Kissing Bridge & Wishing Bridge
Romance and wishes have a special place on the Hartland Covered Bridge! Did you know why covered bridges like ours are sometimes called Kissing Bridges? Back in the horse-and-buggy days, young romantics found a clever way to snag a smooch from their sweethearts. With a little “training,” young men would teach their horses to stop right in the middle of the bridge—just long enough to sneak a kiss!
Meanwhile, back in town, parents were left scratching their heads, wondering why their horses seemed to take these “romantic pauses” on every trip across the bridge! Eventually, the jig was up, and the bridge earned its endearing nickname.
The bridge is also known as a Wishing Bridge. Visitors are invited to make a wish as they enter: close your eyes, cross your fingers, hold your breath—and be sure you’re not the driver! If you can hold your breath for the entire 1,282-foot length of the bridge, your wish is said to come true. Some visitors simply enjoy the challenge of crossing the world’s longest covered bridge in one big breath, a tradition nearly as old as the bridge itself.
Today, as you walk or drive across, imagine the countless love stories and wishes that have traveled this bridge, making it a truly magical spot in the heart of our community.