Covered bridges are treasured reminders of America’s 19th-century ingenuity—blending function, charm, and craftsmanship. While only about 750 remain across the country today, New Hampshire is home to 54 of these historic gems. Each bridge offers a glimpse into the past, and together they form a scenic trail of stories waiting to be explored. Read on to discover some of the top covered bridges near our New Hampshire inn—you won’t want to miss these picturesque landmarks.
#1 & #2 Belmont Covered Bridges
Located just 30 minutes from Top of the Ridge Farm, Belmont boasts two unique covered bridges. Remarkably, these bridges were constructed using sections of a former pedestrian bridge from Dover, which was sold for just $1. In 2015, pieces of this historic bridge were repurposed to create crossings over the Tioga River. The Slippery Rock Crossing bridge, situated in downtown Belmont, represents one-third of the original covered pedestrian bridge that once spanned the Cocheco River in Dover.
#3 Tannery Hill Bridge
Also just a 30-minute drive from Top of the Ridge Farm, Tannery Hill Bridge is a charming footbridge that spans a deep gorge and Gunstock Brook, connecting the village to the town offices, police, and fire stations. The bridge is located near Gilford Fire & Rescue and is best accessed by turning off Cherry Valley Road onto Valley Road, passing the Gilford Police Department and Town Hall buildings. Tannery Hill Bridge is straight ahead, adjacent to the Gilford Fire & Rescue building. Set in a scenic area, the bridge is surrounded by picnic tables in a small grove, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely meal. The bridge spans 43 feet, with an overall length of 49 feet. Built in 1995 by the Gilford Rotary Club, Tannery Hill Bridge replaced an earlier bridge that had been removed decades before.
#4 Whittier Bridge
Approximately 55 minutes away, Whittier Bridge invites visitors to step back in time and admire its craftsmanship. This bridge originally carried an old alignment of New Hampshire Route 25 (now Nudd Road and Old Covered Bridge Road) over the Bearcamp River. Built in 1870, it is a rare example of the Paddleford truss design. In recognition of its historical significance, the bridge was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984. It was closed to vehicular traffic in 1989 and removed from its footings for restoration in 2008. As of September 2019, the bridge rested on Nudd Road adjacent to its original crossing point. It was finally placed back on its abutments in late fall of 2022.
#5 Squam River Bridge
Located 58 minutes away, Squam River Bridge offers a tranquil spot for reflection and appreciation of New Hampshire’s natural beauty. A modern marvel, the Squam Covered Bridge marks the transition from Little Squam Lake to the Squam River. Spanning 61 feet, this single-lane bridge features a covered pedestrian walkway on one side and boasts a Town lattice truss design. Completed in 1990 by Milton Graton and Sons, it is too new to be listed as a historic place but carries its own charm and significance. With a capacity of ten tons, the bridge easily accommodates vehicles.
#6 Durgin Bridge
A scenic drive of 62 minutes leads to Durgin Bridge, where visitors can soak in the ambiance of this historic structure. This single-span structure, built in 1869 by Jacob Berry, is 110 feet long and 19 feet wide, with a 96-foot span over the river. Originally 16 feet wide, the roadway was reduced to 14 feet in 1966 with the addition of laminated arches for added strength. Resting on concrete-faced stone abutments and covered by a metal gabled roof, it replaced bridges lost to floods in 1844, 1855, and 1869. Berry, employing Peter Paddleford’s truss design, raised the bridge by 10 feet and removed the central pier. The bridge, reinforced in 1968-69 to support heavy vehicles, is the only surviving 19th-century covered bridge in Sandwich.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many covered bridges are in New Hampshire? New Hampshire is home to 54 covered bridges, each with its own unique history and charm.
- Does Vermont or New Hampshire have more covered bridges? Vermont takes the lead, with around 104 covered bridges, giving it the highest concentration in the country. One of the most iconic, the Cornish-Windsor Bridge, is uniquely shared between Vermont and New Hampshire.
- What is the most photographed covered bridge in New Hampshire? The most photographed covered bridge in New Hampshire is the Cornish-Windsor Bridge. Spanning the Connecticut River, it connects the towns of Cornish, New Hampshire, and Windsor, Vermont. This bridge is the longest wooden covered bridge in the United States and a favorite spot for photographers. Just a scenic two-hour drive from Top of the Ridge, it’s a perfect destination for a memorable day trip filled with history, charm, and photo-worthy views.
- What is the smallest covered bridge in New Hampshire? The smallest covered bridge in New Hampshire is the Prentiss / Drewsville Bridge. Located in Langdon, it measures just 35 feet in length but packs a lot of charm and history into its small structure.
- What is the longest covered bridge in New Hampshire? The Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge is the longest, with an overall length of 460 feet.
- What can you do at the bridges? Besides capturing stunning photos, many of these charming bridges are located in scenic spots with nearby trails. Plan a hike and bring your pups along for the adventure. Before you head out, be sure to research each bridge to learn about its unique features and any trail rules.
Plan Your Visit Today!
While exploring covered bridges in NH, make Top of the Ridge Farm your base for relaxation and rejuvenation. Nestled in a serene countryside setting, our farm offers cozy accommodations and a warm welcome. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, experience comfort, hospitality, and the beauty of nature at Top of the Ridge Farm.
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