Chiselville Covered Bridge - Image 1
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Chiselville Covered Bridge

4.7
·95 reviews·Sunderland, United States

Step back in time at the Chiselville Covered Bridge, a 1870 lattice truss marvel with a quirky 'One Dollar Fine' sign.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Chiselville Covered Bridge - Image 1

Chiselville Covered Bridge

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time at the Chiselville Covered Bridge, a 1870 lattice truss marvel with a quirky 'One Dollar Fine' sign.

4.7
(95 reviews)

"A beautiful example. The sound of the rushing water below amplified inside was quite unique."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Park Smart

A small parking lot is available, fitting about 6-7 cars. Arrive early to secure a spot.

📸 Perfect Photo Ops

The bridge is a photographer's dream, especially with the river below. Golden hour light is magical.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Lattice Truss

Historic Lattice Truss

Main span

Experience a piece of Vermont history in this 1870 lattice truss bridge, a true architectural gem.

The "One Dollar Fine" Sign

The "One Dollar Fine" Sign

Bridge entrance

A charming, hand-painted sign warns against speeding, adding a touch of old-world character.

River Views & Sounds

River Views & Sounds

Beneath the bridge

The Roaring Branch River flows beneath, its sounds amplified inside the covered structure.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

Chiselville Covered Bridge is a year-round attraction, but consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and stunning natural beauty. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends.

Capturing the Charm

This historic bridge offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially with the Roaring Branch River below. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the picturesque setting.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Autumn foliage backdrop
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Built in 1870 and soaring nearly 40 feet above the Roaring Branch River, the Chiselville Covered Bridge is a scenic slice of Vermont history. It even made a cameo in the 1987 film Baby Boom! One of its most charming features is the hand-painted warning above the entrance: “One Dollar Fine For Driving Faster Than A Walk On This Bridge.” Find it just a short drive from Route 7 between Bennington...
vermont_explored
160 likes • 3.6K views

🚗 Park Smart

A small parking lot is available, fitting about 6-7 cars. Arrive early to secure a spot. Reddit

📸 Perfect Photo Ops

The bridge is a photographer's dream, especially with the river below. Golden hour light is magical. Instagram

🍁 Took a quick trip up to Vermont to see some fall foliage but I was a little early. I was able to see some colors in the trees but it wasn’t even near peak yet. I stopped at this covered bridge to get a few quick shots. 📍Chiselville Covered Bridge, Sunderland, VT 🎥 Shot on: @djiglobal #Mavic3Pro 💻 Edited with: @apple #finalcutpro . . . . #vermont #visitvt #vermontlife #vermontfall #thisisvt...
marylanddroneguy
109 likes • 2.4K views
125 Chiselville Road | Sunderland, VT $499,000 As you drive under the Chiselville Covered Bridge, you've transported back to the mid-1800s and seconds away from the 8.6-acre property that was once part of a small village known for its Chiselworks and manufacture of Douglass Chisels. The house, with 4 bedrooms and 4 baths, was built in 1880, and the property includes a detached 2 car garage with ...
vtsalesgroup
0 likes • 310 views

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby

A hiking trail runs alongside the bridge, offering more scenic views and a chance to stretch your legs. Reddit

📜 Historic Charm

Don't miss the unique 'One Dollar Fine' sign at the entrance – a quirky piece of history! Instagram

Chiselville Covered Bridge, 2022. Graphite pencil on Rives BFK paper. Image size: 17x11 in. Paper size: 19x13 in. #techspressionism #axidraw #plotterart
colingoldberg
39 likes • 1.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Park Smart

A small parking lot is available, fitting about 6-7 cars. Arrive early to secure a spot. Reddit

📸 Perfect Photo Ops

The bridge is a photographer's dream, especially with the river below. Golden hour light is magical. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby

A hiking trail runs alongside the bridge, offering more scenic views and a chance to stretch your legs. Reddit

📜 Historic Charm

Don't miss the unique 'One Dollar Fine' sign at the entrance – a quirky piece of history! Instagram

🏍️ Motorcycle Ride Stop

A popular stop for motorcycle enthusiasts, offering a scenic break on a ride. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(95 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Chiselville Covered Bridge as a beautiful and historic Vermont landmark. Its picturesque setting, unique 'One Dollar Fine' sign, and the amplified sound of the river are frequently highlighted as charming features. While some find driving over it a bit nerve-wracking, most agree it's a must-see for its historical significance and scenic appeal.

"A beautiful example. The sound of the rushing water below amplified inside was quite unique."

David Moakes

"Another great covered bridge to add to your list of VT covered bridges to drive to and through.

Make a day out of it and check this one off the list.

Good for any season.

Check out reviews for other VT covered bridges."

charlie mathland

"Beautiful covered bridge, set in the woods with a hiking trail next to it. A small parking lot is there, maybe 6 or 7 cars."

Timothy McMullen

What People Like

Beautiful historic structure
Unique 'One Dollar Fine' sign
Scenic river setting

What People Dislike

Small parking lot

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The bridge is located at 125 Chiselville Road in Sunderland, VT. It's accessible by car, with a small parking area nearby. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's a well-known landmark. Follow signs for Chiselville Road, and you'll find the bridge and its parking area. Reddit

Yes, you can drive over the bridge, but remember the historic 'One Dollar Fine' sign encourages a slower pace! InstagramReddit

Driving is the most common method. There's a small parking lot, so consider visiting during off-peak hours. Reddit

Public transport is limited in this rural area. Driving is highly recommended for easy access.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, admission to Chiselville Covered Bridge is free. It's a public landmark for everyone to enjoy. Reddit

The bridge is accessible 24/7, as it's an outdoor public space. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience.

There is no entrance fee to visit or cross the Chiselville Covered Bridge. Reddit

Yes, the bridge is accessible year-round. Winter visits offer a unique, snow-dusted perspective, though road conditions should be checked. Reddit

The main restriction is to drive slowly and respect the historic nature of the bridge. No specific visiting hours or booking required. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the best light for capturing the bridge's charm. Weekdays also mean fewer people in your shots. Instagram

You can capture the bridge's exterior, interior details, the 'One Dollar Fine' sign, and the surrounding natural scenery with the river. Instagram+1

While not explicitly prohibited, it's always best to check local regulations regarding drone usage near historic sites and waterways. Instagram mentions drone use.

Absolutely! Artists have even created plotter art inspired by the bridge, showcasing its unique structure. Instagram

A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens is great. A wide-angle lens can capture the full bridge, while a telephoto can focus on details. Instagram used a DJI Mavic 3 Pro.

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can walk or drive across the bridge, enjoy the sounds of the river, take photos, and explore the nearby hiking trail. Reddit

Yes, the bridge is structurally sound and safe for walking and driving. It's a well-maintained historic structure. Reddit

Restroom facilities are not typically available directly at the bridge. Plan accordingly before your visit.

Built in 1870, it's a classic example of a lattice truss covered bridge and was once near a village known for chisel manufacturing. Instagram+1

While there are no designated picnic areas, you can find scenic spots nearby to enjoy a quiet moment. Remember to pack out all trash.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Chiselville Covered Bridge offers a simple yet engaging stop for families. Kids will be fascinated by the "One Dollar Fine" sign and the experience of driving or walking through a historic covered bridge. Instagram The nearby hiking trail provides a chance for little legs to explore nature, and the sound of the Roaring Branch River is always a hit. Reddit Pack some snacks, as amenities are limited, and enjoy a peaceful moment connecting with Vermont's past.

🏍️ Motorcycle & Road Trip Enthusiasts

This bridge is a classic stop for any scenic road trip, especially for motorcycle riders. It's a picturesque landmark that breaks up a journey beautifully. Instagram The easy access and the charm of the historic structure make it a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to stretch your legs. Many riders make it a point to include Chiselville Covered Bridge on their Vermont tours. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

The Chiselville Covered Bridge, constructed in 1870, stands as a testament to 19th-century engineering. Its lattice truss design is a classic example of the era, built to protect the wooden structure from the elements and extend its lifespan. The bridge spans the Roaring Branch River, and the acoustics inside are noted to amplify the sound of the rushing water, creating a unique sensory experience for visitors. InstagramReddit

Interestingly, the area around the bridge was once part of a small village known for its chisel works, hence the name 'Chiselville'. This historical connection adds another layer of intrigue to the site. The bridge even made a brief appearance in the 1987 film Baby Boom, further cementing its place in popular culture. Instagram

Visitors often remark on the hand-painted warning sign at the entrance, which humorously states, "One Dollar Fine For Driving Faster Than A Walk On This Bridge." This quirky detail adds to the bridge's charm and serves as a reminder of its past. InstagramReddit

Photography Tips for the Perfect Shot

Chiselville Covered Bridge is a photographer's delight, offering numerous angles and moods throughout the day and seasons. For the most dramatic shots, aim for the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon. The soft, warm light beautifully illuminates the wooden structure and its surroundings. Instagram

Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the entire bridge in its scenic setting, including the river below. For more intimate shots, a telephoto lens can focus on the intricate details of the lattice work or the iconic 'One Dollar Fine' sign. Instagram+1 Many visitors find the sound of the river amplified within the bridge to be a unique element to capture, either visually or through video. Reddit

Remember that the parking area is small, so visiting on a weekday or during off-peak hours will give you more freedom to set up your shots without crowds. Reddit While drones can offer unique perspectives, always be mindful of local regulations and respect the peaceful nature of the site. Instagram

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