In 2022, we had the opportunity to spend just about every summer weekend at a campground in Southern New Hampshire. I came away from the experience with a renewed love of Northern New England and many images and video clips that I am quite happy with. I suspect the next time we return it will be to escape the baking summers of Florida for the entire season. There are so many places left to explore both in towns and countryside. During our stay in 2022, we found many covered bridges to enjoy and photograph.
Their unique construction and historical significance make them a popular photo and painting subject for artists and photographers alike.
A modern Truck streaks across a covered bridge near Keene, NH. By setting the shutter to 1/4 second, I was able to capture the truck as just a blur.
The bridges were built in the 1800s to provide safe passage across rivers and streams. The covered wooden design protected the wooden structure from harsh elements, increasing the longevity and durability of the bridges.
Today, many of these bridges have been restored and preserved, and they offer a charming glimpse into New Hampshire's past. They can be found in small towns and on rural roads throughout the region, making for picturesque photo opportunities.
The wooden bridges also provide great inspiration for artists looking to capture the unique beauty and charm of the New Hampshire countryside. Whether through painting or photography, these iconic structures are a beloved subject for many who visit the area.
The Carlton Bridge in late Spring just as a cloudy day gave way to clearing skies in the west at sunset
Overall, the covered wooden bridges of southern New Hampshire are treasures of the region's history and culture and will continue to inspire and delight visitors and locals alike for generations to come.
Their rustic elegance and enduring strength are a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the people who built them, and their continued maintenance and preservation serve as a reminder of the importance of maintaining our cultural heritage.
As people continue to flock to New Hampshire to witness the autumn foliage, ski in the winter, and enjoy the vibrant summer activities, the covered wooden bridges remain a must-see landmark of this beautiful state. And for those who take the time to explore them up close, the experience will be nothing short of magical.
If you don’t have a boat or at least waders, it can be difficult to get a nice composition from dry land. Here I took advantage of a some foreground framing in this composition. I can taste the apple pie and fresh brewed coffee.
The quaint, charming bridges are a testament to New Hampshire's rich history and craftsmanship. Built by skilled artisans using traditional techniques, these structures were once the lifelines of communities, connecting towns across rivers and streams.
Walking across a covered bridge, it's easy to imagine what life was like in the past, when horse-drawn carriages and wagons trundled across the wooden planks, and the sound of rushing water echoed beneath.
Each bridge has its own unique charm, with intricate latticework, arches, and trusses that are beautiful to behold. Some are painted a bright red, others natural wood, and some are even adorned with flowers, adding to their picturesque appeal.
The bridges also offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, with foliage, waterfalls, and wildlife all visible from the bridge's vantage point. For photographers or artists, they are a perfect subject, providing endless inspiration and creative potential.
Indeed, the covered bridges of New Hampshire are more than just historical relics; they are living, breathing reminders of a simpler, more beautiful time. Whether you're a native or a visitor, taking the time to explore these bridges is an experience not to be missed.
It is hard to imagine that just an hour before we were huddled in our camper waiting out a massive thunderstorm, but just in time for a perfect solar alignment, the skies cleared.
Every bridge is unique and has its own story to tell. Some have been reconstructed due to damage from floods and other natural disasters, while others have been preserved for generations.
No matter which bridge you visit, you'll feel transported back in time to a simpler era. Take a leisurely stroll, snap some photos, or just bask in the beauty of these iconic structures. With their rich history and stunning scenery, the covered bridges of New Hampshire are a true treasure of the Granite State.