Posted in Maine
February 10, 2021
Hop In The Car And Visit 8 Of Maine’s Covered Bridges In One Day
One of our favorite things to do in Maine is exploring! And while we certainly love the great outdoors, there’s no better way to see the state than by hopping in the car and taking a road trip. We’ve given you quite a few over the years, but this newest trip might be a favorite. Grab some snacks, buckle your seat belt, and take off for a journey to some of the most beautiful covered bridges in New England.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
The first stop on our trip is a beaut! In order to connect Gorham and Windham, this bridge sits over the Presumpscot River. It was built in 1864, but an exact replica was made in 1976 after a fire set intentionally by vandals ruined it in 1973.
Next up is another large and lovely bridge. The Porter-Parsonsfield Bridge was built to connect the two towns of the same name. The bridge spans the Ossipee River and was closed to traffic in 1960 when another bridge was built nearby. The original was restored in 1999.
Built in 1857, the 109-foot Hemlock Bridge beautifully spans the Saco River. It's seen a number of improvements over the years and today it's one of the most lovely and sturdy bridges in the state.
This is one of the most fun bridges on this road trip! An almost perfect replica of the Artist's Covered Bridge nearby, the original bridge is actually the 12th hole of the mini-golf course it's named for.
This one is a local Maine favorite! It gets its official name because it allows for passage over the Sunday River. But it also has an unofficial name! It was named "Artists Bridge" after one artist came here over and over to capture it in painting. Today you're likely to see all sorts of artists, from photographers to painters, trying to portray its beauty.
At this point in the road trip, you might be ready for a nice stretch of the leg. And if you're eager to continue on, this bridge is a good place to do it. It's the shortest of the bunch! The bridge spans the Ellis River and was constructed in 1867.
Built over the Magalloway River in 1898, the Bennett Bridge is a true beauty. While it's now closed to traffic, it once brought Littlehale Road over the river south of Wilsons Mills. We love the fact that during its construction the lumber for the bridge was sent down the river after being sourced in Upton about 25 miles away!
At this point, you might want to take some extra time for dinner and an overnight stay in Rangeley. This is a great idea!
At this point, you might want to take some extra time for dinner and an overnight stay in Rangeley. This is a great idea!
Built over the Piscataquis River in 1857, Lowe's Bridge was washed away by the flood of April 1, 1987. But good news! A modern covered bridge, patterned after the original, was built on the original abutments in 1990.
From here, the drive is long but lovely. You'll be returning to your starting point, but there's no reason to rush. Take your time, add in a few of your own stops and even consider another overnight stay.
From here, the drive is long but lovely. You'll be returning to your starting point, but there's no reason to rush. Take your time, add in a few of your own stops and even consider another overnight stay.
And for full directions for this trip check out this Google Maps link.
What are some of your favorite road trips to take through Maine? Share them with everyone in the comments so we’ve got a way to enjoy the state in a whole new way. The oldest covered bridge in Maine has been around since 1857 and you can see it on this trip!
Address: Hurricane Rd, Gorham, ME 04038, USA
Address: Porter, ME 04068, USA
Address: Hemlock Bridge Rd, Fryeburg, ME 04037, USA
Address: Bethel, ME, USA
Address: Sunday River Rd, Newry, ME, USA
Address: Andover, ME, USA
Address: Lowe's Bridge Rd, Sangerville, ME, USA
