point is approximately 15 miles.

Weight and Height Restrictions

It is important to note that the covered bridges on this driving tour have weight and height restrictions in place. The weight restriction for all three bridges is 30,000 lbs. The Roddy Road Bridge is posted for an 8 foot 6 inch height restriction, while the Utica Bridge is posted for a 9 foot 6 inch height restriction. Loy’s Station Bridge is not posted for height, but caution should still be exercised when viewing these bridges due to their narrow roadways.

Visitor Center

For more information or assistance, visitors can head to the Visitor Center located at 151 S. East Street, Frederick, MD 21701. The Visitor Center can also be contacted at 301-600-4047 or 800-999-3613.

Embark on the historic driving tour of the covered bridges in Frederick, MD, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural and historical heritage of these architectural gems. Discover the unique beauty and structural features of the Utica Bridge, Loy’s Station Bridge, and Roddy Road Bridge while exploring the scenic Northern Frederick County. Enjoy the journey and create lasting memories as you delve into the past and appreciate the significance of these historic covered bridges.