This Iconic Covered Bridge in Ohio is a Perfect Road Trip Detour

When it comes to covered bridges, Ohio is not at the top of the list - that recognition goes to Pennsylvania, with over 200 of these relics. So, it came as a surprise when I discovered that Parke County, Indiana, claims the title of “covered bridge capital of the world,” with 31 in the county. Although Ohioans can’t claim those bragging rights, we can boast about the longest covered bridge in America: the Historic Smolen-Gulf Covered Bridge. Built in 2008, the iconic bridge is worth a road trip detour in Ohio.

True roadtrippers can relate when I say: The best part of the journey isn’t the final destination; it’s the hidden gems we discover along the way. I live for those mom-and-pop shops like Crabill's that serve the best burgers in the Midwest. Or, the quirky museum that triggers some of my fondest childhood memories. As for covered bridges, they’re in a class by themselves. They’re relics, timeless masterpieces that deserve the spotlight to shine. So, on this quick 2-hour day trip from Cleveland, we’ll stop in Ashtabula to appreciate the historical significance of the Smolen-Gulf Covered Bridge.

Fall might be the best time for a road trip through Ashtabula County because the area glows with vibrant hues and has the most covered bridges in Ohio. But I’m excited to jump-start National Road Trip Day (May 23) with this trip to the beach. And I found the cutest little park in Perry, boasting one of the 25 Best Hikes to Beaches in the U.S. 

Our first stop, Lake Erie Bluffs, is the true definition of a hidden gem. With a beach hiking trail, picnic tables, and a multi-deck lookout tower with expansive views of Lake Erie, it’s worth a stop on this trip. Wildflowers sprinkle the Eagle View, Shoreline, Bluff, and Lakeview Loop (the only trail inside the park), and the beautiful beach is so secluded that you’ll have it all to yourself. No swimming is allowed here, but I’d suggest removing your shoes for a stroll along the gorgeous lakeshore. If you want to make a splash, drive to Geneva State Park just 15 miles away. 

Breakwater Beach at Geneva is one of the dreamiest beaches in Ohio. The state park is best known for camping, but it also has hiking, ziplining, kayaking, fishing, boating, and more. I can see myself spending days here, but for this quick trip, a few hours soaking up the rays on the stunning beach is all I need. After some fun in the sun, let’s drive to the village of Geneva-On-The-Lake, which happens to be one of the top warm-weather towns in Ohio and arguably in the country. 

Our first destination in town will be the beloved seasonal gem Eddie's Grill (which opens for the season in early May) for one of the classic cheeseburgers, fries, and an old-fashioned root beer. The iconic 50s-themed restaurant has been a “summer tradition” in Ohio’s oldest tourist town for 75 years, so it’s a must-see on this road trip. Another stop should be Old Mill Winery, about 5 miles south of Eddie’s. The winery is housed inside a historic grist mill built in the 1860s and still has relics and equipment from the mill for visitors to see. It’s another one of those nostalgic places that transports you back to simpler times. Be sure to take a bottle or two of the wine home. 

We could easily spend the day in Geneva-on-the-Lake exploring the shops and attractions in town, but let’s take a detour and head to the Smolen-Gulf Covered Bridge in Ashtabula. After all, that’s part of the reason for this day trip. The good news is? You can drive across the 613-foot bridge that spans the Ashtabula River or hike the Red Horse Trail at Indian Trails Park to get a different perspective of the iconic structure from below and by crossing it on foot. The area is really pretty, and you can take some cool pics of the bridge here.

The best part? A second covered bridge inside the park—the Riverview Covered Pedestrian Bridge—is another hidden gem worth seeing. The 150-foot-long bridge was completed in 2016 and is the last addition to the 19 covered bridges in Ashtabula County. Since the county has the most covered bridges in the state, it is the covered bridge capital of Ohio. 

If you want to stay and explore more bridges in town, I wouldn’t blame you. I’d recommend the shortest covered bridge in America: the West Liberty Covered Bridge. You can also stop by Walnut Beach Park, a sparkling hidden beach in Ashtabula, for more fun in the sun. And if you need a place to stay because (why not make this an overnight adventure?), this waterfront cottage with views of Lake Erie is the perfect base camp after your day of exploration. 

To chase more new and old relics, add this road trip detour in Ohio to see all 19 covered bridges in Ashtabula County. This will be a fun adventure to kick off the beginning of the new season.