🌤 Weather at Union Covered Bridge State Historic Site by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 33–74 °F | 64–88 °F | 34–79 °F | 19–41 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Long Branch Reservoir, 10 mi away, elevation 820 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Missouri History — The only surviving Burr arch truss covered bridge in Missouri — built in 1871, spanning 120 feet across Elk Fork of the Salt River. This design was invented by Theodore Burr in 1804.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Missouri |
| Entry Fee | Free admission! |
About Union Covered Bridge
Union Covered Bridge State Historic Site in Monroe County preserves Missouri’s only surviving Burr arch truss covered bridge — built in 1871 over the Elk Fork of the Salt River. The Burr arch truss, combining an arch with kingpost truss, was one of the most elegant engineering solutions of 19th-century bridge building. At 125 feet, this is one of the longest surviving Burr arch bridges west of the Mississippi.
Things to Do
Photographing the 1871 Burr arch covered bridge (Missouri’s only surviving example), studying 19th-century timber engineering, picnicking, fishing in the Elk Fork, and visiting a vanishing piece of rural Americana.
Visiting Today
Missouri’s only surviving Burr arch truss covered bridge spans the Elk Fork of the Salt River in rural Monroe County. The 125-foot bridge, built in 1871, is a National Historic Landmark. Fishing in the creek and picnicking available. Located near the Mark Twain Birthplace site for a combined northeast Missouri day trip.
Getting There
Located near Paris in Monroe County via Highway 24 and county roads. The 1871 Burr arch truss bridge is a National Historic Landmark — one of only a handful of surviving examples of this construction type. Best photographed in afternoon light. Mark Twain Birthplace State Historic Site is 30 miles southwest for a combined trip.
Insider Tips
Burr arch design: Union Covered Bridge (1871) is Missouri’s only surviving Burr arch truss bridge — a design that combines an arch with a truss for extra strength. Pro tip: The Burr arch design was patented in 1817 — it could span longer distances than simple trusses. Monroe County: The bridge crosses the Elk Fork of the Salt River — once a major salt-producing area that attracted early Missouri settlers.
Best Time to Visit
Fall: Covered bridge and autumn creek — quintessential Missouri. Spring: High water and green surroundings. Summer: Creek wading and photography. Winter: Snowy bridge scenes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Burr arch truss?
The Burr arch truss (patented by Theodore Burr, 1817) combines a semicircular arch with a kingpost truss — the arch carries compression loads while the truss handles tension. This hybrid design could span 200+ feet — longer than most other wooden bridge designs. The combination of arch and truss made these bridges remarkably strong and durable. Union Covered Bridge is Missouri’s only surviving example.
More parks nearby: Long Branch State Park is a short drive away, while Gen. John J. Pershing Boyhood Home State Historic Site lies within about an hour’s drive.
Wildlife & Nature
Union Covered Bridge SHS — preserves the only remaining Burr-arch covered bridge in Missouri (built 1871). The bridge spans 125 feet over Elk Fork of the Salt River. Kingfishers dive from the bridge. Barn swallows nest in the rafters.
Nearby Attractions
Paris — 5 miles south. Mark Twain Lake — 15 miles west. Hannibal — 30 miles east.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Union Covered Bridge State Historic Site
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Responsible pet owners and their pets are welcome in Missouri state parks and historic sites, with pets leashed and under control.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash not longer than 10 feet required at all times; portable fences and shock collars do not satisfy the requirement.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are not allowed in public swimming areas or on beaches.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- The 'Cabins for Canines' program opens about 30% of lodging units to dogs (max two dogs per unit) at roughly 15 participating parks including Lake of the Ozarks, Bennett Spring, Echo Bluff and Roaring River; per-dog per-night fee varies by unit type.
- Pet fees statewide rule
- No day-use pet fee; Cabins for Canines charges a per-dog, per-night lodging fee (varies by unit).
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Maximum two dogs per campsite; pets not allowed inside any park building.
Are dogs allowed at Union Covered Bridge State Historic Site?
Responsible pet owners and their pets are welcome in Missouri state parks and historic sites, with pets leashed and under control. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via mostateparks.com. More: Missouri state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Union Covered Bridge State Historic Site
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
