There’s something uniquely magical about covered bridges, and Canada is home to many of these beautiful structures. Acting as links to our past and providing perfect backdrops for that perfect Instagram photo, these covered bridges capture the heart of Canadian heritage and beauty. From New Brunswick’s engineering marvels to Quebec’s romantic hideaways, each bridge has its own charm. Let’s take a road trip together and discover the 10 must-see covered bridges in Canada.
1. Hartland Covered Bridge – New Brunswick
This is the longest covered bridge in the world.
Interestingly, New Brunswick holds a special title as Atlantic Canada’s Covered Bridge Capital. Out of 131 wooden bridges across the nation, New Brunswick is home to 58, which is nearly half of the covered bridges in Canada.
Established in the heart of New Brunswick’s potato farmland, in Hartland’s downtown area, you’ll discover the world’s longest covered bridge. Spanning 1,282 feet, this iconic bridge, built in 1901, is an awesome sight worth seeing. Before its construction, crossing the Saint John River was only possible via a ferry service.
Unfortunately, the original structure suffered some damage due to an ice jam. However, the resilient Hartland bridge was renovated and reopened as a covered bridge in 1922. Providing a separate, sheltered pedestrian path makes this bridge even more fascinating.
To get the best and most captivating views of this bridge, go to Hartland’s downtown region.
The Hartland Covered Bridge is not just a functional structure but also a recognized National and Provincial Historic Site.
As a testament to its cultural significance, the bridge’s 111th anniversary was commemorated with a unique Google Doodle, displayed on Google’s Canadian homepage on July 4, 2012. You can even find the Hartland Covered Bridge featured in Canadian postage stamps as part of Canada Post’s Historic Covered Bridges series, issued on June 17, 2019.
2. Sawmill Creek Bridge – New Brunswick
The Sawmill Creek Bridge is around 105 feet long.
New Brunswick isn’t just home to the Hartland Covered Bridge. It also boasts another historical marvel – the Sawmill Creek Bridge. This particular bridge has withstood the test of time, even after experiencing significant natural calamities over the years.
The Saxby Gale of October 1869, a devastating storm characterized by fierce winds and high tides. This resulted in widespread destruction along the Bay of Fundy. This storm toppled homes, caused casualties, and even dismantled the bridge over Sawmill Creek.
However, resilience triumphed over ruin when the bridge was rebuilt as a covered structure, serving as an integral part of the highway for many years. The existing covered bridge, as we know it today, opened in 1905.
When plans were underway to replace this landmark with a concrete bridge in 1975, the Albert County Heritage Trust stepped in. This recently-formed organization appealed to the government and successfully deterred the demolition of the covered bridge.
This bridge, approximately 105 feet in length, is now exclusively for pedestrian use. On the other hand, a new roadway along Route 114 in Hopewell Hill now accommodates vehicle traffic.
The Sawmill Creek Covered Bridge’s enduring wooden architecture serves as a beautifully maintained time capsule, promising a nostalgic journey back to a bygone era. It remains in its original position, making it a testament to New Brunswick’s rich heritage and a must-see landmark when exploring Canada’s vibrant history.
3. Pointe Wolfe Bridge – New Brunswick
The bright red color of the Pointe Wolfe Bridge definitely stands out.
Fundy National Park, a Canadian gem, offers numerous sights and attractions, including waterfalls, scenic trails, campsites, and a beach. Amongst these rich offerings, the Pointe Wolfe Covered Bridge holds a unique place.
Established to facilitate passage across the Pointe Wolfe River, which pours into the Bay of Fundy, this bridge was resurrected in 1992 after the original unfortunately succumbed to a construction mishap. At 94 feet long, the Pointe Wolfe Bridge is a single-span Howe truss structure.
Uniquely, the Pointe Wolfe bridge is the only bridge in the entire province that has a vibrant red hue.
For those seeking to capture the bridge’s beauty through a lens and looking to deviate from the usual touristy snapshots, a different perspective awaits at Pointe Wolfe Beach. Venture down to the beach during low tide and cross over to where the Pointe Wolfe River merges into the estuary. This vantage point promises to reward you with stunning and unique photo opportunities of the iconic Pointe Wolfe Covered Bridge.
4. The Ashnola Bridge – British Columbia
The last remaining covered bridge in Western Canada is the Ashnola Bridge.
The Ashnola Bridge, locally cherished as the Red Bridge, is a heritage site in Keremeos, British Columbia.
Gracing the west side of Keremeos and spanning the Similkameen River, the bridge marks the entryway to Cathedral Provincial Park and the Ashnola recreation area. Established by VV&E Railroad in 1909, the Red Bridge holds a significant place in the landscape of the Similkameen Valley.
Notably, it carries the distinction of being the only surviving covered bridge in Western Canada. Having withstood the test of time and change for over a century, the Red Bridge, aptly named for its striking red exterior, stretches an impressive 985 feet across the Similkameen River.
Over the years, the Ashnola Bridge has evolved beyond its original function of facilitating trade, growing into a symbol of community connection. The bridge has served a range of users, from miners and icemakers to local children. This bridge initially opened its doors to the Great Northern Railway amidst the gold mining era. Following the removal of its tracks in 1954, it transitioned to accommodate vehicle traffic in the early 1960s and underwent restoration in 2004.
Nowadays, the Ashnola Bridge serves as a key highway bridge, taking travelers to the south side of the Similkameen River and toward the Ashnola River. The Ashnola Bridge, similar to the Hartland Covered Bridge, has also been prominently showcased on Canadian postage stamps.
5. Guelph Covered Bridge – Ontario
The Guelph Covered Bridge is the beginning of the Eramosa Trail.
While Ontario officially claims just one covered bridge (number 6 on our list), this overlooks the remarkable 144-foot lattice-covered pedestrian bridge in Guelph, the Guelph Covered Bridge. This architectural beauty spans the junction of the Eramosa and Speed Rivers, serving as a city symbol.
400 dedicated volunteers from the Timber Framers’ Guild hand-made this bridge in 1992. The bridge’s design pays homage to Ithiel Town’s 1880s patent and is particularly admired for the abundance of natural light that enters its interior. While metal bars and bolts reinforce the supports, the bridge’s interior boasts handcrafted wooden dowels, offering an authentic touch. This bridge’s intricate lattice work is sure to attract anyone with an appreciation for unique architectural designs.
For those venturing along Ontario’s renowned butter tart trail, a visit to the Guelph Covered Bridge is an absolute must. This architectural gem marks the beginning of the scenic 4.1-kilometer Eramosa Trail that winds alongside the river.
Close to the bridge is the Boat House restaurant, an establishment open daily that can provide a delightful culinary experience after a day of sightseeing.
6. West Montrose Covered Bridge – Ontario
The West Montrose Covered Bridge connects Covered Bridge Drive, Hill Street, and Rivers Edge Drive.
Locally referred to as the “kissing bridge,” the West Montrose Covered Bridge is an architectural marvel. Built in 1881, this covered bridge, topped with a gable roof, holds the distinction of being the oldest in Ontario. And this bridge is “technically” the only remaining covered bridge in the area.
The bridge, measuring just beyond 200 feet, connects Covered Bridge Drive, Hill Street, and Rivers Edge Drive. The red-painted wood further enhances the aesthetic appeal of this bridge.
The West Montrose Covered Bridge has earned a place on the Ontario Bridge List. This prestigious list, maintained by the Ministry of Culture, features bridges of significant provincial importance. Furthermore, the Ontario Heritage Trust has acknowledged the bridge’s historical importance with a commemorative plaque.
The bridge’s initial construction was purely wooden. However, over a century of evolution and maintenance, it has seen several enhancements to preserve its function and form. Today, it is a blend of stone, concrete, wood, asphalt, and steel, showcasing the progression of bridge technology and the diligent preservation efforts of the township and the province.
The bridge’s charming nickname, the “kissing bridge,” originates from a delightful local custom. In the days when horse and buggy was the primary mode of transportation, the rumor was that a kiss was the toll required for crossing the bridge. Not a bad place to take your loved one on a date!
7. Powerscourt Covered Bridge – Quebec
One of the oldest covered bridges in Canada is the Powerscourt Covered Bridge.
The Powerscourt Covered Bridge, also sometimes called the Percy Bridge, is a special and historic bridge located in Quebec. Built back in 1861, it is not just one of the oldest of its kind in Canada, but it also holds a unique place in global architecture.
Although not a railway bridge, the Powerscourt Covered Bridge was built with a special design called the McCallum inflexible arched truss, a design typically used for railway bridges.
The bridge, which crosses the Chateauguay River, has two separate parts supported by three strong stone columns. And in 2009, it was carefully restored to look exactly like it did when it was first built.
The Powerscourt Bridge is an important part of Canada’s history. It was named an official National Historic Site of Canada in 1984 and a Quebec Historic Monument in 1987. A Canadian postage stamp even featured this bridge, showing its importance to the country’s heritage. If you’re visiting Quebec, this old, beautiful bridge is a must-see.
8. Pont Grandchamp – Quebec
Quebec saw the construction of approximately 500 similar bridges in the early decades of the 1900s, marking a significant period in its architectural evolution.
Among these bridges, Pont Grandchamp Covered Bridge is a noteworthy structure in Sainte-Geneviève-de-Berthier, Quebec, and stands as a testament to early 20th-century architecture. Constructed in 1918 and spanning 113 feet across the Rivière Bayonne, it holds an important place in the region’s history.
The bridge is named in honor of Arthur Cornellier dit Grandchamp, a local farmer and industrialist. In 1885, Grandchamp had overseen the construction of a previous bridge at the same site, leaving his mark on the community.
By 1977, unfortunately, the Pont Grandchamp was showing signs of age and required restoration. Therefore, the bridge was temporarily closed to vehicle traffic, prompting a group of local residents to band together to renovate the landmark. The bridge reopened in 1996 after extensive restoration, with subsequent renovations funded by the local municipality and Hydro Quebec.
Today, the Pont Grandchamp is the last operational covered bridge in Lanaudière. In recognition of its historical significance, it was declared a municipal historic site in 2018.
9. Pont Molesworth – Quebec
Once upon a time, Quebec boasted over 1,000 covered bridges. Now, however, fewer than one hundred of these architectural marvels remain – one of which is Pont Molesworth.
Constructed in 1930, the Pont Molesworth Covered Bridge in Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Quebec, is a sight to behold. Dressed in vibrant fire-engine red paint, this bridge stands out from its counterparts. Thanks to the addition of a central support pillar in 1950, it can also handle heavier loads than many other bridges in its vicinity.
The bridge represents an important aspect of Abitibi’s history. The region witnessed the construction of 34 covered bridges during its early 1900s colonization period, marking a significant chapter in North American history. Today, fewer than half of these iconic structures are standing.
The Pont Molesworth boasts a Lattice truss bridge design, a popular choice modified by the Quebec Ministry of Colonisation. This design was utilized in over 500 covered bridges across Quebec, showcasing its reliability and aesthetic appeal.
While originally grey in color, the bridge received substantial renovations in 1987 and 2017.
The Pont Molesworth isn’t merely a bridge; it’s a piece of Quebec’s cultural heritage. Its significance is officially recognized in the répertoire du patrimoine culturel du Québec.
10. Wakefield Covered Bridge – Quebec
Previously called the Gendron Bridge, he Wakefield Covered Bridge is a bright red bridge.
Originally established in 1915, the Wakefield Covered Bridge was a delightful red landmark that connected the banks of the Gatineau River. Tragically, an arson attack in 1984 reduced the bridge to mere ashes. Nevertheless, the determined townsfolk rallied together to fundraise for its restoration. Today, although it only allows pedestrian traffic, a stroll down to the bridge via Chemin Du Vieux-Pont is an absolute must!
Previously known as the Gendron Bridge, the Wakefield Covered Bridge became a valuable economic tool that transformed the district’s growth. Its striking tower lattice truss design and location overlooking La Peche Rapids also added to its significance.
Seeing this local icon ablaze on the night of July 10, 1984, was heart-wrenching. However, undeterred by this horrible tragedy, the locals undertook multiple fundraising initiatives between 1991 and 1997 to accumulate all of the resources needed to rebuild their bridge. Generous donations poured in from private individuals, even from as far as Texas, along with local enterprises and government grants.
After much community effort, the Wakefield Covered Bridge officially reopened on October 4, 1997. Now, it stands as a popular attraction, offering residents and tourists a walking path and access to a swimming spot.
