Seven Bridges Road is a Real Road Trip Destination

You may have heard the song Seven Bridges Road, made famous by the Eagles. But is the song inspired by a real road? 

If you’re a fan of this song, a trip to Montgomery, Alabama, could bring the lyrics to life. 

There are stars in the southern sky

Southward as you go

There is moonlight and moss in the trees

Down the seven bridges road

Let’s take a virtual drive down this enchanting road!

About the Song Seven Bridges Road

On a full moon evening in 1969, musician Steve Young took a drive with some friends. They stopped along the dirt road, lined with Spanish moss-covered trees.

Young wrote the lyrics during the stop and, not long after, recorded Seven Bridges Road on his album Rock Salt & Nails.

Besides the Eagles, over 20 other musicians have performed and recorded the song. Dolly Parton, Joan Baez, and Billy Strings, a rising star in modern-day bluegrass, have versions of Seven Bridges Road in their repertoires.

The Eagles Version of Seven Bridges Road

The Eagles’ version of the song is known for its beautiful harmonies. Quite different from Young’s original composition with only his voice singing. 

The first recorded harmonized version of the song is on an album produced by Mike Nesmith of The Monkees. Through musical acquaintances in the early 1970s, members of the Eagles heard this version and decided to create their own. 

It started as a warm-up song for the band backstage but soon became an opening song in their set. All five members gathered around a single microphone and thrilled audiences with their harmonizing. 

Beginning in 1974, Seven Bridges Road opened every show before being replaced in 1976 by another Eagles’ classic, Hotel California.

Pro Tip: While exploring Montgomery, music lovers can also Visit Hank Williams’ Grave. Here’s how!

Is Seven Bridges Road a Real Road?

The inspiration for the song came from Woodley Road, which does feature seven formerly covered bridges. It’s also a beloved road to those who grew up in the area. 

In the 1960s and ’70s, teenagers commonly used Woodley Road to cruise with their friends in cars.

YouTube commenter, 1369vmsmith, reminisced, “When my friends and I got our drivers licenses we would party on Seven Bridges (Woodley) Rd…” 

Ever4Zeppelin shares this memory, “I make this drive at least once a month and really miss the covered bridges, but the country is still beautiful. Had a lot of fun back there in the day!”

Where Is the Real Seven Bridges Road? How Do I Get There?

Woodley Road is in the southeast corner of Montgomery, Alabama. Much of it has been developed from the dirt road it once was, but it still offers a lot of charm. 

Trees still line much of the road. While no longer covered, you can easily identify the bridges as you cross over Sandy, Thompson, and Baskins Mill Creeks. 

This Alabama backroad will surely give you a peaceful, easy feeling as you travel it. 

Best Hikes Near Near Seven Bridges Road

Lagoon Park Trail

This 2.4-mile wooded trail is located in northeast Montgomery and is excellent for kids and adults. You’ll forget you’re actually within city limits with views of a lake and serene walking paths. 

Leashed dogs are welcome on the hiking trails. 

Red Trail – Auburn University at Montgomery

Located on the grounds of Auburn University, this 1.9-mile hike is an easy trail for all ages. Dogs on leashes are welcome to join you. 

If you have bikes, this is a nice trail to take them on. 

Best Camping Near Seven Bridges Road

Montgomery South RV Park

Located 16 miles south of downtown Montgomery, this RV park features 30/50-Amp full hookup sites. Most sites are pull-throughs and are suitable for big rigs. 

Just a short drive away is the Alabama Safari Park, a 350-acre drive-through park. You can also walk through parts of the park. The kids will love being able to hand-feed giraffes or other exotic animals. 

Pro Tip: While exploring Montgomery, check out these 7 Best Alabama State Parks for Camping.

Jackson Lake Island

At this campground, you’ll find no lack of enjoyment for the whole family. Goats roam free and can be played with, fed, and petted. Bring your pole for a relaxing day of fishing along the lake. Or just take a leisurely walk along the water. 

50-Amp sites with dump and water are available, as is dry camping for those not needing hookups. Tent campers are also welcome here. 

Reservations are not accepted, but you can call ahead to confirm if sites are available. 

Is a Drive Down Seven Bridges Road Worth It? 

If you’re planning a visit to Alabama, this area of the state is well worth the trip. Besides the song-inspired Woodley Road, there are plenty of places to enjoy the nature that surrounds Montgomery.

Be sure to cue up one of the many versions of Seven Bridges Road to help set the mood for the trip!

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