From Gateway Farm , turn Left onto Highway 226 and travel approximately 4/10's mile to Shimanek Bridge Road, which veers off to the Rright.

(DETOUR SEPT/OCT 2008)

Travel approximately 2 miles west on Shimanek Bridge road until it intersects with Richardson Gap Road.

Turn Left (south) on Richardsons Gap Road and travel across Thomas Creek on Shimanek Bridge.

This is at least the fifth bridge spanning Thomas Creek at this location.  The previous bridge (see photo) which was built in 1927 was unrepairably damaged in the great Columbus Day Storm of 1962 when trees were blown against the structure.

Perhaps the best place to park to examine the structure on foot is at the intersection of Shimanek Bridge Road and Richardson Gap Road. Be advised that locals can get a little grumpy with "flat landers" clogging up the local roads though.