There are a lot of ways to soak up the beauty of fall in New Hampshire. In the summer, head to the lake or the beach. In the winter, consider some skiing. But in the fall, the best way to enjoy the scenery is by getting in the car and heading off on a road trip. We've built out a few of such trips in the past - from waterfalls to donuts to haunted places and just about everything in between. But one of our favorites is this trip to some of the best New Hampshire covered bridges. It can be done in a day, and it's a beautiful way to soak up the scenery. Check out the full route to these covered bridges in New Hampshire.
1. Ashuelot Covered Bridge - Ashuelot
Start things off with one of the most simple, but lovely bridges on the route. The Ashuelot spans the river of the same name and dates back to 1864. We love the look of the white lattice sides during the fall. Something about the contrast of colors will keep you here for longer than you intended! Get an aerial view of the Ashuelot Covered Bridge:
2. Coombs Covered Bridge - Winchester
You'll be sticking to the Ashuelot River for your next stop. Built in 1837, the 107-foot-long Coombs Bridge feels simple. The red roof looks stunning against green trees in the summer. But, of course, we absolutely love it in the fall. If you appreciate state history, you'll like knowing that it's on the National Register of Historic Places.
3. Carleton Bridge - East Swanzey
Sticking to the same bridge, we continue to our third stop, the Carleton Bridge. It crosses the South Branch of the Ashuelot River and is another one that's made its way onto the National Register of Historic Places. It was built in 1869.
4. Hancock-Greenfield Covered Bridge - Hancock
If you're looking for more, head to stop number four! It might look cold, but its quaint charm will warm your soul. Built in 1937 near Hancock, this beauty spans the Contoocook River. It was the first bridge in the country to use the engineering technique known as the Teco truss, Unsurprisingly, it's also on the National Register of Historic Places. Get a closer look at this lovely bridge:
5. Henniker Bridge - Henniker
One of the newest on this list, the Hennicker was built in 1972. But covered bridge traditionalists don't need to worry. The builders used traditional methods. You won't be able to drive through it, but this is exactly when you'll want to stretch your legs anyway. Get out and take a lovely stroll over it to see the Contoocook up close. Get an in-depth look at Henniker Bridge:
6. Albany Bridge - Albany
This portion of the drive will lead you to the Kanc and this bridge is just off the road. It was built in 1858 and looks especially wonderful in the fall when it's surrounded by bright foliage.
7. Groveton Bridge - Northumberland
This is another one that's just for walking. Take some time to walk across and enjoy a snack at the picnic table or benches. It spans the Ammonoosuc River and was built in 1852.
8. Mount Orne Covered Bridge - Lancaster
Perhaps the most geographically unique bridge on this list, the 1911 Mount Orne actually touches two states! It crosses the Connecticut River between Lancaster, New Hampshire, and Lunenberg, Vermont.
9. Bath Covered Bridge - Bath
Crossing the Ammonoosuc River, this beauty was built in 1833. In 2012 it underwent renovation and today you'll find it in great shape! If you want to keep your driving to around 5 hours, this will be your last stop on the trip. But, if you're loving the drive hop back into the car and head to our bonus bridge!
10. Cornish-Windsor Bridge - Cornish
Last up is the Cornish-Windsor Bridge near the western border of the state. It spans the Connecticut River between Cornish and Windsor and at 449 feet, it's the longest wooden covered bridge in America! It was built in 1866 it's owned and maintained by New Hampshire. Congrats! You've now seen some of the best covered bridges in the state in just one (gloriously beautiful!) day.
Have you driven through any of these covered bridges in New Hampshire? Which ones are your favorites? Let us know in the comments. For more wonderful New Hampshire road trips, check out these 10 favorites. They're quick, unique, and varied, offering you tons of options for exploring the Granite State.
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