Longest covered bridge in the United States featuring dual walkways and scenic views over a deep river gorge, blending modern engineering with traditional charm.
General Information
How to Get There
From Cleveland, OH (65 mi): Take I-90 E toward Erie. Take exit 228 for OH-11 S toward Ashtabula. Take the US-20 exit toward Ashtabula, then turn left onto State Rd and follow signs to the bridge.
Overview
The Historic Smolen-Gulf Covered Bridge is a marvel of modern engineering and a tribute to Ohio’s rich tradition of covered bridges. Spanning 613 feet across the Ashtabula River, it holds the title of the longest covered bridge in the United States. Designed by former Ashtabula County Engineer John Smolen and completed in 2008, the bridge features a Pratt truss design, two five-foot-wide pedestrian walkways, and a striking Olympus Green stain that blends beautifully with the surrounding forested gorge. Built with over 600,000 board feet of timber and reinforced with steel, it was designed to support full legal loads, including heavy trucks, while offering a picturesque route for drivers and walkers alike.
Set within the scenic Indian Trails Park, the bridge is a highlight of Ashtabula County’s renowned covered bridge trail, which includes 19 historic spans. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the bridge or explore the Red Horse Trail below for a unique perspective. The nearby Riverview Covered Pedestrian Bridge, completed in 2016, adds to the charm of the area, making it a favorite destination for photographers, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts. Whether you're on a fall foliage tour or a summer road trip, the Smolen-Gulf Covered Bridge is a must-see landmark that captures the spirit of Ohio’s rural heritage.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the Smolen-Gulf Covered Bridge, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
