Hartland’s covered bridge is both a historic structure and the setting for an annual market. There are also exhibitions and teas at the W.W. Craig Gallery, as well as a range of trail activities. If you’re looking for a vacation rental in Hartland, consider the market program, gallery offerings and seasonal outdoor conditions when choosing your dates.
The Covered Bridge: Construction History and Market
The Hartland Covered Bridge was built in 1901 and officially opened on July 4, 1901. A pedestrian walkway along its side was added in 1945. It is designated a National Historic Site of Canada and a Provincial Historic Site. In the broader destination of Carleton County, it is recognized as the world’s longest covered bridge.
The Hartland Covered Bridge Market takes place every year on the New Brunswick Day weekend. During the celebration on the first weekend of August, the bridge is closed to traffic so visitors can go inside and see its historic wooden architecture. On Monday, the market features stalls run by local artists, food vendors and craftspeople. If the event determines your travel dates, check the specific dates and program in advance; vendor participation may vary from year to year.
Exhibitions and English Teas
The W.W. Craig Gallery in Hartland displays, among other things, the parliamentary, or legislative, desk of Premier Richard Hatfield and personal belongings of Dr. Walter Chestnut. The current exhibitions give the gallery visit a historical focus. The gallery also hosts traditional English teas several times a year. If you’d like to plan a visit for tea, check the current dates in advance.
Mountain Biking, Hiking and Snowshoeing
The Becaguimec Trail Association created and maintains the Becaguimec trail system for mountain biking. You can access the system from Highway 105 or enter it behind the Hartland Arena. A different starting point is specified for snowshoeing on the Becaguimec Trails: begin at the playground behind Hartland Community School. The described trailheads therefore vary by activity and season.
Another hiking option is the Upper St. John River Valley Trail, part of the Trans Canada Trail. It runs through Hartland and is used by hikers. The Covered Bridge Golf & Country Club also has walking trails. Its golf course stretches for 6,609 yards along gentle hills above the Saint John River. Trail conditions and access may change seasonally; check conditions and access information before planning your visit.
More Historical Attractions in the Broader Destination of Carleton County
The broader destination of Carleton County also has other distinct bridge and history attractions. The Florenceville Covered Bridge was built in 1910 and is 45.3 meters long. The North Becaguimec River No. 4 Covered Bridge, also known as Ellis Bridge, is located in Lower Windsor.
The Carleton County Military Museum displays artifacts, uniforms, helmets, badges, handmade military models and flags dating from before the First World War to the present day. It also traces the development of the Carleton Light Infantry through the Carleton York Regiment and other regiments in New Brunswick. The Old Carleton County Court House was built in 1833 and offers tours and exhibitions; visitors can sit in the dock.
Discover more destinations: Wakefield, Centreville, Wilmot, Florenceville-Bristol, Jacksonville
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