Bedell Bridge State Historic Site preserves 38 acres of New Hampshire history along the Connecticut River in Grafton County, marking the location of what was once the longest covered bridge in the United States. The original Bedell Bridge, a two-span covered bridge stretching over 390 feet, connected Haverhill, New Hampshire to Newbury, Vermont until it was destroyed by wind in 1979. Today, the site serves as a quiet riverside retreat where history and nature intersect.

The grounds offer a peaceful setting for picnicking, fishing along the Connecticut River, and exploring the remnants and interpretive displays that tell the story of this engineering landmark. Birders will appreciate the riparian habitat, and the site provides river access for kayaking and canoeing — a convenient put-in point for paddling the Connecticut. Walking the grounds, you can still see the stone abutments that once anchored the massive bridge, a tangible connection to 19th-century craftsmanship.

Unlike New Hampshire’s larger state parks, Bedell Bridge draws visitors seeking solitude rather than crowds. There are no developed campgrounds on-site, so plan accordingly if you’re looking to stay overnight — nearby options in the Upper Valley region are plentiful.

The best time to visit is late spring through early fall, when the riverside setting is at its most inviting. Autumn brings spectacular foliage reflecting off the Connecticut River, making it a worthwhile stop on any leaf-peeping route through Grafton County. Come for the history, stay for the quiet beauty of the river valley.

Explore Nearby

• Sayres Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Vermont
• Union Village Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Vermont
• Kancamagus Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in New Hampshire
• White Mountain National Forest — National Forest in New Hampshire, Maine
• White Mountain Trail — Scenic Byway in New Hampshire