If you’re looking for a lovely spring ride, a picturesque picnic spot, and a bit of history to boot, why not visit the Copeland Covered Bridge? Located in Edinburg, in the quaint community of Beecher Hollow, this one-lane, 35-foot long bridge has the distinction of being the last remaining covered bridge in Saratoga County.
Situated at 46 North Shore Road (aka County Route 4, the road paralleling the northern rim of Great Sacandaga Lake), the Copeland Historic Site may seem small at first, little more than a roadside pull-off. But there’s something magical about the place, and no matter how long or short your stay, it makes an indelible impression.
The rustic bridge and peaceful setting transport you back in time, offering a nostalgic glimpse of rural life in the 1800s, decades before a grand feat of engineering turned the peaceful Sacandaga River Valley into Great Sacandaga Lake.
The Copeland Covered Bridge was built in 1879 by Arad Copeland, a wheelwright and woodworker who also farmed 35 acres of land across Beecher Creek from his home. For many years, an open bridge enabled the farmer to herd his cows to pasture. But after a fierce springtime snow and ice jam destroyed the footbridge, Arad decided to build a sturdier covered structure. Neighbors pitched in, skillfully laying dry-fitted stone support walls on either side of the creek, hewing timbers, and assembling the wooden frame.
Take a look at the underside of the bridge today, and you can still see the carefully laid stones and bark-covered floor joists. Look up as you cross the bridge, and you’ll notice rustic wooden pegs protruding through the woodwork, effectively anchoring the massive beams. Queen post trusses were used to support the bridge’s roof. Adding to its distinction, the Copeland Covered Bridge is said to be the only covered bridge in New York State with this type of truss design.
For illumination and beauty, Arad graced his bridge with two strategically-placed windows. The upstream window offers a stunning view of Beecher Falls, the series of waterfalls which powered the saw mill and carriage shop owned jointly by Arad and his brother, Leonard. The bridge’s second, downstream window frames a picture-perfect view of the fine red brick home that Arad built for his bride, Anna, circa 1832. The Copelands’ stately homestead still stands today.
Used only for foot traffic, the Copeland Covered Bridge held up well and remained an integral part of the family for 118 years. In 1997, however, Arad’s great-great-grandson, Robert Tyrrell, and his wife, Betty, generously deeded their ancestral bridge to the Edinburg Historical Society, thereby ensuring its vigilant care for generations to come.
Through the combined efforts of the Edinburg Historical Society and the Town of Edinburg, the Copeland Covered Bridge underwent numerous repairs and upgrades in the early 2000s. Rotted floorboards and sideboards were replaced, and an all new metal roof was installed. A lovely viewing platform was built at the far end of the bridge, overlooking a scenic picnic area, Beecher Creek, and the waterfalls.
A wooden boardwalk was also erected upstream from the bridge. Running alongside the creek, it welcomes visitors to a second bench-lined viewing station directly beside the falls. Photo ops abound, so be sure to bring a camera.
The Copeland Covered Bridge was placed on the State and National Registers of Historic Sites in 1998. An informative marker greets you as you pull off North Shore Road and park. At the start of the wooden boardwalk, an illustrated exhibit provides further details about community life in Beecher Hollow during the 18th and 19th centuries.
Without a doubt, the Copeland Covered Bridge is an enchanting destination in any season. But seeing it in springtime, when the falls are thundering with winter snowmelt and the creek is flowing full-throttle, is nothing short of spectacular. So pack a picnic lunch . . . and don’t forget your camera!
Visit the Copeland Covered Bridge at 46 North Shore Road (County Route 4), Edinburg, NY 1213; limited roadside parking available.
