Covered Bridge scenic byway is in southeast Ohio east of Marietta. The byway begins at the junction of OH 7 and OH 26. It follows OH 26 northeasterly to Woodsfield. The highway is a narrow, two-lane paved road suitable for most vehicles. Covered Bridge is 47 miles long and is open all year.

The Covered Bridge scenic drive winds through the pretty hills and valleys of southeastern Ohio across Wayne National Forest. Little Muskingum River flows alongside much of the byway and provides good fishing and canoeing. Wildlife that may be seen along the byway includes white-tailed deer, turkeys, beavers, red foxes, raccoons, and minks. This scenic byway is especially beautiful in fall when the route is covered with brilliant colors of red, orange, and yellow. Before traveling the byway, pick up a brochure from the Forest Service office in Marietta. It highlights ten points of interest along the way.

Ohio once boasted of 2,000 covered bridges, more than any other state. You'll come across three of these historical bridges. These bridges were covered with a roof, not to protect travelers from the elements of weather, but to keep the main structural timbers dry. If left exposed to rain, the timber would quickly rot.

There are two national forest campgrounds on the byway: Hune Bridge and Haught Run. The Hune Bridge area has only two campsites with picnic tables; Haught Run has three. No drinking water is available at either campground.

The many rivers and streams within the national forest provide excellent opportunities for fishing. Anglers will find a large variety of fish including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, bluegill, catfish, and crappie. The rivers also provide pleasant canoe trips. Outfitters can provide you with all that you need to enjoy a leisurely float.

If you feel like stretching your legs a bit, you can catch the North Country National Scenic Trail from the byway. This portion of the trail winds through the national forest between Woodsfield and Hune Covered Bridge.

Information: Wayne National Forest, Marietta Field Office, Route 1 Box 132, Marietta OH 45750 / 740-373-9055