Pack up your car and head north to Ohio’s Covered Bridge Capital to explore the 19 area covered bridges!

With 19 historic covered bridges to discover, including the longest one in the United States, Ashtabula County offers a stunning backdrop for a road trip year-round, particularly in the fall. Savor seasonal flavors, witness the vibrant foliage, and breathe in the fragrant aroma of fresh grapes as you drive by vineyards. 

Need a driving map?  You can request a free visitor’s guide at visitashtabulacounty.com or visit the Geneva-on-the-Lake Visitors Bureau office before September 30th to grab a copy of the visitor’s guide and to purchase the brand-new Covered Bridge Trail Passport for just $5. Explore our suggested itineraries below to maximize your experience and uncover new dining, lodging, and entertainment options along the way. 


Have a couple of hours?

We recommend visiting Smolen-Gulf bridge (the longest in North America which spans 93 feet above the Ashtabula River. It’s the only place you’ll find a covered bridge over another covered bridge. Located below, Riverview is a pedestrian covered bridge offering an ideal place for a walk or picnic along the river. Nearby, visit one of our oldest: Olin Bridge, which just celebrated its 150th anniversary. Next, head to Benetka Road Bridge. On your way, be sure to grab an apple cider donut or cider slushie at Brant’s Apple Orchard (open August – November) for your trip home.

Have a day?

Start with the preceding itinerary, then, pick up on the eastern route of the Covered Bridge Trail. Start at Giddings Road. Stop by Wall Street Coffee for a cup of coffee or tea for a pick-me-up. Then, visit Netcher Road in Jefferson and follow it to South Denmark which boasts a beautiful barn quilt. Explore country roads through rural Pierpont Township where you’ll find Caine Road, the first Pratt Truss bridge in Ohio. The Graham Road bridge is only one of two bridges that are not in use.

Then, head north for about four miles towards Root Road. Continue your journey by visiting several bridges along Conneaut Creek (otherwise known as “Steelhead Alley”), including State Road, Middle Road, and Creek Road. This route brings you very near to Lake Erie and Conneaut Township Park, a popular place to enjoy the sunset or hunt for beach glass. Enjoy dinner at Sparky’s Place or Biscotti’s Restaurant. For a glass of wine to celebrate your adventures, visit Buccia Vineyard Winery, which is also a B&B with beautiful vineyard views.

Have a weekend?

Start with the preceding two itineraries. Then, pick up on the western route beginning at Doyle Road bridge. Then, you’ll pass by the shortest bridge in the county, West Liberty. Drop by for a brew at Darkroom Brewing or dinner at Old Mill Winery. Harpersfield Covered bridge is under construction, but the Metropark is open for a short hike. Then, drive through Mechanicsville bridge, believed to be the oldest bridge in Ashtabula County. Visit Riverdale and then you’ll end at the most southern bridge, Windsor Mills. Head north on Route 534 to find yourself in the heart of Ohio Wine Country and choose from dozens of wineries for lunch or dinner.

Tips for Visiting Covered Bridges:

1. Use caution, many of the bridges only allow one-way traffic. 

2. Be aware of the bridges that are on gravel roads (marked with dashed lines on our map) if you are driving a motorcycle or classic car. 

3. Be cautious if you park along the road to get out and look at the bridge. Be respectful of adjacent private property at the bridges. 

4. Purchase the new Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Passport, which comes complete with a sticker sheet, to remember your visit to Ohio’s Covered Bridge capital!