It’s easy to visit two National Park Service sites in two states in one day when in New England. This adventure also includes a historic covered bridge. I did this day trip from Saratoga Springs, New York, visiting Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park in New Hampshire and Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park in Vermont.

Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park in New Hampshire

My first stop was Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park. It’s the former home and studio of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, one of America’s most celebrated sculptors. More than 100 of his works are displayed throughout the galleries, studios and beautiful grounds.

I wandered past his sculptures of Abraham Lincoln and Admiral David Farragut, along with the powerful Shaw Memorial honoring Colonel Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment. I also walked across the meadow to the Ravine Studio before ending at Aspet, Saint-Gaudens’ historic home.

The mix of art, history and gardens made it a memorable stop. Buildings are opened Thursday-Monday Memorial Day Weekend through October 31st. I visited on a Wednesday and enjoyed the solitude of the serene place as the grounds are open sunrise to sunset.

Drive Across the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge

On my way back to Vermont, I drove across the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge spanning the Connecticut River. Built in 1866, the 460-foot bridge is considered the longest wooden covered bridge in the United States and the longest two-span covered bridge in the world.

It is also part of the Lafayette Trail. French General Marquis de Lafayette crossed a bridge at this location in 1825 while traveling toward Burlington, Vermont.

After driving through the bridge, I continued through Windsor and on toward Woodstock during a scenic 30-minute drive.

Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park in Vermont

I spent the afternoon at Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. The park preserves the legacy of George Perkins Marsh, Frederick Billings, and Laurence S. Rockefeller. These three men who helped shape conservation in America.

After walking around the mansion and exploring the terrace gardens, I headed into Mount Tom Forest. It is the nation’s oldest continuously managed scientific forest, with a conservation story stretching back more than 150 years.

I hiked Mountain Road to the Pogue, then followed the loop around the peaceful pond. My favorite moment was ducks rested on a log before slipping into the water one by one. Wildflowers, lily pads, and cattails swaying in the breeze added to the quiet scene.

Like Saint-Gaudens, the buildings are only open from Memorial Day Weekend through October 31st. The grounds are open year-round sunrise to sunset, including for snowshoeing and cross country skiing in winter.

Stay a Night in Woodstock

It’s a 2-hour drive back to Saratoga Springs. I found it to be an easy day while I was there for horse races. If you have extra time, spend the night in Woodstock. The classic New England village is worth more than a quick drive-through and makes a charming base for exploring more of Vermont. It’s fun to visit two National Park Service sites in two states in a day!