An Unforgettable Autumn Escape Awaits
Fall in Ashtabula County feels like stepping into a postcard. The trees light up with color as the crisp air rolls in from Lake Erie, and 19 covered bridges—some over a century old—set the stage for the Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Festival. For the first time in 40 years, the festival is moving. This year. The bridges themselves will be hosting the activities, giving you a chance to celebrate right where the stories began.
Day One: Smolen–Gulf & Riverview Bridges
Kick off your adventure at the Smolen–Gulf Bridge, a jaw-dropping 613 feet long, the longest covered bridge in the United States. This charming two-lane wooden giant was built in 2008 using a type of Pratt truss design. Giving a nod to classic craftsmanship blended with modern engineering.
Most importantly, stroll the walkways for sweeping views of the Ashtabula River below. Then, just steps away, take a walk across the Riverview Covered Bridge, the newest bridge in the county, built in 2016. You will discover this one tucked beneath Smolen–Gulf and stretching across a scenic trail. During the festival, explore vendors, food stalls, strolling performers, and the famous bean soup cooked over an open fire.
Day Two: Harpersfield & the Oldest Bridge
On Sunday, head to the Harpersfield Covered Bridge, one of Ohio’s most historic spans. It has experienced floods, repairs, and renovations, including the addition of a steel truss and a walkway. This bridge is among the oldest in the county, standing strong for over 150 years. Ultimately, it remains a beloved landmark on the Grand River.
The festival here brings children’s games, history talks, crafters, and live music to the freshly renovated grounds, thanks to the help from the Friends of the Harpersfield Bridge.
A Drive Through Time
As the day goes on, explore more of the 19 covered bridges scattered across the county. Be sure not to miss the Mechanicsville Road Bridge. Built in 1867, it is the oldest standing bridge in the county, or the West Liberty Street Bridge in Geneva, just 18 feet long. It is the shortest drivable covered bridge in the U.S.
Each bridge has a story to tell through its craftsmanship, storied past, and those who have traversed these enchanting remnants from a simpler time.
Plan Your Trip to the Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Festival
This year’s Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Festival is set for October 12–13, 2025. All the activities, food, music, and crafts are happening at Smolen–Gulf, Riverview, and Harpersfield covered bridges. It’s two full days of history, community, and family fun in the heart of Ohio’s Covered Bridge Country. To learn more, visit coveredbridgefestival.org or check out Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Festival Headquarters on Facebook. Pack your camera, bring your appetite, and get ready to make fall memories you’ll want to return to year after year.
Visit the Compass Ohio Events page for more fall fun across Ohio and beyond.
