Nine historic covered bridges still stand in the state of Maine. (At one time there were 120 of these bridges in the state, but natural elements and progress have unfortunally precipitated the demise of all but those now remaining.) Built between the mid 1800s and early 1900s, these wooden bridges crossed Maine's swifty moving rivers, allowing travelers in horsedrawn carriages to traverse the state's precipitous waterways without getting swept downstream. Today they present a wonderful "photo opportunity" for those wishing to photograph a bit of history! The five bridges listed below are located in the Western Mountains & Lakes Region. The Bennet Bridge and Lovejoy Bridge are closest to the Rangeley Region.

LOVEJOY BRIDGE: Built in 1883, this bridge attests to be Maine's shortest covered bridge. It crosses over the Ellis River and is located south of the town of Andover on Route 5.

SUNDAY RIVER BRIDGE: Commonly referred to as the "Artist's Bridge", as it has been painted and photographed so frequently over the years. Built in 1872, it crosses over the Sunday River and is located 4 miles northwest of North Bethel on Routes 2 and 26.

HEMLOCK BRIDGE: Circa 1857. This bridge crosses over the Saco River and is located 3 miles northwest of East Fryeburg on Route 302.

BENNETT BRIDGE: Circa 1901, this bridge crosses over the Magalloway River and is located 1 mile west of the Wilson's Mills Grange Hall and Fire Station on Route 16 towards New Hampshire.

BABB'S BRIDGE: Maine's oldest covered bridge (circa 1843) was rebuilt in 1973 after it burned. It crosses over the Presumpscot River and is located 2.5 miles north of South Windham on the River Road.

Historic Bridges in Maine • Maine Guide to Covered Bridges

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