Spend The Day Exploring These 10 Covered Bridges In New Hampshire
By Michelle|Updated on August 31, 2023(Originally published November 17, 2021)
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Michelle
Author
Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
People come to New Hampshire for a variety of reasons. The ease of living, the natural beauty, and the kind people are just a few of them. For me, it’s the charm of the state that keeps me falling in love with it year after year. And, undoubtedly, a big part of that charm is the quintessential sights that exist in every corner of the state. The New Hampshire covered bridges are the perfect example. Included here are just a few of our favorites, but we recommend searching out as many as you can. Each one is beautiful and different from the rest.
1. Hancock-Greenfield Covered Bridge, Hancock and Greenfield
Hancock-Greenfield Covered Bridge, 290 Forest Rd, Hancock, NH 03449, USA
This bridge was built back in 1937 making it one of the younger ones in the state. It spans the Contoocook River. In addition to being lovely to look at, it also has some interesting history attached to it. This was the first bridge in the USA to use the engineering technique known as the Teco truss. When you're here, be sure to spend some time exploring the town of Hancock. It's lovely, too!
Another relatively young bridge, Henniker was built in 1972. Rather than use new methods, the builders employed traditional methods to construct it which means it fits perfectly on this list with the others. You can't drive through the structure, but it's fun to walk back and forth to get a better view of the Contoocook River beneath it. Since you'll be in Henniker, be sure to visit one of our favorite bookstores.
Built in 1845, the Corbin Covered Bridge allows people to cross the Croydon Brand of the Sugar River. It was the victim of arson in 1993 but was rebuilt better than ever in 1994. You'll find it west of Route 10 on North Newport Road about two miles from Newport Village.
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4. Cornish-Windsor Bridge, Cornish
Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge, Cornish, NH 03745, USA
Located near the western border of New Hampshire the Cornish-Windsor Bridge crosses the Connecticut River linking the towns of Cornish and Windsor. The bridge is 449 feet long, making it not only the longest covered bridge in the state but also in America!
5. Ashuelot Covered Bridge, Winchester
Ashuelot Covered Bridge, 20 Hampshire Ct, Ashuelot, NH 03441, USA
This one doesn't make it onto every list of great covered bridges and that might be exactly why we like it! The structure spans The Ashuelot River and was built back in 1864. While many of the bridges in the state are made of wood, blending into the surrounding scenery, we love that this one is bright and white, contrasting with the trees around it. One of the most unique elements of this bridge is that you can enjoy a special dinner on it one day each year.
Built in 1837, this 107-foot-long bridge also runs over the Ashuelot River. You'll know it by the bright red roof that sits on top. It's also a Winchester historical attraction that's on the National Register of Historic Places.
7. The Dingleton Hill Covered Bridge, Cornish
Dingleton Hill Covered Bridge, 780 Town House Rd, Cornish, NH 03745, USA
This is one bridge that often misses out on the attention the others receive. We love the way it's placed a bit higher above the river compared to some of the other covered bridges. It's about 78 feet long and carries Root Hill Road crossing Mill Brook along the way. While you're here, be sure to spend some time in the town of Cornish.
8. Mount Orne Covered Bridge, Lancaster
Mount Orne Covered Bridge, Lancaster, NH 03584, USA
A fun feature of this wooden bridge over the Connecticut River is that New Hampshire can't completely claim it. One end of the bridge is in Lancaster, New Hampshire while the other is in Lunenburg, Vermont.
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9. Bath Covered Bridge, Bath
Bath Covered Bridge, W Bath Rd, Bath, NH 03740, USA
One of the oldest on this list, the Bath Covered Bridge made its debut in 1833. It crosses the Ammonoosuc River. It was renovated in 2012 which means it's in great shape for exploring.
We love visiting this bridge as much for the drive as to see the attraction. You'll reach it by taking the Kancamagus Highway, which means you might as well enjoy the full 56-mile drive to see the rest of the area. The Albany Bridge, dating back to 1858, is just off the road.
The bridges here are easy to visit one by one, but they also might make a great road trip. If you choose to see them all together, be sure to check out our ultimate road trip packing guide. Of course, even more important are the road trip snacks!
What are some of your favorite covered bridges in New Hampshire? Have you been to any of the ones listed here? If so, we’d love to hear any tips and tricks you have for making a visit fantastic. Nearby restaurants, cafes, and locally owned shops are always high on my list of trip add-ons, so please share your favorites in the comments.
The Blair Bridge, Campton: If you love a good haunting, this bridge is for you. It's considered the most cursed bridge in the state, which means you'll want to visit it as close to Halloween as you can!
Cornish-Windsor Bridge, Cornish: At 449 feet long, this beauty is the longest covered bridge in New Hampshire. And it cost just $9,000 to build back in 1866.
Which hidden gems in New Hampshire should I visit?
You should visit as many hidden gems in New Hampshire as you possibly can. They range from hiking trails to restaurants to unique cultural spots. Here are a few to check out:
Newick's Lobster House, Dover: This family-friendly seafood restaurant has been around for ages and is a beloved part of the culinary world in New Hampshire.
Lake Francis State Park, Pittsburg: Located near the Great North Woods region of the state, this little park is just 38 acres making it one of the smallest in the state.