Carlton Bridge, a historic covered bridge, spans South Branch Ashuelot River in New Hampshire, in Swanzey County. Built in 1869, it represents the craftsmanship of its era.

Covered bridges like this one were built with roofs and siding not for the comfort of travelers but to protect the load-bearing timber trusses from rain and snow. Without this protection, exposed wooden bridges typically lasted only ten to fifteen years, while covered bridges could stand for a century or more with proper maintenance.

New Hampshire’s covered bridges dot the landscape of the White Mountains region and the Connecticut River valley, each one a reminder of the state’s rural heritage.

Visitors can typically view and photograph the bridge year-round from nearby roads and paths. Fall foliage season provides an especially picturesque setting, when the surrounding hardwood forests frame the weathered timbers in brilliant color. Many covered bridge enthusiasts plan driving tours connecting multiple bridges in a single region, making these structures ideal waypoints for a day of scenic exploration.

Explore Nearby

• Winslow State Park — State Park in New Hampshire
• Willey House Historic Site sits within Crawford Notch State Park — State Park in New Hampshire
• White Mountain Trail — Scenic Byway in New Hampshire
• Kancamagus Scenic Byway — Scenic Byway in New Hampshire
• Lake Minatare Lighthouse — Lighthouse in New Hampshire