Hartland: Covered Bridge, Market and Trails

Hartland combines a remarkable bridge history with cultural attractions and trails for cycling, winter activities and hiking. If you’re looking for a hotel in Hartland, the Covered Bridge, W.W. Craig Gallery, annual market and local trails can help guide your trip planning. Check market dates, tea events and seasonal trail conditions in advance.

Covered Bridge and History

The Hartland Covered Bridge officially opened on July 4, 1901. It is designated a National Historic Site of Canada and a Provincial Historic Site. Its side footpath was added in 1945; the opening and addition thus mark two distinct milestones in the bridge’s history. The Hartland Covered Bridge in Carleton County is considered the longest covered bridge in the world. These historic designations and precise dates give you a specific point of reference if you’re interested in the history of the community.

The Hartland Covered Bridge Market is another date-specific point to consider when planning your trip: it takes place each year on the New Brunswick Day weekend. During the first weekend in August, the bridge is closed to traffic as part of the celebration, allowing visitors to go inside and see its historic wooden architecture. On Monday, the market features stalls run by local artists, food vendors and craftspeople. Check the event dates and program before your trip; vendors may also vary from year to year.

Gallery and Events

The W.W. Craig Gallery combines exhibitions with a recurring program of events. Its permanent exhibits include Premier Richard Hatfield’s parliamentary, or legislative, desk and personal belongings of Dr. Walter Chestnut. The gallery hosts traditional English teas several times a year. If you’d like to plan around one of these events, ask about the next tea in advance. This lets you consider the exhibition visit and event program as separate aspects of your stay.

Trails for Cycling, Winter Activities and Hiking

The Becaguimec Trail Association established and maintains the Becaguimec trail system for mountain biking. You can access the system from Highway 105 or behind the Hartland Arena. Trail conditions and access points may change seasonally, so check them before setting out. In winter, snowshoeing on the Becaguimec Trails starts at the playground behind Hartland Community School. This activity has its own stated starting point, while the Highway 105 and behind-the-arena access points lead to the Becaguimec trail system.

Another hiking option is the Upper St. John River Valley Trail, part of the Trans Canada Trail. It passes through Hartland and is used by hikers. The activities are distinct: mountain biking and snowshoeing are listed for the Becaguimec Trails, while the Valley Trail runs through Hartland and is used by hikers.

Golf Club and Walking Trails

The Covered Bridge Golf & Country Club stretches for 6,609 yards along the rolling hills above the Saint John River and has walking trails. That means both the Becaguimec trail system and the golf club’s trails are described options for outdoor activities. Along with the Upper St. John River Valley Trail, which runs through Hartland, these offer a range of places and activities to consider when deciding to visit Hartland.

Discover more destinations: Jacksonville, Wakefield, Wilmot, Florenceville-Bristol, Centreville

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