These 8 Vermont Covered Bridges Take On A Quiet, Rustic Beauty Every November
One old wooden bridge in this lineup still posts a sign warning drivers to cross no faster than a walk. A fine is on the line, and I love that the rule has outlived the horses it was written for.
That sign is only one surprise. Another bridge on this list dates to 1836.
A third comes with a ghost story about a woman named Emily, and people still argue about it.
November in Vermont is a different show than early October. The leaf crowds thin out, and the last copper and gold leaves hang on against barn-red siding and gray river rock.
I can’t think of a better time to slow down and actually look around.
So which bridges are worth the drive when the woods turn rusty and quiet? I have eight favorites, and a couple of them might surprise you.
1. Historic Taftsville Covered Bridge
Built in 1836, this red beauty was already old when your great-great-grandparents were kids. It ranks among the oldest covered bridges in Vermont, and it still lets you drive right through.
The bridge stretches 189 feet over the Ottauquechee River in the village of Taftsville. Solomon Emmons III built it using a modified multiple kingpost truss with semi-independent arches.
That design is a big deal to bridge fans. It comes from an older craftsman tradition, before builders leaned on patented truss plans.
History got rough here in 2011. Tropical Storm Irene badly damaged the bridge, but crews saved the original trusses during the 2013 rebuild.
So when you roll across those boards, you are riding on timber shaped nearly two centuries ago. Pretty cool for a quick detour, right?
November makes the red siding pop. The fading leaves along the riverbank give you a softer, moodier backdrop than the peak-season crowds ever get.
You have options for the best view. Steps lead down toward the river, where a small waterfall adds some splash to your photos.
A picnic bench sits nearby too. Pack a thermos of cider and a sandwich, and you have a simple lunch with a historic view.
Parking is easy, with a free spot right before the bridge. The site stays open around the clock, so early risers can catch morning mist on the water.
Weekend afternoons tend to get busier. If you want the place mostly to yourself, aim for an early morning or a weekday evening.
Kids usually love spotting the waterfall from below. Bring a jacket, though, because November air near the river gets chilly fast.
Address: 403 E Woodstock Rd, Woodstock, VT 05091.
2. Historic Creamery Covered Bridge
Cars have to sit this one out. The Creamery Covered Bridge in Brattleboro is pedestrian-only, which means you can stroll, pause, and stare without anyone honking behind you.
The bridge dates to 1879. It sits just minutes from downtown Brattleboro, so it fits nicely into a day of wandering through town.
That close-to-town location is a sweet bonus in late fall. You can grab a snack downtown, then come here for a slow walk and some photos.
Flowers are part of the charm. A garden near the bridge adds color, and in early November any hardy blooms play nicely against the turning trees.
Photographers, take note. The well-preserved wooden structure makes a classic backdrop for family pictures, engagement shots, or a new profile photo.
Picnic tables give you a spot to sit and soak it in. On a crisp, sunny November afternoon, a blanket and a bag of apples feel just right.
Since walkers are the only traffic, families with little ones can relax a bit more here. Kids can explore the bridge without dodging cars.
Vermont is famous for its covered bridges, with dozens scattered across the state. This one stands out because it puts you right inside the structure at walking speed.
Take your time looking up at the beams. The craftsmanship is easier to appreciate when you are not rolling past in a car.
On-site parking makes the visit simple. You can pull in, wander for twenty minutes, and still have plenty of daylight left for other stops.
Plan for shorter days, though. November sunsets come early, so an afternoon visit gives you the best light on the old boards.
Address: 500 Western Ave, Brattleboro, VT 05301.
3. Historic Henry Covered Bridge
Bennington has a covered bridge trio, and Henry is the one with a picnic table waiting for you. It makes an easy first stop if you plan to see all three.
The bridge you see today was rebuilt. Even so, it keeps the old-time look that makes these structures feel like a peek into the past.
It spans the Walloomsac River on River Road in North Bennington. The setting is open and pretty, with the water moving right below.
In November, the riverbank trees shift into deep bronze and brown. Those late colors look fantastic against the bridge and its reflection in the water.
Outdoor fans get plenty to do here. The spot works as a starting point for a bike ride through the countryside around Bennington.
Anglers like it too. The river access makes it a handy place to cast a line, as long as you follow Vermont fishing rules.
Summer brings swimmers to the water. November is a different story, so maybe just dip a toe and call it brave.
Picnic tables near the stream are perfect for a fall lunch. Bring layers, a hot drink, and something sweet from a local bakery.
The site is open 24 hours a day. Mornings on Sunday tend to be calmer, while weekend afternoons draw more visitors.
Families will find the space roomy enough for kids to stretch their legs. Just keep an eye on little ones near the water.
Once you finish here, the other two Bennington bridges are close by. Turning it into a mini bridge tour is an easy win.
Address: 475 River Rd, North Bennington, VT 05257.
4. Historic Scott Covered Bridge
At about 277 feet, the Scott Covered Bridge is long enough to make you feel like you are crossing a small wooden tunnel. Better yet, you get to do it on foot.
Built in 1870, this bridge no longer carries cars. After a major restoration, it reopened to walkers in 2017, which makes it a relaxing place to cross at your own speed.
It is often described as the longest wooden span in Vermont. Whatever the record books say, it ranks among the largest covered bridges you can visit in the state.
The river views are the real treat. From inside, you get unique looks at the water flowing below through the openings.
Late fall changes the scene in a fun way. With fewer leaves on the trees, you can see more of the river and the shape of the land.
The remaining oak leaves often turn rusty brown in November. Those earthy shades suit the weathered wood of the bridge really well.
Covered bridge tour fans often name this one a highlight. It earns that spot thanks to its size and its well-maintained structure.
Since you can walk across, it is a great stop for kids who need a break from the car. The long span gives them plenty of room to wander.
The bridge stays open 24 hours a day. Saturday afternoons can get busier, while midweek visits are usually quieter.
Wear sturdy shoes, because old wooden floors can be uneven. Bring a camera with a wide lens if you want the full length in one shot.
Address: 3049 State Forest Rd, Townshend, VT 05353.
5. Historic Gold Brook Covered Bridge
Ghost stories and fall leaves go together like cider and donuts. Stowe’s Gold Brook Covered Bridge serves up both, thanks to its nickname, Emily’s Bridge.
Legend says a heartbroken woman named Emily haunts the bridge. Some versions claim she scratches cars or whispers above the brook below.
Is it true? That is up to you, but the story sure makes a November visit more fun when the woods get gray and quiet.
The real history is impressive on its own. John W.
Smith built the bridge in 1844 using wooden Howe trusses.
The outside wears vertical board siding, and the gable ends are walnut-stained. That darker wood looks great surrounded by golden and brown leaves.
Trees close in around the bridge, giving it a tucked-away feel. Late-season color here pairs beautifully with the rushing sound of Gold Brook.
You can find several viewpoints. One lets you walk down near the water for a postcard-style shot of the whole bridge.
Free parking is available in a lot and along the street. The bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.
Visit any time, since the site is open around the clock. Brave folks might try dusk, though daylight is better for photos.
Kids tend to love the Emily legend. Just keep the spooky details light if your crew scares easily.
Address: Covered Bridge Rd, Stowe, VT 05672.
6. Historic Waitsfield Covered Bridge
Some bridges hide in the woods, but Waitsfield parks its showpiece right in the middle of town. Locals and visitors alike know it as Big Eddy Bridge.
That nickname hints at the water below. In warmer months, the river here is a popular swimming spot, which tells you how much the town loves it.
November swaps swimsuits for sweaters. The river turns cold and clear, and the leftover leaves along the banks glow in late afternoon light.
A separate pedestrian walkway makes visiting easy. You can cross on foot while cars use the main lane, so nobody has to rush.
The village setting is the big perk. Shops and food stops sit close by, so the bridge fits right into a laid-back afternoon.
Think of it as a two-for-one outing. Grab a bite, browse a store or two, then wander over for photos.
The vibe stays fairly quiet, especially outside weekend afternoons. Friday and Saturday afternoons tend to be the busiest times.
It is also easy to find, which is great if you are new to the Mad River Valley. No winding dirt roads required for this one.
Photographers can try shooting from the walkway or near the river. Both angles show off the wooden structure against the late fall hills.
The bridge stays open around the clock. Kids can walk across safely on the separate path, which makes family visits simple.
Bring a hat and gloves. Even sunny November days in Vermont can feel nippy once the sun dips behind the hills.
Address: Bridge St, Waitsfield, VT 05673.
7. Historic Quechee Covered Bridge
Waterfall views come standard at the Quechee Covered Bridge. Stand nearby and you get rushing water, rocky ledges, and a wooden bridge all in one frame.
It’s younger than the others on this list, dating to 1970, and it was rebuilt in 2013 after Tropical Storm Irene.
Unlike the many red bridges in Vermont, this one wears brown. That earthy color blends right into the November landscape of bare branches and bronze leaves.
The water above the falls is calm and reflective. On a still day, the bridge and the trees seem to show up twice.
Rock formations add drama to the scene. The river tumbles over stone before it continues through the Quechee valley.
You are also close to Quechee Gorge, one of the state’s most famous natural sights. Pairing the two makes a great half-day trip.
The area around the bridge is fairly quiet. That calm setting makes it easier to stop, listen to the falls, and just breathe.
Parking options include free lots, free street spots, and a paid lot. That gives you flexibility depending on where you want to start.
Photography tip time. Try capturing the waterfall in the foreground with the bridge behind it for a classic shot.
November light hits low in the sky. Late morning or early afternoon usually works best before shadows fill the valley.
Kids enjoy watching the waterfall, but keep a close eye near the rocks. Wet stone gets slippery, especially in cold weather.
Even if you are just passing through, a short stop here pays off. It is one of those scenes that sticks with you.
Address: Waterman Hill Rd #4, Quechee, VT 05059.
8. Historic Chiselville Covered Bridge
Speed demons, beware. The Chiselville Covered Bridge still displays an old sign warning drivers they will be fined for crossing faster than a walk.
That quirky sign is part of the fun. It reminds you that these bridges were built for horses and wagons, not modern SUVs.
The bridge dates back to 1870. It has been well maintained, so it still looks like a true old-time Vermont covered bridge.
You can drive through it, which feels like a little time travel. Just follow the sign and take it nice and slow.
Prefer walking? The bridge also offers great chances to explore on foot and take in the details up close.
Woods surround the bridge, giving it a peaceful, out-of-the-way feel. In November, the forest turns into a quilt of gold, tan, and deep brown.
A hiking trail runs next to the bridge. It makes a great add-on if you want to stretch your legs after the drive.
Free parking is available in a nearby lot. That makes it easy to stop, grab photos, and hit the trail.
The site stays open 24 hours. Saturdays tend to be busier, while Wednesday mornings are often the calmest.
Families will like the mix of history and nature. Kids can read the old sign and guess how fast a walking horse really goes.
Wrap up your bridge tour here and you will finish on a charming note. Just remember, slow and steady wins this race.
Address: 412 Sunderland Hl Rd, Sunderland, VT 05250.