Ashland Covered Bridge
Delaware's oldest wooden covered bridge, offering historic charm over Red Clay Creek. A picturesque stop, but mind the traffic!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer cars, safer photos
Ashland Covered Bridge
Best Time
Fewer cars, safer photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Delaware's oldest wooden covered bridge, offering historic charm over Red Clay Creek. A picturesque stop, but mind the traffic!
"A beautiful and well-maintained covered span in an idyllic spot, but be careful of fast traffic!"
🚗 Be Wary of Traffic
Cars speed across the bridge. Use the pull-off and stay alert!
📸 Capture the Magic
Golden hour and full moons offer stunning photo opportunities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Covered Bridge
Spans Red Clay Creek
The oldest wooden covered bridge in Delaware, offering a glimpse into the past.
Scenic Red Clay Creek
Beneath the bridge
Admire the serene waters flowing beneath the charming, historic structure.
Picnic & Nature Spot
Near Ashland Nature Center
Enjoy the idyllic surroundings, perfect for a quiet moment or a short stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Traffic Safety First!
Best Photo Ops & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Be Wary of Traffic
Cars speed across the bridge. Use the pull-off and stay alert!
📸 Capture the Magic
Golden hour and full moons offer stunning photo opportunities.
🚶♀️ Admire the Creek
The serene Red Clay Creek adds to the bridge's charm.
📍 Small Parking Area
Limited parking is available at the bridge's foot.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Be Wary of Traffic
Cars speed across the bridge. Use the pull-off and stay alert!
📸 Capture the Magic
Golden hour and full moons offer stunning photo opportunities.
🚶♀️ Admire the Creek
The serene Red Clay Creek adds to the bridge's charm.
📍 Small Parking Area
Limited parking is available at the bridge's foot.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Ashland Covered Bridge for its picturesque beauty and historical significance, noting it as a well-maintained and idyllic spot. However, many caution strongly about the dangerous traffic speeds on the bridge, urging visitors to be extremely careful when crossing or taking photos.
"A beautiful and well-maintained covered span in an idyllic spot. Just be careful taking photos or just walking across it to admire its beauty because the local traffic flies over this bridge like it's not even there. I had to press myself against the inside wall as a car that I didn't hear coming drove through at what I'll say was about 45 MPH. The driver spotted me at the last second and nearly jump-scared his car into the lead-up. He didn't stop. Kept going. I then watched a line of cars rip through it from the other direction just as fast. It's a covered bridge, people, not an EasyPass toll booth. 15, maybe 20 MPH at most."
Shelly
"Ashland Covered Bridge was constructed circa 1860 and is one of three covered bridges in the State of Delaware. The bridge is similar in appearance and construction to the nearby Woodland Covered Bridge. Ashland Covered Bridge is located along busy Barley Mill Road and spans Red Clay Creek. There is a very small parking spot located at the foot of the bridge for anyone wanting to stop."
Ben Kranefeld
"If you're driving through Delaware I recommend checking it out, it's the oldest wooden covered bridge in the state."
James Dunn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ashland Covered Bridge is located on Barley Mill Road near the Ashland Nature Center in Delaware. It's accessible by car, with a small parking area available at the foot of the bridge.
Yes, there is a small parking spot located at the foot of the bridge for visitors who want to stop and admire it.
You can walk across the bridge, but be extremely cautious of vehicle traffic as cars tend to speed. Biking across is also possible but requires vigilance.
It's best to use the designated pull-off area to safely take photos. Be mindful of traffic coming from both directions.
Yes, Barley Mill Road can be a busy route, and drivers often pass over the bridge at higher speeds than recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit or cross the Ashland Covered Bridge. It is a public landmark.
The bridge is accessible at any time as it is an outdoor landmark. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.
There is no admission fee to visit the Ashland Covered Bridge. It's a free historical site to explore.
Yes, the Ashland Covered Bridge can be visited year-round. Its charm is present in all seasons, though weather conditions might affect accessibility.
The main restriction is to be mindful of traffic. It's advised to drive slowly and cautiously when approaching and crossing the bridge.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) provides beautiful lighting. Full moon nights offer a unique, magical ambiance.
Try capturing the bridge from the creek banks for a wider view, or from inside looking out to frame the scenery.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check local FAA and park guidelines before flying a drone in the area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire bridge and its surroundings. A tripod can be useful for low-light photography, especially during moonlit shots.
You can walk across the bridge and get close, but always prioritize safety due to the active traffic.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
You can admire the historic structure, enjoy the serene Red Clay Creek, and explore the nearby Ashland Nature Center for more outdoor activities.
Yes, there are often scenic spots nearby that are suitable for a picnic, offering a peaceful break.
A visit can be as short as 15-30 minutes to walk across and take photos, or longer if you plan to relax by the creek or visit the nature center.
The immediate area around the bridge and creek might have uneven terrain. The bridge itself is walkable, but accessibility can be limited depending on the specific path.
Constructed around 1860, it is the oldest wooden covered bridge in Delaware and is similar in design to the Woodland Covered Bridge.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining a visit with a stop at the Ashland Nature Center for more kid-friendly outdoor exploration. Pack snacks and be prepared for limited parking, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable outing for everyone.
📸 Photographers
Be mindful of the traffic; utilizing the small pull-off area is essential for safe shooting. Experiment with different angles, from the creek banks to the interior of the bridge, to capture its unique character.
🚗 Road Trippers
Remember to prioritize safety due to the traffic on Barley Mill Road. A brief stop to admire the bridge and its surroundings is easily manageable within a day's travel.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The Ashland Covered Bridge
This iconic structure spans the tranquil Red Clay Creek, adding to its picturesque charm. The bridge is situated along Barley Mill Road, a route that, while scenic, demands extra caution from visitors due to the speed of local traffic. Despite this, the bridge remains a beloved landmark, offering a tangible connection to Delaware's rich history and architectural heritage.
Visitors often find the area around the bridge to be a serene drive with beautiful views. It's a place where history meets nature, providing a peaceful escape for those who appreciate historical architecture and natural beauty.
Navigating Traffic and Safety
It's crucial for visitors to be extremely cautious when walking on or near the bridge. The advice from those who have experienced it is to utilize the small pull-off area provided and to remain highly aware of approaching vehicles from both directions. Pressing against the inside wall of the bridge is a tactic some have used for safety, but proactive awareness is key.
For the best and safest experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours, such as weekday mornings, when traffic might be lighter. This will allow for a more relaxed appreciation of the bridge's beauty and a safer environment for capturing photographs.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit