Covered Bridges

Ponts couverts

New Brunswick boasts the highest number of covered bridges in Canada, with over a dozen historic wooden structures spanning scenic rivers throughout the province. These charming bridges represent important pieces of heritage and offer picturesque photography opportunities.

Things to do

• Hartland Covered Bridge Walk — Stroll across Canada's longest covered bridge at 391 meters, built in 1901, and enjoy riverside views from both ends.
• Photography Tour at Covered Bridge Scenic Routes — Drive the Acadian Peninsula and Central New Brunswick routes to capture multiple historic bridges in their natural landscape settings.
• Guided Heritage Bridge Tours — Join interpretive walks led by local historians who explain the engineering, history, and construction techniques of these wooden structures.
• Salmon Fishing on Covered Bridge Rivers — Fish the Miramichi and Saint John rivers beneath and near covered bridges during salmon season for an authentic local experience.
• Picnic and Sketching at Bridge Viewpoints — Pack local provisions and spend time drawing or painting at designated scenic overlooks near structures like the Covered Bridge in Florenceville.
• Covered Bridge Museum Visit — Explore exhibits on bridge construction, engineering innovations, and the cultural significance of these structures in New Brunswick heritage.

Food to try

• Acadian Rappie Pie — A savory potato and meat pie that is a signature Acadian dish found throughout New Brunswick's covered bridge regions.
• Fresh Miramichi Salmon — Sample locally caught Atlantic salmon prepared simply grilled or smoked, sourced from rivers flowing beneath the covered bridges.
• Dulse and Seaweed Snacks — Try this traditional Maritime seaweed harvested from New Brunswick's Bay of Fundy waters, often eaten as a crispy snack.
• New Brunswick Wild Blueberries — Enjoy fresh or baked blueberries from local farms, featuring prominently in pies, jams, and desserts at regional eateries.
• Lobster Roll — Taste fresh Atlantic lobster served on toasted bread, a classic Maritime delicacy available throughout the province.

Local customs & good to know

• Best Visiting Season — Visit May through October when bridges are fully accessible, roads are clear, and local festivals celebrate bridge heritage with traditional crafts and tours.
• Respect for Historic Structures — Drive slowly across bridges, stay on designated paths, and avoid heavy vehicles; these wooden structures are fragile and require visitor care to preserve them for future generations.
• Local Bridge Numbering Tradition — New Brunswick residents often reference covered bridges by their locations and river names rather than formal titles, so ask locals for directions using geographical landmarks.