New Hampshire is a place where time seems to slow down, especially when you stumble upon one of its many covered bridges. Often nestled in scenic landscapes, these historic structures transport you to a simpler time. With their wooden frames and charming designs, covered bridges have become symbols of New England’s pastoral beauty.
Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a scenic drive, visiting these bridges is a must. Here’s a guide to 12 of the most picturesque covered bridges in New Hampshire, complete with routes and a glimpse into their unique charm.
Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge
The Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge is a true gem. Stretching 449 feet, it’s the longest covered bridge in New Hampshire and the second longest in the United States. Built in 1866, this bridge spans the Connecticut River, connecting Cornish, New Hampshire, with Windsor, Vermont. You’ll feel the bridge’s history beneath your tires as you drive across.
How to Reach: To get there, take NH-12A south from Claremont, then follow signs to the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge. The surrounding scenery is stunning, especially in the fall when the trees burst into color.
Henniker Covered Bridge
Located in the small town of Henniker, this bridge is relatively new compared to others on this list. Built in 1972 by students from nearby New England College, the Henniker Covered Bridge spans the Contoocook River. While it doesn’t have the age of some other bridges, it has plenty of charm and is an excellent spot for a peaceful walk.
How to Reach: To visit the Henniker Covered Bridge, take NH-114 north of the town center. Park nearby and stroll across the bridge while enjoying the serene river views.
Albany Covered Bridge
Deep in the White Mountains, the Albany Covered Bridge offers a picturesque scene from a postcard. Built in 1858, this bridge crosses the Swift River and is a popular stop along the Kancamagus Highway. Combining the river, the forest, and the mountains creates an unforgettable backdrop.
How to Reach: The bridge is accessible by driving east on the Kancamagus Highway from Lincoln. Pull into the designated parking area and walk to the bridge for a closer look. Don’t forget your camera—this spot is a photographer’s dream.
Blair Covered Bridge
The Blair Covered Bridge in Campton is one of the oldest in the state, dating back to 1829. It spans the Pemigewasset River and is still in use today. The bridge’s simple, sturdy design is a testament to the era’s craftsmanship.
How to Reach: To find the Blair Covered Bridge, take I-93 to Exit 27 and follow Blair Road until you reach the bridge. The surrounding area is quiet and peaceful, making it a perfect spot for reflection or a leisurely drive.
Bath-Haverhill Covered Bridge
The Bath-Haverhill Covered Bridge is an iconic New Hampshire landmark. Built in 1829, it spans the Ammonoosuc River and is one of the oldest covered bridges in the state. The bridge’s red exterior and white trim make it stand out, especially against the backdrop of the river and surrounding trees.
How to Reach: You can reach this bridge by taking NH-135 north from Haverhill. As you approach, the sight of the bridge will transport you back to a different time when covered bridges were an essential part of daily life.
Jackson Covered Bridge
Located in the charming town of Jackson, this bridge is also known as the Honeymoon Bridge due to the tradition of couples kissing under it for good luck. Built in 1876, the Jackson Covered Bridge spans the Ellis River and is a gateway to the town’s historic village.
How to Reach: To visit, drive north on NH-16 from Conway. Crossing the bridge into Jackson, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. The bridge is charming in winter when it’s draped in snow or autumn when the leaves turn fiery shades of red and orange.
Meriden Covered Bridge
The Meriden Covered Bridge is a hidden gem in Plainfield. Built in 1880, it crosses Blood’s Brook and is surrounded by peaceful farmland. The bridge’s bright red paint stands out against the lush green of the surrounding fields, making it a perfect spot for photos.
How to Reach: To find the Meriden Covered Bridge, take NH-120 south from Lebanon, then turn onto Main Street in Plainfield. The bridge is just a short drive away, in the tranquil countryside.
Ashuelot Covered Bridge
The Ashuelot Covered Bridge, built in 1864, is one of the most beautiful in New Hampshire. Located in the village of Ashuelot, this bridge spans the Ashuelot River and is known for its distinctive white trusses and latticework. It’s one of the few remaining bridges that still carries vehicular traffic.
How to Reach: To visit, take NH-119 west from Winchester and follow the signs to Ashuelot. The bridge is just off the main road, and there’s a small park nearby where you can sit and admire the view.
Saco River Covered Bridge
The Saco River Covered Bridge in Conway is one of the most photographed bridges in the state. Built in 1890, it spans the Saco River and is still used today. Its white exterior and open sides offer beautiful views of the river below.
How to Reach: To get there, take NH-16 north to Conway and turn onto West Side Road. The bridge is just a short drive from the center of town. The area around the bridge is popular for fishing and picnicking, making it a great place to spend a relaxing afternoon.
Swiftwater Covered Bridge
Nestled in the small town of Bath, the Swiftwater Covered Bridge is a picturesque spot that feels like a step back in time. Built in 1849, it spans the Wild Ammonoosuc River and is known for its classic New England charm. The bridge is surrounded by trees and water, making it a peaceful retreat.
How to Reach: To reach the Swiftwater Covered Bridge, take NH-112 west from North Woodstock and follow the signs to Bath. The bridge is just a short detour from the main road, and the drive itself is scenic, especially in the fall.
Packard Hill Covered Bridge
The Packard Hill Covered Bridge, built in 1991, is one of the newest covered bridges in the state. Despite its age, it retains all the charm of its older counterparts. Located in Lebanon, this bridge crosses the Mascoma River and offers lovely views of the surrounding area.
How to Reach: To find the Packard Hill Covered Bridge, take I-89 to Exit 17 and follow NH-4 west into Lebanon. The bridge is just a short drive from the highway, and there are several pull-offs where you can stop and enjoy the view.
Cresson Covered Bridge
The Cresson Covered Bridge, located in Swanzey, is one of the last remaining covered bridges in the area. Built in 1859, this bridge spans the Ashuelot River and is surrounded by peaceful woodland. The bridge’s red paint and unique design stand out among New Hampshire’s covered bridges.
How to Reach: Take NH-32 south from Keene and turn onto Cresson Bridge Road to visit. The bridge is just a short distance down the road, hidden among the trees. The quiet surroundings make it a perfect peaceful walk or solitude spot.
Exploring New Hampshire’s Covered Bridges
Each covered bridge has its unique charm, from the oldest to the newest, and all are worth visiting. As you drive from one to the next, you’ll be treated to some of the most beautiful scenery New Hampshire has to offer. Whether you’re taking in the fall foliage, the winter snow, or the spring blossoms, these bridges provide a perfect backdrop for your journey.
Plan your route ahead of time to make the most of your trip, and don’t forget to bring a camera. Many of these bridges are in rural areas, so it’s a good idea to pack a picnic and enjoy the natural surroundings. As you explore, please take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship that went into building these bridges and the history they represent.
New Hampshire’s covered bridges are more than just functional structures; they are pieces of living history that connect us to the past. Each one tells a story about the people who built it and the generations who have crossed it. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these bridges is worth taking.