Contoocook Covered Railroad Bridge
Walk through a tall, historic covered bridge and enjoy the scenic Contoocook River with swimming and picnic spots.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for swimming and enjoying the river
Contoocook Covered Railroad Bridge
Best Time
Perfect for swimming and enjoying the river
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Walk through a tall, historic covered bridge and enjoy the scenic Contoocook River with swimming and picnic spots.
"It was so big to walk through. The roaring river below you is crazy and pretty."
📸 Great Photo Ops
Surprisingly free of graffiti, this spot offers beautiful river and bridge photos. :camerawithflash:
🏊♀️ River Fun
Bring your swimsuit! The river has shallow and deep areas, plus a rope swing for adventurous swimmers. :woman_swimming:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 135 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Contoocook Covered Railroad Bridge
Contoocook River
Walk through this impressively tall and historic covered bridge, enjoying river views through the wooden slats.
Contoocook River Swim Spot
Contoocook River
Enjoy swimming in the river, with shallow rocky areas for photos and deeper spots featuring a rope swing.
Historic Railway Station
Adjacent to the bridge
Relax by the river at the old railway station, complete with a sitting area and a large gazebo.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the River's Charm
Bridge History & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Great Photo Ops
Surprisingly free of graffiti, this spot offers beautiful river and bridge photos. :camerawithflash:
🏊♀️ River Fun
Bring your swimsuit! The river has shallow and deep areas, plus a rope swing for adventurous swimmers. :woman_swimming:
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Utilize the picnic tables and gazebo for a relaxing lunch by the river. :forkandknifewithplate:
🚶♀️ Stretch Your Legs
A pleasant place to stop and take a leisurely stroll. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Great Photo Ops
Surprisingly free of graffiti, this spot offers beautiful river and bridge photos. :camerawithflash:
🏊♀️ River Fun
Bring your swimsuit! The river has shallow and deep areas, plus a rope swing for adventurous swimmers. :woman_swimming:
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Utilize the picnic tables and gazebo for a relaxing lunch by the river. :forkandknifewithplate:
🚶♀️ Stretch Your Legs
A pleasant place to stop and take a leisurely stroll. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Contoocook Covered Railroad Bridge, often highlighting its impressive height and picturesque setting. The adjacent river is a major draw for swimming and recreation, with reviewers appreciating the variety of water access points and amenities like picnic areas. While its historical claims are debated, the bridge's charm and the overall beauty of the area make it a memorable stop.
"This is the TALLEST covered bridge I've been to yet. It was so pretty. Everything about it. It was tall and red and I dont believe the sign but it says it's the oldest covered bridge in the world? Google says otherwise. Anyway, it was so big to walk through. The roaring river below you is crazy and pretty. You can see it slightly through the cracks of the wood since there are no windows in this bridge. On the other side, there is the railway station that has a sitting area by the river and also a big gazebo for some shade. The town, the bridge, the river, the area, was all very beautiful. I'd like to come back here. There was plenty of parking. I went when it was sunny and warm and it made my whole day ."
iisabelle Humphreys
"Such a beautiful place with many restaurants/business around to shop and dine at when your done swimming. The river has a shallow/rocky area great for pictures. The other side of the river is nice and deep with trees that hang over the water. Hanging from the trees is also a rope swing. Next to the parking lot are picnic tables and a gazebo perfect for eating lunch at. There's plenty of parking and it's an overall great swim spot.
Update: the other side of the river has soft sand and teenagers like to climb the trees and jump off of them."
Rebecca Quimpo
"It's a great spot to take some photos by the river. It's very nice and surprisingly not graffiti to death. Thank God most photo spots have been graffitied this one you can still get great photos."
Aaron Baumgartner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The bridge is located in Contoocook, New Hampshire. Driving is the most common way to access it, with ample parking available nearby. Specific directions can be found using GPS or mapping apps.
Yes, reviewers mention plenty of parking available near the bridge and river access points, making it convenient for visitors.
Public transport options to Contoocook may be limited. It's best to check local bus routes or consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the Contoocook Covered Railroad Bridge and the surrounding river area is generally free of charge. It's a public access point.
The bridge and river area are typically accessible during daylight hours. There are no official opening or closing times posted, but it's best to visit when it's safe and well-lit.
There is no admission fee for accessing the Contoocook River for swimming or for the park areas with picnic tables and gazebos.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk through the historic covered bridge, enjoy the views of the Contoocook River, swim in designated areas, have a picnic, and take photos. The old railway station area offers a place to relax.
Yes, it's a great place to stretch your legs. The bridge is wide enough to walk through comfortably, and the surrounding area is pleasant for a stroll.
Information on restrooms is not consistently mentioned in reviews. It's advisable to check local town resources or plan accordingly before your visit.
Yes, you can see the river below through the cracks in the wooden planks of the bridge, adding to the unique experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The bridge itself offers great exterior and interior shots. The riverbanks, especially the shallow, rocky areas, are ideal for capturing scenic views and the bridge in the background. The gazebo also provides a nice framing element.
The bridge and river are picturesque in all seasons. Summer offers lush greenery and river activities, while fall brings vibrant foliage. Winter can offer a serene, snow-dusted landscape.
No specific restrictions on photography have been mentioned. It's a public space, so general etiquette applies. Be mindful of other visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit