Oregon City – West Linn Bridge

The Oregon City – West Linn Bridge was once called the “most beautiful bridge in America.”  The 745-foot-long bridge spanning the Willamette River opened in 1922, replacing a wooden suspension bridge built in 1888.  The bridge was designed by Conde McCullough and placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2005.  The bridge affords beautiful views of the Willamette Rivers Falls. Nearby attractions include the historic Willamette River Locks in West Linn and the Museum of the Oregon Territory in Oregon City.

In the early part of the century, the bridge carried Pacific Highway #1, which was part of the larger Pacific Highway that ran from San Diego to Blaine, Washington.  Pacific Highway #1 became U.S. 99 when the U.S. highway system was implemented in 1926.  The bridge is the only bridge in Oregon to be encased in gunite, which protects it from corrosion. The concrete look was favored by bridge designer Conde McCullough, designer of 500 Oregon bridges. His signature detailing is evident in the obelisk pylons with sconced light fixtures, ornate railings and Art Deco piers.

• ADA accessible
• Visitor center nearby