R E C R E ATI O N / COVERED BRIDGES
There’s nothing like a day trip through the Western Maine region (also known as the Foothills) in the fall when the colors of autumn are peak. The site of a covered bridge, actually six of them to be exact, only enhances this scenic adventure! You’ll start your journey at Babb Bridge, on the Hurricane Road in Gorham, where it presides over the Presumscot River. The bridge has been reconstructed, but the original 79-footer was built in 1843. Destroyed by a fire in 1973, the replica was opened in 1976. Today it connects the towns of Gorham and Windham. Head west to the Parsonsfield – Porter Bridge located at 51 Kezar Mountain Road in Parsonfield. This bridge crosses the Ossipee River and was built in 1859. It was a collaboration between the towns. A new bridge just down river caused the closing of this bridge to traffic, but it’s still worth the visit as it’s one of the most scenic in Maine. Lovejoy Bridge in Andover is next on the list. This little, Maine’s shortest at only 70 feet, allows visitors to cross the Ellis River.
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Onward to the Sunday River Bridge, Maine’s most famous covered bridge. It’s often referred to as “Artist’s Bridge” in recognition of the artists who have been coming here for years to paint it. Though closed to traffic since 1958, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to see and photograph it. Our journey takes us next to Hemlock Bridge in Fryeburg. This 110-foot bridge still allows vehicular traffic. Finished in 1857, it spans a portion of the Saco River on Route 302. Just 3 miles northwest of East Fryeburg, don’t forget to visit some of the shops and restaurants in town or stop for a day at the Fryeburg Fair in October. The sixth and final bridge on our tour is Bennett Bridge in Lincoln Plantation. Built in 1901 to gain access across the Magalloway River, it’s been closed to traffic since 1985. You’ll find this gem about 1.5 miles south of Wilson Mills, in Errol. This entire trek will take about 6 hours. We would suggest a lovely overnight stay in any of the quaint towns and villages along the way or the Rangeley Inn is a short 40 minute drive from Bennett Bridge in one of western Maine’s most scenic towns.
