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One Of The Best Historic Stone Arch Bridges In The Entire Country Is Right Here In New Hampshire

The Cheshire Railroad Stone Arch Bridge in Keene, New Hampshire, is a historic and scenic multi-use trail bridge.

Published Jan 27, 2021

Written by 

Michelle Starin

There are plenty of beautiful bridges in New England and we think some of the best are in New Hampshire, as well as some incredible National Historic Sites. While we love a good covered bridge in New Hampshire, there are plenty of other examples that offer a combination of great views and history. This beauty, located in Keene, is a great example!

If you're not looking for it, you might not know that one of the most incredible bridges in the country exists in Cheshire County and it's also a part of the National Park System.

Aerial view of a stone bridge over a river, surrounded by lush green trees and misty hills in the background.
Gabe Shakour / Google

Built in 1847 with the purpose of carrying the Cheshire Railroad, the bridge allowed the railroad to go the additional 42.8. miles from the border of Massachusetts to the Vermont border.

A stone arch bridge surrounded by lush greenery and trees, with a clear blue sky above.
Oliva Meek / Google

When construction was complete, the arch of the bridge allowed Keene to finally have access to goods brought by train from the south.

A serene river flows through a vibrant autumn landscape with colorful trees and a distant house.
Nathalia Schiabel / Google

Today it's considered one of the best examples of pre-1850 stone bridge construction in all of America!

A person sits on a stone wall, surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage in a serene outdoor setting.
Nathalia Schiabel / Google

We love the history here, but even more than that we love how easy it is to explore this piece of history.

A stone bridge partially obscured by trees, with a river flowing beneath and fallen leaves on the ground.
Beach Bum / Google

The bridge has been turned into a multi-use trail as part of a beautiful rail trail system. And the views from the top simply can't be beat.

A gravel path leads through lush green trees under a clear blue sky, inviting exploration in a serene natural setting.
Morgan Baker / Google

It's open throughout the year and each season offers a different type of New Hampshire view.

A stone arch bridge spans a river, surrounded by trees and a snowy bank under a cloudy sky.
NH Adventurer / Google

Visit in the fall to experience the best of the state's foliage. The spring and summer brings bright greens and in the winter the entire surroundings become still and white with snow.

We love taking some time on a weekend to visit and we think you will too!

The Cheshire Railroad Stone Arch Bridge can be viewed any time of year. As with any bridge, be careful if you choose to explore it and always make sure you have sure footing. You can learn more about it by checking out the National Park Service. And let us know if there are other members of the National Parks System in New Hampshire that we should check out next!

Want to explore more of the state's bridges? This day trip takes you to 9 of New Hampshire's covered bridges and it's perfect for a scenic drive.

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