Great Eddy Covered Bridge Waitsfield
Step back in time at Vermont's oldest traffic-carrying covered bridge, a picturesque icon over the Mad River with fun river access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Great Eddy Covered Bridge Waitsfield
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Vermont's oldest traffic-carrying covered bridge, a picturesque icon over the Mad River with fun river access.
"Best bridge with a separate walkway for walking!"
🚶♀️ Walkway Wonders
Don't miss the separate pedestrian walkway for amazing views and photos!
🧺 Picnic by the River
Pack a lunch to enjoy by the Mad River, a local favorite spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Great Eddy Covered Bridge
Waitsfield, Vermont
Step back in time on Vermont's oldest surviving covered bridge, still carrying traffic. A picturesque icon of the Mad River Valley.
Mad River Access & Swimming
Adjacent to the bridge
Enjoy a refreshing dip in the Mad River, with spots for jumping from the bridge catwalk or cement ledges. Great for kids and dogs!
Pedestrian Walkway
East side of the bridge
A unique feature allowing walkers to stroll alongside traffic, offering great views and photo opportunities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walkway Wonders
Don't miss the separate pedestrian walkway for amazing views and photos!
🧺 Picnic by the River
Pack a lunch to enjoy by the Mad River, a local favorite spot.
📸 Capture the Charm
Ideal for artists and photographers, especially during golden hour.
🏊♀️ River Jumps
Brave the jumps from the bridge catwalk or ledges for a thrilling swim.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walkway Wonders
Don't miss the separate pedestrian walkway for amazing views and photos!
🧺 Picnic by the River
Pack a lunch to enjoy by the Mad River, a local favorite spot.
📸 Capture the Charm
Ideal for artists and photographers, especially during golden hour.
🏊♀️ River Jumps
Brave the jumps from the bridge catwalk or ledges for a thrilling swim.
🚗 Street Parking
Street parking is available, making it easy to access the bridge and village.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Great Eddy Covered Bridge, particularly its unique pedestrian walkway and the fun river access for swimming and jumping. It's praised as a picturesque and historic stop, offering a genuine taste of Vermont charm. Some find it a bit crowded during peak times, and while the bridge itself is historic, its modern reconstruction is noted.
"This was one our favorite covered bridge stops because it has the pedestrian walkway on the side. It's right on the east side of the village so we were able to park on the street and spend time walking past the shops and along the river."
Cordell Wabeke
"Pretty cool old covered bridge. Pretty unique structure recommend to visit if you in the area."
Mike Y
"Best bridge with a separate walkway for walking!"
Lee Doxtader
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Great Eddy Covered Bridge is located in Waitsfield, Vermont, easily accessible by car. It's situated on the east side of the village, making street parking convenient for visitors.
Yes, street parking is available near the bridge, allowing for easy access to both the bridge and the nearby shops and river.
Absolutely! The bridge offers a picturesque scene in winter, though access to the river for swimming would be limited.
The bridge has a pedestrian walkway on the side, which is generally accessible. However, the river access points for swimming may require some agility.
After visiting the bridge, take time to explore the charming shops and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Mad River Valley.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the Great Eddy Covered Bridge is free of charge. It's a public landmark for everyone to enjoy.
The bridge is always accessible as it's a public road and landmark. However, the surrounding natural areas and shops will have their own operating hours.
There is no admission fee for accessing the Mad River near the Great Eddy Covered Bridge. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Official tours are not typically offered for the bridge itself, but you can explore it at your own pace and enjoy the surrounding village.
While generally open, always be mindful of local regulations and respect the historic nature of the bridge.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk across the historic bridge, enjoy the pedestrian walkway, swim in the Mad River, have a picnic, and explore the nearby village shops.
Yes, it's a very photogenic spot, especially for capturing classic New England scenery and historic architecture.
Yes, the Mad River offers great swimming spots with ledges and opportunities for jumping from the bridge catwalk. It's a popular summer activity.
The Mad River area is generally dog-friendly, but always check local leash laws and ensure your pet is comfortable around water.
Built in 1833 and rebuilt in 1975, it's the oldest surviving covered bridge in Vermont still carrying traffic, offering a glimpse into the past.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Waitsfield village, located right by the bridge, offers several charming local eateries and cafes for dining.
Yes, the area by the Mad River is perfect for picnics, offering scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere.
You'll find a range of options from casual cafes to local Vermont fare, reflecting the charm of the region.
Many establishments in Waitsfield village offer outdoor seating, ideal for enjoying a meal or coffee with a view.
Yes, local shops and cafes in Waitsfield village typically sell snacks, drinks, and other provisions.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, creating a warm, golden glow.
Its historic architecture, picturesque setting over the Mad River, and the surrounding natural beauty make it a classic New England photo opportunity.
The pedestrian walkway provides excellent vantage points. Experiment with shots from the riverbanks as well.
Yes, the bridge is a popular spot for photoshoots, capturing models and local life against a historic backdrop.
A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens is great. A wide-angle lens can capture the full scope of the bridge and its surroundings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers & Artists
Aim for early mornings or late afternoons to capture the best light, often referred to as the 'golden hour.' The pedestrian walkway offers unique angles, and the riverbanks provide a different perspective. 🚗 Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Visiting the Great Eddy Covered Bridge offers a tangible connection to the past. You can almost imagine the horse-drawn carriages and early automobiles that once traversed its span. Its location over the Mad River adds to its charm, providing a scenic backdrop that has inspired artists and photographers for generations.
It's a testament to the enduring craftsmanship and the importance of preserving these architectural marvels for future appreciation.Experiencing the Mad River
For the adventurous, there are several jumping spots into the river. These include cement ledges of varying heights, approximately 3 and 10 feet, as well as the opportunity to jump from the catwalk windows of the bridge itself. These spots are a hit with both kids and dogs, making it a lively and fun destination for families.
Artistic Inspiration and Local Charm
Beyond the bridge itself, Waitsfield village offers a delightful array of quaint shops and local businesses. Visitors can spend time browsing unique boutiques, art galleries, and craft stores, adding a layer of cultural exploration to their visit.
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