9 Undeniable Reasons To Visit The Longest Covered Bridge Near Cleveland

There's something enchanting about covered bridges. They're a simple and fairly rustic structure, and yet we're helplessly enamored by them. They draw a distinct line between yesteryear and the modern era, and they're both works of art and feats of engineering - an uncovered wooden bridge has a lifespan of about 20 years; however, a covered bridge can last a century or longer.

Unfortunately, the evolution of technology and more affordable metal building materials have turned these lovely structures into mementos of a bygone era, and as a result, communities like Ashtabula County have become world-renowned for their collection of covered bridges. Ashtabula County is home to 19 covered bridges, including two unique bridges that have fascinating claims to fame. If you're not yet sold on taking a road trip to see this nearby county's covered bridges, consider these nine reasons to check out the particularly noteworthy Smolen–Gulf Bridge.

1. The Smolen–Gulf Bridge is the longest covered bridge in the United States…

Stretching across the Ashtabula River is a surprisingly modern creation that's both quaint and fascinating. It was designed under the direction of former Ashtabula County Engineer John Smolen, and it spans an incredible 613 feet in length.

2. ...And it's the fourth-longest covered bridge in the world.

It was also quite spendy to build. When it was completed in 2008, construction costs added up to about $7.78 million.

3. As you drive across it, you’ll be 93 feet above the river and will be treated to some incredible views.

The scenery around the Smolen–Gulf Bridge is truly jaw-dropping, especially in the fall. The Ashtabula River is particularly striking when it’s flowing strongly after a rainstorm and as the snow melts in springtime, but it’s well worth seeing even on a still summer day.

4. The bridge's 30-foot width supports full, legal load traffic, meaning it won't slow down your commute.

You'll be amazed by the strength of this bridge. Though it is largely made of wood, its structure is strong enough to support an impressive amount of traffic despite its length.

5. There's a lot of bridge history in this area.

While Cleveland was once the heart and soul of the transportation industry, this site has accommodated traffic since the Crooked Gulf Covered Bridge was constructed here in 1867. This bridge was later replaced with a steel bridge in 1949, and the modern Smolen–Gulf Bridge shares a history with both of its predecessors, though it is a nod to the older style of artistic engineering.

6. You can also explore the area around this bridge on foot.

This bridge is pedestrian-friendly and the surrounding scenery is breathtaking. The Riverview Covered Pedestrian Bridge was built beneath the Smolen-Gulf Bridge in 2016, and it has attracted visitors ever since. It's located in Indian Trails Park, which offers some of the most spellbinding scenery in the region.

7. After you explore the area, you can dine in the visitor center.

This little landmark is the perfect place to by to learn more about the bridge and its history.

8. Just a few miles away from the Smolen-Gulf Bridge is the West Liberty Covered Bridge, which is coveted as the shortest covered bridge in the United States.

This bridge was also designed by John Smolen, and it has quite a quirky history. The bridge covers a concrete culvert and was built using grant money after public officials realized that fixing the culvert would cost roughly the same amount as installing a covered bridge. Given Ashtabula County’s affinity for covered bridges and the opportunity to increase tourism with this unique feature, the West Liberty Covered Bridge was constructed and opened to traffic on August 22, 2011.

9. The entire road trip from Cleveland is endlessly beautiful.

There's a reason so many visitors are enchanted by the covered bridges of Ashtabula County. The hour-long drive from Cleveland to covered bridge country is endlessly beautiful and you'll fall in love with the landscape of the region.

This lovely covered bridge is one of the most impressive in all of Northeast Ohio. Have you ever paid it a visit?

If you love combining nature and marvels of human construction, you'll love hiking along this waterfall staircase near Cleveland.

Here is a list of places you can visit if you're looking for Cle's undiscovered gems.