Flume (#39) 9:00am
This is the first bridge that we have ever had to pay to see, but since there are two covered bridges at the Flume, it wasn't that bad.
It was special to have the Flume to ourselves. We didn't see another human until we got the Sentinel Pine Bridge.
The Flume Visitor center has some great covered bridge models. They also have a cute gift shop. There are only so many places to get good bridge merch. We treated ourselves to matching covered bridge Christmas ornaments and a puzzle. Note: My ornament broke after a long day of bridge hunting. Don't worry- I will repair it in ten years and put a sign on it that reads: built in 1832.
I see bridge #39!
The Flume Bridge was built in 1871. It has a Paddleford truss. The Flume bridge has a pedestrian bridge on one side. The main bridge is for shuttle bus traffic only...
...but if you walk around the fence, you can take a picture in front of the bridge.
Lalalala...we are taking pictures of the scenery, not walking near the bridge, Mr. Shuttle Bus Driver...Lalalala
Danger! Don't stand there, Ellen.
On to our adventure through the Flume. It was a cool morning, but the rain and the river mist made the paths and staircases very slippery. There were signs warning of the dangers everywhere. I think I counted ten signs warning us that there would be wet stairs ahead.
We probably should have worn better footwear.
Wait...there are stairs at the Flume?
Time to find the Sentinel Pine (#38).
There it is!
This bridge is over a gorge. It is not for the faint of heart.
Can you spot Ellen?
This bridge takes its name from the pine tree that was used to make it. They said the tree stood watch over the pool like a sentry on guard. It was five feet in diameter and 90 feet tall. It was a 100 year old tree that was blown over in a hurricane. I was relieved to learn that they didn't cut such a majestic tree down.
West side.
Allen Hollis (A) aka Lost River (10:46am)
I think it is time that I disclose that the Lost River experience we had was not my favorite. I might be a little biased...
We went to the Lost River after the Flume because we were in that area. This is the second time that we have had to pay to see a bridge, but it is still not clear if we had to pay to view the Allen Hollis. (Thanks, super informed Lost River employees.)
We first stopped in the gift shop to see if there were any covered bridge postcards. We found one. To my dismay, when I went to pay for the postcard the lady said, "Where did you find this? We have other postcards."
She tried to talk me out of a covered bridge postcard! Be proud of your bridges, Lost River.
We then went to inquire about the location of the bridge, because we didn't have all day! The teenager behind the counter said, and I quote, "There's a bridge here?"
Seriously, Lost River?
Well, we paid and went through the Lost River. It was a lot like the Flume, only there were more tourists, and it wasn't as spectacular. There were caves, though. Many caves.
I might not be being fair. After all, we did have a peaceful morning exploring the Flume by ourselves. It was so special that anything would pale in comparison. At the end of the day, I do not recommend doing the Flume and Lost River on the same day.
Plus, the Lost River stamps your hands. Is that necessary? It's not a night club.
Wait, there are stairs at Lost River?
As much as I complain about the Lost River organization, not a bad view.
Go New Hampshire!
The Allen Hollis Bridge
This is the sign that we passed after the Lost River and before the bridge/ exit. Thanks, teenager. You can see the bridge for free....without being prosecuted.
This one reminded me of the Sentinel Pine. Maybe New Hampshire needs to give it a little official number love.
It's not the bridge's fault that the Lost River employees don't appreciate it.
Isn't this awesome? I do love a good truss carving.
It was built in 1981. Too young for a number?
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