Ashtabula County, Ohio, is a hidden gem for lovers of covered bridges. This corner of Northeast Ohio boasts nearly 20 covered bridges, including the nation’s longest. The county covers 26 miles along the Lake Erie shoreline, making for a unique, picturesque, and historic road trip.
The past and present collide as you pass through these colorful crossings set against Ohio’s rolling hills and many vineyards. The covered bridges, made almost entirely of wood, are each unique. Today, they’re a popular tourist destination and a reminder of the county’s rich history.
Covered bridges offer a glimpse into a bygone era you won’t find in many locations today – especially at this scale. In the 19th century, covered bridges in the east were standard, but as road construction methods improved, they became rarer. Most were removed as they fell into disrepair, making Ashtabula’s many covered bridges a stunning find.
In Ashtabula, the oldest covered bridges date to 1867, but most are much newer; one was even built in 2016. A few have unique standing or other notable features. Here are a few that I found:
Ashtabula County Covered Bridges
The Smolen-Gulf Bridge
The Smolen-Gulf Bridge, at 613 feet, is the longest covered bridge in the United States. It spans the Ashtabula River, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Constructed in 2008, the bridge stands 93 feet above the river. The Smolen-Gulf Covered Bridge’s design reflects history while using some modern techniques and materials. It has a life expectancy of 100 years, but if history proves true, it could last much longer. Find it in Plymouth Township.
Doyle Road Bridge
This 94 ft. long lattice bridge was built in 1868. The Doyle Bridge spans Mill Creek and was renovated in 1987 when a laminated arch was added. Find it at 1300 Doyle Rd., Jefferson.
Mechanicsville Bridge
Builders initially constructed this bridge in 1867 and renovated it in 2003. At 156 feet, the Mechanicsville Bridge is the longest single-span covered bridge in Ashtabula County. It’s also a good place to stop for lunch. The Grand River Manor Bar & Grill is directly across the street. Find it at 1153 Mechanicsville Rd., Geneva.
The Middle Bridge
Middle Road Bridge is a covered bridge spanning Conneaut Creek. It’s a single-span Howe truss design built in 1868 and reconstructed in 1984. Find it at 910 Middle Rd., Conneaut.
State Bridge
State Road Bridge, erected in 1983, is a covered bridge spanning Conneaut Creek in Monroe Township. The 152-foot town lattice span includes a four-foot-tall window extending the length of the bridge. Find it at 5899 State Rd., Kingsville.
Creek Road Bridge
The construction of this 125-foot Town lattice bridge is unknown. It sits 25 feet above the Conneaut Creek and was extensively renovated in 1994. Find it at 371 Creek Rd., Conneaut.
Olin’s Bridge
Builders erected this 115-foot-long covered bridge in 1873 and named it after the Olin family, who owned the property next to it. Find this bridge hidden down a deep embankment in a quiet wooded area.
Riverview Pedestrian Bridge
This is the only covered bridge in Ashtabula County that is under another covered bridge. You’ll find the 2016 Riverview Bridge under Smolen-Gulf.
Benetka Road Bridge
The Benetka Bridge spans 138 feet across the Ashtabula River. Builders erected it circa 1900 and renovated it in 1985. Find it at 4500 Benetka Rd., Ashtabula.
Netcher Road Bridge
Architects built this 110-foot-long covered bridge in 1998, making it one of the newest covered bridges in the county. Find it in Jefferson Township.
Ashtabula County Wineries, Breweries and Distilleries
Over two dozen regional wineries are among these rolling hills in the Grand River Valley. These wineries grow 50% of Ohio’s grapes and feature various wines. You’ll spot many wineries where you can stop for a glass or a bottle as you drive along the two-lane roads looking for bridges. In the summer, you can spot them by the lush vineyards lining the sides of many roads.
While there are a lot of wineries, there is also something for us beer and spirits drinkers.
- Debonné Vineyards also has a microbrewery: Double Wing Brewing Company.
- Cloven Hoof has a nano-brewery in Ashtabula Harbor.
- Sparky’s Place in Conneaut has a vast selection of local draft and bottled beer.
- Red Eagle Distillery is in a red barn from the 1800s, making Bourbon, rye, brandy and vodka.
Other things to do in Ashtabula County
In addition to the covered bridges and wineries, Ashtabula County also offers a variety of other attractions, including:
- Conneaut Harbor State Park: A scenic park on the shores of Lake Erie with beaches, hiking trails, and a historic lighthouse.
- Geneva-on-the-Lake: A charming village on the shores of Lake Erie with a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
- Ashtabula Maritime and History Center: A museum that tells the story of Ashtabula’s maritime and industrial heritage.
- Mill Creek Park: A park with hiking trails, a fishing pond, and a playground.
If you Visit Ashtabula County Covered Bridges
The Annual Covered Bridge Festival occurs each year during the second week in October when the leaves are putting on a colorful show. However, a visit in winter with snow and icy water is sparkling, too. If you visit in summer, there are many beaches along the waterfront. Regardless, If you’re looking for a place to discover the history and beauty of covered bridges, you’ll find plenty along this rolling, historic countryside. Learn more at the Ashtabula County Visitor’s Bureau.
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