Vermont is known for its charming covered bridges, which add a historic and scenic touch to the landscape. These bridges are popular for travelers interested in architecture, history, and photography. Many of them are well-preserved and still serve as functional parts of the local road system.
The best covered bridges in Vermont offer a glimpse into the state’s rich past while showcasing unique designs and natural beauty. Visiting these bridges provides an enjoyable way to explore Vermont’s countryside and learn about its heritage.
1) Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge
The Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge spans the Connecticut River, connecting Windsor, Vermont, and Cornish, New Hampshire. It was built in 1866 and is one of the longest wooden covered bridges in the United States. The bridge uses a timber lattice truss design and remains a key historic landmark.
Visitors can find detailed information about this bridge and others in Vermont’s collection of covered bridges on sites like Covered Bridges – Vermont Tourism.
2) Woodstock Middle Covered Bridge
The Woodstock Middle Covered Bridge was built in 1969 to replace an old iron bridge. It spans the Ottaquechee River near Woodstock’s village green. The bridge allows both vehicles and pedestrians, with a separate walkway for safety. It is known for its classic lattice truss design and scenic setting.
Learn more about this bridge at New England Explorer.
3) Pulp Mill Bridge, Middlebury
The Pulp Mill Bridge was built in 1820 and crosses Otter Creek in Middlebury. It is one of Vermont’s oldest covered bridges and one of only two double-lane covered bridges left in the state. The bridge remains open to regular traffic and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
More about this historic bridge can be found at Pulp Mill Covered Bridge – Wikipedia.
4) Babb’s Bridge, North Hartland
Babb’s Bridge is a well-preserved covered bridge in North Hartland. It crosses the Ottauquechee River and is known for its classic wooden design. Visitors often appreciate its peaceful setting and historic charm.
5) Bartonsville Covered Bridge
The Bartonsville Covered Bridge spans 151 feet over the Williams River in Rockingham, Vermont. It was rebuilt in 2012 after the original 1870 bridge, designed by Sanford Granger, was destroyed.
The bridge uses a lattice truss design and carries Lower Bartonsville Road. It has a natural wood finish and features windows along its length.
Learn more about this historic bridge here.
6) Quechee Covered Bridge
The Quechee Covered Bridge is located on Waterman Hill Road near Route 4. It was first built in 1911 as a railway bridge and later converted for road use in 1930. The bridge offers a pedestrian walkway, making it safe for visitors on foot.
The original bridge was damaged by Hurricane Irene in 2011 but was rebuilt to look nearly the same. It stands as a charming entry to the village of Quechee and the nearby gorge.
More details about this bridge can be found at the Quechee Covered Bridge travel guide.
7) West Dummerston Covered Bridge
The West Dummerston Covered Bridge spans the West River between Vermont Route 30 and Camp Arden Road. Built in 1872, it is Vermont’s longest covered bridge fully within the state, measuring 280 feet. It features a unique slate roof, rare among covered bridges in the U.S.
The bridge uses a town lattice design and rests on a central pier dividing two spans. It remains in good condition and is a key example of 19th-century bridge engineering in Vermont. Learn more about the West Dummerston Covered Bridge’s history and features. West Dummerston Covered Bridge
8) Taftsville Covered Bridge
The Taftsville Covered Bridge was built in 1836. It spans the Ottauquechee River in Woodstock, Vermont. This timber-framed bridge is one of the oldest covered bridges in the state and measures 189 feet long.
It survived damage from Hurricane Irene in 2011 but was repaired and reopened in 2013. The bright red color makes it a popular stop for visitors. Learn more about this historic bridge at the Taftsville Covered Bridge page.
9) Sandy Hill Covered Bridge
The Sandy Hill Covered Bridge is a small, historic bridge located in Vermont. It features a classic wooden design and well-preserved structure. Visitors often appreciate its peaceful rural setting and traditional craftsmanship.
