Ranch Bridge Replacement
2017-2021
Friends of Harriman State Park set a four-year goal to execute the replacement of the Harriman Ranch Bridge across Henry’s Fork of the Snake River. Built in 1921 of local materials sourced on-site, the bridge served as the main entrance into the “Railroad Ranch” for the owners as well as a cattle crossing. After the Ranch was transferred to the State of Idaho, the bridge and dirt road network became part of the park and community trail system. The bridge had few repairs in its lifetime and as a result, was condemned and closed in 2018. FHSP launched “The Ranch Bridge Project” in September 2017 with a goal of completing it in 2021 for the bridge’s Grand Centennial. The last two years involved raising the necessary funds for the project from foundations and private donations, and working with private and IDPR engineers to finalize architectural plans and bid the construction work needed to set the bridge.
The new bridge arrived at Harriman State Park in three sections on October 28, 2020. It was assembled on shore over the next two days while the crane operators spent the following weekend moving three canes on site for the lift and set. On November 2, 2020, the new Ranch Bridge was laid in its final resting place. On June 15, 2021, FHSP and Harriman State Park hosted a dedication and Centennial Celebration rejoicing in this achievement. Thank you to all that were part of the story!
