There are countless hidden gems throughout Ohio, but one of our state's best kept secrets is just waiting to be discovered—covered bridges. The Covered Bridges Byway in Ashtabula County, (also known as the Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Tour), is an especially beautiful way to enjoy these treasures. In fact, Ashtabula County is known as the "Covered Bridge Capital of the World." Along this unique byway, you can visit 19 covered bridges, including America’s shortest and longest covered bridge. While our short road trip itinerary won't take you to all of the bridges along the tour, we've mapped out a few of the Buckeye State's most interesting bridges for a scenic day trip that you won't soon forget.
Discover 5 Covered Bridges in Ohio on This One-Day Road Trip
1. West Liberty Covered Bridge
Sights & Landmarks⬩Geneva, OH
You'll start your journey at America's shortest covered bridge—the West Liberty Covered Bridge. This structure is only 18 feet long, but it is one of only a handful of drivable covered bridges left in the country. It is also one of the youngest covered bridges in Ohio as the bridge's foundation wasn't even constructed until 2010. This bridge is located on West Liberty Street and takes drivers and pedestrians across Cowles Creek in Geneva.
2. Harpersfield Covered Bridge
Sights & Landmarks⬩Harpersfield, OH
Harpersfield Covered Bridge, which is located in the Greater Cleveland area, used to be the longest covered bridge in America. It was built in 1868, and a steel span was added in 1913 after a flood altered the river. It is one of the most beautiful covered bridges in Ohio as it features a double-span Howe truss design. It is also one of the few drivable bridges in Ohio, and the charming 53-acre Harpersfield Covered Bridge Metropark sits at the northern end of this bridge.
3. Caine Road Bridge
Sights & Landmarks⬩Ohio
The Caine Road Bridge may be one of the Buckeye State's most picturesque covered bridges. It was built in 1986 and is a place that sends you back in time. The Caine Road Bridge takes you across the west branch of the Ashtabula River and is 124 feet long.
4. State Road Covered Bridge
Experiences⬩Ohio
State Road Covered Bridge has so many neat features that you may want to stop and stay for a while. Built in 1983, this Ohio covered bridge crosses Conneaut Creek. It's 152 feet long and known for its unique window that runs along the entire length of the bridge. It's made of pine and oak and was the first covered bridge built by County Engineer John W. Smolen Jr.
5. Smolen-Gulf Covered Bridge
Experiences⬩Ashtabula, OH
The historic Smolen-Gulf Covered Bridge is the last stop on our road trip, and it's one of our favorites. This covered bridge is 613 feet long, stretching State Road across the Ashtabula River. It's both Ohio and America's longest covered bridge, and a must-visit for any covered bridge chasers. We particularly love the views of this bridge during the autumn when fall foliage reaches it peak. The views are extraordinary.
What a beautiful day trip, right? This trip isn't long and you won't travel too far, but the views are incredible. Are there any other covered bridges in Ohio that you would add to this route? Let us know by filling out this nomination form. And visit the Ashtabula County website for specific information about all 19 covered bridges in the area.
Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.
