This Day Trip Takes You To 5 Of Greater Cleveland's Covered Bridges And It’s Perfect For A Scenic Drive

There’s something so quaint and picturesque about covered bridges in Ohio. These structures have largely gone out of fashion over the years due to road and bridge building, but that only makes them all the more exciting to discover. Here in Northeast Ohio, there are a handful of nearby bridges that are worth exploring — and many Greater Cleveland covered bridges are closer to home than you might think! Get ready for a road trip, because these bridges are begging for a visit. So, whether you’re curious about the history of Ohio’s covered bridges or simply looking up “covered bridges near me,” we think this trip will impress you on many levels.

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Charles A. Harding Memorial Covered Bridge, Main St, Olmsted Falls, OH 44138, USA

Janelle Johnson/Google Images

A popular spot for senior pictures and engagement photos, the lovely Charles A. Harding Memorial Covered Bridge in David Fortier River Park is endlessly charming. It's one of very few covered bridges in Cuyahoga County, and it is surprisingly modern. It was built in the 1990s to honor Captain Charles Harding, who was killed in action during World War II. At 108 feet long, the bridge is beautiful and immediately eye-catching. The sky looks particularly crisp from its bridge deck, especially when surrounded by lovely greenery or rich autumnal hues.

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Walter F Ehrnfelt Covered Bridge, Whitney Rd, Strongsville, OH 44149, USA

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The stunning Walter F. Ehrnfelt Covered Bridge in Strongsville is a surprise to many locals, as it's tucked off the beaten path. This landmark on Whitney Road is surrounded by the greenery of the Cleveland Metroparks, and it was built in 1983 to honor a former Strongsville mayor. In 2021, it was announced that the bridge was not quite structurally sound, necessitating a rebuild. This is good news for locals, as ongoing maintenance ensures that this bridge will be preserved for generations to come. Learn more about some fun things to do in Strongsville, Ohio.

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Everett Road Covered Bridge Parking Lot, 2247 Everett Rd, Peninsula, OH 44264, USA

Tim Evanson/Flickr

Stretching over Furnace Run in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Everett Road Covered Bridge is truly a remnant of a bygone era. Built circa 1877, this stunning truss bridge has been repaired over the years, but is largely accurate to its original design. Its beauty draws from its simplicity, its historic significance, and the fact that local legend still clings to the structure. It's said that it was built in response to a local accident, which ultimately rallied the community and inspired this structure as a preventative measure. Take a look at this fascinating drone perspective of the Everett Road Covered Bridge when you watch the brief YouTube video below:

Maple Highlands Trail Covered Bridge, Burton-Windsor Rd, Middlefield, OH 44062, USA

Debbie Gregory/Google Images

The beautiful Maple Highlands Trail Covered Bridge differs a bit from others on our list, as this one is built for pedestrian traffic. As part of the 20-mile Maple Highlands Trail, this covered bridge adds a quaint element to the Geauga Park District. Stretching through Chardon and Middlefield, the hike offers a glimpse of the landscape that differs a bit from that in the Cleveland Metropolitan area. The bridge is in Middlefield, and it's a popular spot for bikers to stop, take in the local landscape, and snap a photo. Learn more about Middlefield, an enchanting farm town near Cleveland. Then, take a virtual tour of the area when you watch this footage of the Maple Highlands Trail:

Windsor Mills Covered Bridge, 7696 Warner Hollow Rd, Windsor, OH 44099, USA

Jeff T/Google Images

Located in the tiny community of Windsor Township in Ashtabula County, this historic structure stands over Phelps Creek, providing stunning views of the surrounding area. Built in 1867, the bridge is easily recognized, as its vibrant yellow design simply can't be missed. Today, it is one of 17 in the county that is open to traffic. This is thanks in part to extensive renovation in the early 2000s, which has preserved the historic character of the bridge and earned it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Check out more of the picturesque covered bridges in Ashtabula County when you watch the brief YouTube video below:

These Greater Cleveland area covered bridges are a treat to see in any and every season. Did any of these local landmarks surprise you? What other nearby covered bridges in Ohio would you recommend? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Ashtabula County has the most covered bridges in this part of Ohio. If you’re ever in the area during the fall, you have to check out the Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Festival! And don’t forget to check out our ultimate road trip essentials packing list before leaving for your trip.