33 Beautiful Historic Covered Bridges in Vermont

Vermont, a picturesque state in New England, is home to over 100 unique historic covered bridges that add some intrigue to a New England road trip. While some bridges are a bit neglected, many of Vermont’s covered bridges are in excellent condition, having been restored or rebuilt and are now protected on the register of National Historic Places. If you love architecture or engineering, you’ll enjoy seeing how these wooden covered bridges were built and the history behind them. 

Vermont’s covered bridges are a significant part of the state’s cultural and architectural heritage and attract tourists and photographers from around the world. They often serve as charming landmarks and symbols of the past. Some are still working bridges, while others have retired from automobile traffic but are still open to the public. Most bridges have parking areas or small pull overs while some have plaques highlighting the bridge’s history.

I have visited all of the bridges in this post (and then some) and tailored this list of the best-covered bridges in Vermont for easy driving tours, highlighting the bridges I think are the most interesting and picturesque, grouping them according to their proximity to each other.

Wether it is their history, location or charming architecture, these bridges are a fun way to discover Vermont, especially in fall, as many bridges are flanked with colorful fall leaves come autumn.

If you’re planning a road trip through Vermont, be sure to include some of these stunning covered bridges in your itinerary.

Here are some of the best-covered bridges in Vermont.

West Hill Covered Bridge (Crystal Springs Bridge)

The West Hill Covered Bridge, also known as the Crystal Springs Covered Bridge is a wooden covered bridge that crosses West Hill Brook in Montgomery, Vermont on Creamery Bridge Road. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. The bridge is of Town lattice design, built by Sheldon & Savannah Jewett – brothers who built several bridges in the area. Although not officially cited, this bridge also goes by the name of “Creamery Covered Bridge” due to a creamery adjacent to the bridge site. Remains of the creamery are still visible in the woods next to the bridge. It is off an unpaved packed gravel back road tucked among the trees.

Hutchins Covered Bridge

One of three covered bridges that crosses the Trout River in Montgomery, is the wooden Hutchins bridge. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974, and was originally built in 1883. Brothers Sheldon & Savannah Jewett built the bridge along with many other covered bridges in the area.

Comstock Covered Bridge

The Comstock Covered Bridge is a single-span structure with a lattice truss design that crosses the Trout River in Montgomery, Vermont on Comstock Bridge Road. The lattice truss, often referred to as a “Town Lattice” truss, is a distinctive crisscross pattern of wooden beams that provide structural support to the bridge. It was originally built in 1883, by Sheldon & Savannah Jewett and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. There are a few areas to pull over and take photos along the road for views of the face and the bridge’s side view over the river.

Additional Bridges in the Area

• Hopkins
• Longely
• Fuller Covered Bridge

Red Bridge

The Red Covered Bridge in Morristown, Vermont, is a historic 19th-century queen post truss design bridge on Cole Hill Road across Sterling Brook. It made the list of the National Register of Historic Places in 1974 and is the town’s only surviving 19th-century covered bridge. There are some small areas to pull over on the side of the road but traffic is frequent so go early to have the area to yourself.

Emily’s Bridge or Gold Brook Covered Bridge

Located in Stowe, along Covered Bridge Road, Emily’s Bridge, also known as the Gold Brook Covered Bridge, is famous for its spooky legend. In the 1800s, early on in the bridge’s history, a woman named Emily planned to elope with her lover. They planned to meet at this bridge, but when he stood her up, she hanged herself from the rafters out of despair. 

Despite its eerie reputation, Emily’s Bridge remains a beautiful and historical site worth exploring. Some locals have claimed to witness ghost sightings of Emily, but you’ll have to visit for yourself to experience the supernatural activity at this covered bridge! There is a good size parking area for about 6 cars. This one is in Stowe so go early to avoid the crowds if your are visiting Stowe in the Fall.

Village Covered Bridge (Church Street Covered Bridge)

The Church Street Covered Bridge, also called the Village Covered Bridge, crosses the North Branch of the Lamoille River in Waterville, Vermont. It is a single-span queen post truss design, meaning it uses two supporting beams. It was built in 1877 and completely rebuilt in 2000. This historic Vermont bridge is reached through a canopy of trees that bloom with color during fall.

There is also a local Maple stand at the red house right behind the bridge. The owners are very friendly and offered their yard to get closer for photos.

Powerhouse Covered Bridge (School Street Bridge)

The Power House Covered Bridge in Johnson, also known as the School Street Covered Bridge, is a historic Vermont covered bridge built in 1870 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. In 2000 its walls fell into the river below after a heavy snow. Luckily its deck had been reinforced with steel beams years earlier and it survived the treacherous weather. The walls and roof were reconstructed and the covered bridge reopened in 2002. This one is right off of a busy connector road but does have a pull over area to safely stop for photos.

Additional Bridges in the Area

• Jaynes (Waterville)
• Montgomery (Waterville)
• Grist Mill (Jeffersonville)
• Scribner (Johnston)

Waitsfield Covered Bridge (Great Eddy, Village Bridge)

Also known as the Great Eddy or Big Eddy, Waitsfield Covered Bridge is the oldest covered bridge in Vermont, and one of the most unique. Surrounded by a stunning valley, the view from the water looks like it was taken directly from a postcard. I love the covered walking lane attached to this bridge and the landscape view of the entire bridge from the water.

Many visitors visiting this bridge during the summer jump into the 12-foot water below. Obviously, this is a bit dangerous, so jump at your own risk! You can also use the footpath near town to safely walk down to the river banks below and cool off in the refreshing water.

Slaughterhouse Covered Bridge

While this bridge may have a gruesome name, don’t let it fool you! This wooden covered bridge leads Slaughterhouse Road across the Dog River near Northfield, Vermont. 

As only one of five surviving 19th-century bridges in this town, this bridge helps represent one of the highest concentrations of these historic structures in Vermont. Although in need of a few repairs, the red exterior and lush surroundings make this area especially picturesque. There is a walkway down to the river below (see it in the photo above to the Right) and large enough road to safely pull over.

Stony Brook Covered Bridge (Moseley Bridge)

Constructed in the late 19th century, this bridge is only one out of two of Vermont’s surviving king post truss bridges from the 1800s. This bridge is located south of Northfield Falls on a quiet country road.

Also known as the Moseley Covered Bridge, the Stony Brook Covered Bridge crosses Stony Brook in Northfield, Vermont. This wooden covered bridge is more secluded than the others on this list, and it is very similar in looks to the Northfield bridges, so it is one you could skip if you are not interested in seeing the kingpost truss design. Its location on a quiet dirt road makes it easy to snap a few photos. Its pretty in the summer with its red color set against the green foliage but I bet it would be even better during a fall trip to Vermont.

Additional Bridges in the Area

• Upper Cox Brook (Northfield)
• Lower Cox Brook Covered Bridge (Northfield)
• Northfield Falls (Station Covered Bridge) (Northfield)
• Pine Brook (Waitsfield)

Lincoln Covered Bridge

The Lincoln Covered Bridge in West Woodstock, Vermont, is a marvel of engineering and history. Spanning the scenic Ottauquechee River, the single-span bridge measures 136 feet long and is 18.5 feet wide, providing a one-lane roadway connecting U.S. Route 4 to Bridges Road and Fletcher Hill Road. Built during 1877 by R.W. Pinney and B.H. Pinney, this remarkable covered bridge is one of the only known examples of a wooden Pratt truss bridge in the United States.

The Lincoln Covered Bridge is unique because it uses the Pratt truss design, which is more commonly seen in metal bridges built later. The ingenious design features laminated arches that support the bridge’s deck through a combination of wooden and iron verticals, with iron cross bracing providing additional stability. In 1989, the Vermont Agency of Transportation completed a rehabilitation project to restore the bridge to its original condition and improve its load-carrying capacity, ensuring its safe use by emergency vehicles.

During the restoration process, great care was taken to use materials and details as close to the original as possible. Structural upgrades, like the addition of high-strength coated steel beams, were hidden from view by the wooden siding, preserving the bridge’s historic look. Additionally, skylights were added to the metal roof, allowing natural light to illuminate the structure due to its long span.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973, the bridge continues to be an essential part of the Vermont landscape and a beloved landmark for both locals and visitors, making it one of the best covered bridges in Vermont.

Middle Bridge 

Located in the charming small town of Woodstock, this 139-foot-long covered bridge spans the Ottauquechee River, features a town lattice design and is impeccably restored. Initially constructed in 1889 and replaced in 1969, the Middle Bridge remains a popular site to explore.

This bridge has a separate pedestrian walkway with a lovely location on a quiet street, making it perfect for taking pictures. In fact, it’s likely one of the most photographed and most famous covered bridges in the area, so bring your camera!

Taftsville Covered Bridge

This striking red bridge, spanning 189 feet, is one of the oldest covered bridges in Vermont and the United States!

Located in the quaint village of Taftsville near Woodstock, Vermont, the Taftsville Covered Bridge spans the Ottauquechee River, and was first built in 1836. With a modified multiple kingpost truss design with arches, this bridge’s design was influenced by Swiss tradition. For architecture enthusiasts, this is one of the best covered bridges in Vermont.

Quechee Covered Bridge

Situated on Waterman Hill Road in Quechee, Vermont, this famous bridge was constructed in 1970 and has since been rebuilt after damage from Tropical Storm Irene in 2011. While the original bridge spanned about 70 feet, the reconstructed bridge was lengthened to 85 feet to reduce the risk of flood damage.

On the east side of this two-lane bridge, you’ll see some large rocks leading down to a scenic gorge. With a pedestrian walkway and picturesque views of the surrounding area, a visit to Quechee Covered Bridge is a must for any Vermont road trip.

Kissing Bridge

Found outside of Rockingham, Vermont, next to the Vermont Country Store (about 14 square miles from the Connecticut River), the Kissing Bridge is a historic structure dating back to 1872. 

According to local lore, the bridge’s name originates from the tradition of young couples meeting at this bridge for a stolen kiss. Today, many continue this romantic tradition during their visits to the Kissing Bridge. In fact, couples who visit this store are encouraged to do so, making this one of the best covered bridges in Vermont apart of a romantic getaway.

Bartonsville Covered Bridge

Just down the road from the Kissing Bridge (and the Vermont Country Store) is the Bartonsville Covered Bridge. This bridge was completely rebuilt in 2012 after flash flooding from Hurricane Irene in 2011 destroyed the original structure built in 1870. It carries Lower Bartonsville Road over the Williams River in the village of Bartonsville, in Rockingham, Vermont. Its location along a quaint town road with space to park, the wooden structure, green roof, and lattice truss design give it a rustic feel perfect for photos.

Additional Bridges in the Area

• Worrall Covered Bridge (in 2023 this bridge was damaged by flooding)
• Hall Covered bridge (Bellow Falls-Rockingham)

Willard Covered Bridges

What is unique about the Willard covered bridges is that there are two of them. They are perched above the Ottauquechee River along Mill Rd. in Hartland, Vermont. The historic Willard Covered Bridge is the eastern of the two covered bridges built in 1870, and named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. The other one was built in 2001. The historic bridge is a single-span town lattice truss 123 ft in length and is one of only two surviving 19th-century bridges in Hartland, Vermont. There is a power plant on the corner of Mill Rd. and obstruction, creating a gushing waterfall under the bridges. There is a tiny parking spot on the island connecting the two bridges if you want to pull over quickly to snap a few photos, but the best views are from above with a drone.

The Bowers Bridge

The Bowers Covered Bridge is a historic covered bridge carrying Bible Hill Road across Mill Brook in the Brownsville section of West Windsor, Vermont. Built in 1919, it has a laminated-arch deck covered by a post-and-beam superstructure, similar to Best Covered Bridge, Windsor’s other historic covered bridge.

Cornish-Windsor Bridge

The 156 year old Cornish-Windsor Bridge sits over the Connecticut River, connecting the towns of Cornish, New Hampshire, and Windsor, Vermont. Until 2008, this had been the longest wooden covered bridge in the United States.

Constructed in 1866, this 449-foot-long town lattice-truss bridge allows you to straddle two states while taking in the scenic surroundings, making this one of the best covered bridges in Vermont. There is a parking area on the New Hampshire side and a quirky sign for passerbys.

A Mill Brook Covered Bridge (private bridge)

This covered bridge is a bit of a hidden gem and was a complete surprise as I drove down Vermont 106 along Mill Creek. It does not have an official name in Google Maps, but I tagged it as 43°28’56.3″N 72°33’05.4″W in Google maps. I loved the wreath on this covered bridge and its curved shape. There is plenty of room to pull over on the side of the road, but don’t drive through it, as it looks like the driveway to a private residence.

Additional Bridges in the Area

• Martins Mill (Hartland)
• Best Covered Bridge (Windsor)

Miller’s Run Covered Bridge

One of five covered bridges near the Lyndon area, Miller’s Run Bridge is located in Lyndon Center, Vermont. Initially built in 1878 as a “new style” bridge, it was updated for safety in 1995 after a few fatal accidents and now has a modern pedestrian walkway. I love the look of this open white wooden bridge. It gets a wreath at Christmas time and is surrounded in colorful foliage during fall. Park at the park and ride lot along Center Street and Route 122 and walk to the bridge for photos.

Chamberlin Mill

The Chamberlin Mill Covered Bridge, also called the Whitcomb Covered Bridge, is located close to Miller’s run in Lyndon, Vermont and was likely build around 1880. There are several bridges in the area with a similar single-span queenpost truss design. This historic bridge looks a little different, with partially opened sides and a whitewashed roof but the best views are from above (with a drone) or from the river banks below with a view of the flowing waterfalls.

There is a generous parking area on one side of the bridge but getting to the river bank is very tricky and not recommended because the easiest route is on private property. I only got this photo from below because I drove my drone into a tree and asked the neighboor if I could use his yard to try and recover it. Unfortunately it is still in the tree with the memory card full of fall photos including the ones from this bridge. With a miracle it will fall from the tree and the super helpful neighbor will be able to recover the memory card and get it back to me!

The Randall-Burrington Covered Bridge

This historic 19th century bridge is also in a single-span queenpost truss design and spans the Passumpsic River. Although a bit rundown, it has a cool vibe with its open sides and red face. The original bridge is no longer in use, as a modern bridge was built next to it for automobiles. Foot traffic is still allowed on the historic bridge. You’ll have to walk up to it through a sometimes overgrown field but its rustic looking red roof and vintage name sign gives it some character, perfect for photos.

Additional Bridges in the Area

• Center Covered Bridge (Lyndonville)
• Old Schoolhouse Covered Bridge (Lyndonville)
• Greenbacks Hollow Covered Bridge (Danville)

Pulp Mill Bridge

The Pulp Mill Covered Bridge, affectionately known as the Paper Mill Covered Bridge (not to be confused with the other Paper Mill Bridge), is a charming wooden bridge that stretches across Otter Creek, connecting the towns of Middlebury and Weybridge in Vermont. Not only is this iconic structure listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974, but it also holds several distinctions that make it truly unique.

Featuring a Burr arch design that was modified around 1860 with laminated arches and king post trusses, the Pulp Mill Covered Bridge is one of only seven double-barreled (two-lane) covered bridges in the country. Furthermore, it is one of only two in the state of Vermont, with the other being the Museum Covered Bridge. The Pulp Mill Covered Bridge is the only covered bridge in Vermont that still carries regular traffic.

While the exact age of this historic bridge is uncertain, it is believed to have been built between 1808 and 1820, making it one of the oldest covered bridges in the country. The bridge has undergone numerous improvements and repairs over the years to maintain its structural integrity and accommodate heavy use. In 2012, it underwent significant rehabilitation, including adding two piers in the creek and constructing a pedestrian walkway on the outside of the bridge. 

Today, the Pulp Mill Covered Bridge is a testament to Vermont’s rich history and architectural ingenuity, serving as a beloved landmark for locals and tourists alike.

Hammond Covered Bridge

I love the quirky history of this historic Vermont covered bridge. Hammond Bridge was built in 1842 as a Town lattice structure spanning Otter Creek in Pittsford, Vermont. In 1927, it was swept into the river and carried downstream over 1.5 miles. The intact bridge was returned to its original location and became known as “the bridge that went on a voyage.”

The bridge is now closed to traffic but can be visited on foot. You can walk the length of it, admiring the restored interior. The best view of the entire 139-foot-long bridge is from the river bank.

Cooley

The still functioning Cooley Covered Bridge, in the village of Pittsford, Vermont carries Elm Street across Furnace Brook. Nicholas M. Powers built the bridge in 1849 using a single-span Town lattice truss structure. Powers was a local known for his covered bridge-building skills, often referenced as the best in the state.

It is a charming red exterior and beautifully restored interior make it one of the best covered bridges in Vermont.

Additional Bridges in the Area

• Gorham Covered Bridge (Pittsford)
• Depot Covered Bridge (Pittsford)
• Brown Covered Bridge (Shrewsbury)

Chiselville Covered Bridge

Nestled in the quaint town of Sunderland, Vermont, the Chiselville Covered Bridge is a nod to the rich history and craftsmanship of the area. Constructed in 1870 by Daniel Oatman, this bridge spans the Roaring Branch of the Batten Kill on Sunderland Hill Road and was named after a nearby chisel factory. The bridge’s town lattice truss design makes it visually striking and incredibly sturdy, as evidenced by its survival during the devastating floods of November 1927 that claimed many covered bridges across Vermont.

One of the most notable aspects of the Chiselville Covered Bridge is its impressive height. Perched roughly 40 feet above the Roaring Branch, the bridge has earned the nickname “High Bridge” and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. 

Beyond its architectural charm and historical significance, the Chiselville Covered Bridge has also enjoyed a moment in the spotlight, thanks to its appearance in the 1987 film Baby Boom. Movie buffs might recognize the picturesque bridge from the scene in which Diane Keaton’s character relocates from New York City to the fictional town of Hadleyville, Vermont, in search of a more tranquil existence.

Whether you’re cruising along scenic back roads, embarking on a tour of Bennington County’s many covered bridges, or simply seeking a serene spot to take in the beauty of Vermont’s countryside, the Chiselville Covered Bridge is a must-visit. Remember to adhere to the sign’s warning on the bridge: don’t drive faster than a walk across the bridge, or you could face a $1 fine!

Burt Henry Covered Bridge

The Burt Henry Covered Bridge is a charming, historic landmark nestled in the northwestern part of Bennington, Vermont. The bridge elegantly spans the Walloomsac River, providing a picturesque backdrop for photographers and nature enthusiasts. As you pass the historic Henry House just south of the bridge, you can feel the region’s rich history.

Constructed with a single-span Town lattice truss design, the Burt Henry Covered Bridge measures 121 feet in length and 18.5 feet in width. Its roadway boasts a width of 15 feet, making it suitable for one modern travel lane. 

The bridge was originally built around 1840, with various modifications applied throughout its history. At one point, an effort was made to strengthen the bridge by doubling the trusses to accommodate heavy trucks. However, this proved ineffective and was eventually reversed. In 1989, the bridge underwent a complete reconstruction, ensuring its longevity for future visitors to admire and appreciate. 

Paper Mill Bridge

Located in Bennington, Paper Mill Village Bridge spans the Walloomsac River. Also known as the Bennington Falls Covered Bridge, this wooden bridge was built in 1889 and is adjacent to a former Paper Mill building. 

With a length of 125 feet and a width of 18.5 feet, this is the longest covered bridge in Bennington County. It is similar in design to the nearby Silk Covered Bridge, and is a beautiful example of Vermont’s covered bridge history. There is an area for parking and a nature trail on site.

Silk Road Covered Bridge

Located in Bennington, the Silk Road Covered Bridge is one of the prettiest covered bridges in Vermont. It was first constructed in 1840 by Benjamin Sears and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. This red bridge with open windows leads Silk Road across the Walloomsac River, between North Bennington and downtown Bennington, Vermont. 

West Dummerston Covered Bridge

As the longest covered bridge entirely within Vermont at a length of 280 feet, West Dummerston Covered Bridge is an impressive sight and one of my favorite Vermont covered bridges! This bridge was first built in 1872 by master builder Caleb Lamson, and is the only known surviving piece of his work. In 1973 this bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places. 

Located in southern Vermont, the West Dummerston Covered Bridge crosses over the West River. As only one of five surviving 19th-century bridges in this town, this bridge helps represent one of the highest concentrations of these historic structures in Vermont. The red exterior and lush surroundings make this area especially picturesque. There is ample parking at the park and ride lot next to the bridge and stairs leading down to the river bank allowing for another incredible view of this impressive bridge and its surrounding areas.

Creamery Covered Bridge

I saved the best for last. This is my favorite bridge in Vermont for a number of reasons. Its picturesque red body and attached covered walkway make it stand out. It is no longer in use, and its location in a memorial park makes taking the perfect picture a painless experience- no cars to dodge here. There is even a generous lot to park in behind the bridge. Built in 1879, it is Brattleboro’s last surviving 19th-century covered bridge. 

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If you really love covered bridges, consider heading to New Hampshire for another covered bridge road trip. New Hampshire offers some beautifully restored historic bridges (some of the best in my opinion) with different exterior designs, in small towns set against the Green Mountains. I found New Hampshire to have more variety when it comes to the look and style of covered bridges, and almost all of them are so well-maintained.

No matter where you covered bridge road trip leads you I hope you have a memorable experience and don’t lose a drone to the trees!