There are several things that are iconic to Vermont. Among them: maple syrup, fall foliage, and, of course, covered bridges. Covered bridges were once entirely utilitarian but are now perhaps most valued for their scenic qualities and history. Vermont has over 100 covered bridges–that’s more covered bridges per square mile than any other state.
Covered bridges became popular in the 19th century in Vermont. Why covered? The roof was not just more convenient for those crossing the bridge during weather, it also protected the bridge, itself. As bridges at the time were built primarily of wood, this extra protection helped them last longer. Between 1820 and 1904, numerous covered bridges were built throughout Vermont’s highway system. Many were lost in later years due to the expanding highway system and technological advances, but luckily a large number remain and Vermont has become invested in their preservation.
On my recent visit to Vermont, I couldn’t help but stop to get a closer look at all the covered bridges we passed. Today I’m sharing my three favorites, all within a few miles of Woodstock. Pictured: Middle Bridge in Woodstock (photo above), the Quechee Bridge (below), and the Taftsville Bridge (red bridge, top photo and below). Between Quechee and Woodstock, we criss-crossed each of these covered bridges. A covered bridge is an easy recipe for a scenic and historic view, and I couldn’t get enough of them.
Sources and Further Reading:
Check out this Google Maps overlay: all of the Vermont covered bridges, mapped!
Curious if your state/country has covered bridges? Head over to the Covered Bridge Map, where you can sort by state/country. Oregon, for example, actually has an impressive number of covered bridges.
This NPS site has some great history and information about Central Vermont.
Vermont Vacation on covered bridges.
It should come as no surprise that Architectural Digest’s list of the most idyllic covered bridges includes several from Vermont. (Okay, I’m planning some trips though. These pictures are amazing!)
Slightly off-topic but if you’re interested in maple syrup, head here. Vermont produced 2 million gallons of maple syrup in 2016!
Susie Trexler 
Maple syrup is never off topic 😉
This is such a beautiful post. Nice way to start a Monday, thank you very much. 🙂
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Definitely on the maple syrup, how could I not sneak it in? ☺️ Glad you enjoyed. I always love a good covered bridge!
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Count me a fan of covered bridges. Indiana is rich with them, mostly in Parke and Putnam Counties. But just a couple weeks ago I saw the oldest one in the state, in Brown County. I’ll post about it on my blog soon.
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Yes, I imagine Indiana would have a lot of covered bridges! I had fun looking at the covered bridge map for the rest of the country–I may have to go find some more. Looking forward to seeing your Indiana bridge views!
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They are gorgeous. I have painted a couple of them (fictional). Something so indigenous to American history. And they look to be well maintained too.
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Thanks! These would definitely be a great painting subject. And, you’re right–so quintessentially American (New England particularly!).
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[…] 2. One benefit of Chicago is being so close to the East Coast. I had fun getting back to Vermont this fall (I worked there after I graduated college!) and look forward to more trips. Check out my two Vermont posts: Views of Vermont and Covered Bridges. […]
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[…] Covered Bridges featuring three covered bridges near Woodstock, Vermont […]
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