A Day Along Highway 49 and The Gold Country

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After much rain, we finally got a week-end of some fine weather and decided to take a short drive along Highway 49 and the very scenic South Yuba River Canyon. This day we made two stops, first at the old Highway 49 bridge.

The old Highway 49 bridge (1921) an outstanding example of the concrete Rainbow arch-style construction which was very common in the 1920's. After over 70 years of use, the bridge was closed to automobile traffic in 1993. The old bridge is now used for foot traffic and for viewing the spectacular river canyon, it is a good spot to river-watch and access to the water.

During the summer after the winter rains and the spring snow melt, the turquoise water slows down and turns crystal clear making for a great swimming hole.

Our second stop was at the South Yuba River State Park where the Bridgeport covered bridge, built in 1862, by David I. Wood, is one of only nine remaining in California. At 229 feet in length, is thought to be the longest arch/truss single span covered bridge in the United States.

Bridgeport has been a mining camp, stage stop and working ranch. The South Yuba River was the site of some of the richest placer deposits of gold discovered in California.

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Photos

Old Highway 49 Bridge
Just North of Nevada City, CA

The Great Yuba River
Along Highway 49

Yuba River
Great for swimming, just downstream from the bridge (center of photo) the swim hole is more than 12 ft. deep and crystal clear during the summer.

Historic Covered Bridge
On the Yuba River at Bridgeport, CA

Covered Bridge
South Yuba River State Park

Covered Bridge
A view inside.

Highway 49 Crossing
Foot traffic only.

Bridgeport Bridge
South Yuba River State Park, Bridgeport California.