Visiting The World’s Longest Covered Bridge, Hartland, New Brunswick
It’s that time of the year when our family takes their annual road trip. This year we decided to visit Eastern Canada. The first stop on our trip was Hartford, New Brunswick.
Hartand, New Brunswick is a beautiful and charming town on the banks of St. John River. The first thing we did when we arrived in Hartland was to drive through the World’s Longest Covered Bridge.
World’s Longest Covered Bridge Facts
Measuring an incredible 1,282 feet, (a few football fields long) the bridge crosses the Saint John River from Harland to Somerville and it opened in 1901. You can just feel the incredible history when you pass through it. Only one side can pass at a time, single traffic only, and it is a courtesy passing. There are no large flashing lights, people just know to wait their turn and then go through.
The people of this quaint little town take pride in the covered bridge, having rebuilt after fires and floods that threatened its charm and history. Everyone we met, was kind and smiling, we felt very welcomed throughout this little town.
Things To Do Once You Cross The Bridge
Once you cross the Longest Covered Bridge, just to your right, is the Dr. Walter Chestnut Library. Built in 1912, after the bridge, it was originally meant to be the federal post office. The historical features remain to this day, of the most notable is the beautiful staircase where you can experience a spectacular view of both of the bridges in Hartland.
Since the building is no longer a post office, the three levels have been renovated, as well as the clock tower that chimes the hour.
We took a walk along the waterside trails and sat down for ice cream just to enjoy the spectacular view of the river and the bridge.
The Hartland Visitor Information Center, a quick stop with some local crafts available to purchase. There is ample parking and it’s a great place to grab a few souvenirs. If you are really adventurous, take the 15 min walk across the bridge on a parallel path.
Make Sure To Visit The Covered Bridge Potato Chip Factory
After passing back through the World’s Longest Covered Bridge, we stopped at the Covered Bridge Potato Chip Factory. This factor is nestled in the heart of potato country. This is a kettle chip company with an old taste. Outside the building, they have their own miniature covered bridge. Inside, there is a charming giftshop.
You can take a tour of the factory to see for yourself the process of growing homegrown dark Russett potatoes and witness how they make their delicious potato chips. After the tour, guests are given a sample of the chips to enjoy while they walk around. There are many flavors of potato chips, some that I have never seen before; Creamy Dill Pickle, Homestyle Ketsup, Atlantic Lobster, Sea Salt, Sour Cream & Onion, Sea Salt & Pepper, Smokin’ BBQ, Sweet Potato, Sweet & Spicy Jalapeno, The Weekender, Cheddar Crinkle Cut, Red & White, and Pure & Simple. If popcorn is more your thing, they also have an interesting variety.
If you have a day and are passing through, make sure to stop in Hartland, enjoy the culture, share in the history and the experience; surely a fun filled, relaxing day that will not be a disappointment.
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