Historic Wawona Covered Bridge

The Wawona Covered Bridge spans the South Fork Merced River on a wooden span built by Galen Clark in 1857, back when it carried the main stagecoach road between Wawona and Yosemite Valley. It's one of only twelve covered bridges left standing in California, and after decades of repairs it's still open for anyone to walk through. The bridge sits at the edge of the Pioneer Yosemite History Center, a small collection of relocated historic cabins and buildings that give the area a genuine pioneer-town feel.

What's here

Cross the bridge on foot and you're in a cluster of 19th-century structures — cabins, wagons, and outbuildings you can peer into or walk around. A horse corral behind the buildings offers seasonal trail rides, and the creek below the bridge is a popular spot for photos or a quiet break. Picnic tables are scattered around the grounds, and a gas station, general store, and gift shop sit across the street with ample parking.

Good to know

• Rating: 4.7 stars from 40 visitor reviews
• Access: open 24 hours, every day
• Time needed: most visitors spend 30 minutes to an hour exploring the bridge and surrounding buildings