Taftsville Covered Bridge
A quintessential Vermont experience, this historic red covered bridge offers picturesque views of a waterfall and the Ottauquechee River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Taftsville Covered Bridge
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A quintessential Vermont experience, this historic red covered bridge offers picturesque views of a waterfall and the Ottauquechee River.
"A classic red covered bridge with a waterfall backdrop, perfect for photos and a taste of New England charm."
📸 Capture the Charm
Get those perfect Taftsville Covered Bridge photos! Early mornings offer the best light and fewer people.
🚗 Drive Across Carefully
You can drive across the bridge! Be mindful of other vehicles and wait your turn for the best experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Red Covered Bridge
Main span
A classic, vibrant red covered bridge offering picturesque views and a quintessential New England experience.
Ottauquechee River Waterfall
Adjacent to the bridge
The gentle cascade of the Ottauquechee River creates a serene backdrop, especially stunning with fall foliage.
Hydroelectric Power Station
Near the bridge
An interesting industrial element that adds a unique contrast to the historic bridge and natural scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Access and Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Charm
Get those perfect Taftsville Covered Bridge photos! Early mornings offer the best light and fewer people.
🚗 Drive Across Carefully
You can drive across the bridge! Be mindful of other vehicles and wait your turn for the best experience.
🍂 Fall Foliage Gem
Visit in early October for stunning fall colors by the river.
📍 Part of a Bridge Tour
Combine your visit with other nearby covered bridges in Woodstock for a scenic tour.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Charm
Get those perfect Taftsville Covered Bridge photos! Early mornings offer the best light and fewer people.
🚗 Drive Across Carefully
You can drive across the bridge! Be mindful of other vehicles and wait your turn for the best experience.
🍂 Fall Foliage Gem
Visit in early October for stunning fall colors by the river.
📍 Part of a Bridge Tour
Combine your visit with other nearby covered bridges in Woodstock for a scenic tour.
❄️ Winter Wonderland
Even in December, the bridge offers a charming, snowy Vermont scene.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Taftsville Covered Bridge for its iconic red beauty and picturesque setting alongside the Ottauquechee River waterfall. It's a beloved spot for photography and a quintessential New England experience. While parking is limited and it's an active road, its charm and historical significance make it a must-see.
"All in one spot... A mix of Vermont's popular covered bridges, a small dam, and a hydroelectric power station! Free Parking (for about 10 vehicles) is right beside the power station."
M S
"Beautiful covered bridge with the view of the waterfall off the dam. There's a small place to pull off and park to get photos"
Alyssa Chartrand
"Pretty red covered bridge and the waterfall from Ottauquechee river, there are some fall colors by the river first week of October."
D T (琳)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Taftsville Covered Bridge is located near Woodstock, Vermont. It's easily accessible by car and is often visited as part of a scenic drive through the area. GPS navigation will guide you directly to it.
Yes, there is limited free parking available for about 10 vehicles right beside the hydroelectric power station. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.
The bridge is situated along a road, so while you can walk to it, it's best accessed by car. The surrounding area is pleasant for a short stroll to admire the bridge and river.
The bridge is located off Route 4, a scenic highway in Vermont. Many visitors enjoy the drive through the picturesque Vermont countryside to reach the bridge.
Absolutely! It's a perfect quick stop for photos and to experience a piece of Vermont's history and charm. Many road-trippers include it in their New England itinerary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting and driving across the Taftsville Covered Bridge is completely free. It's a public road and a historic landmark accessible to all.
The bridge is always accessible as it's part of a public road. You can visit at any time of day or night, though daylight hours are best for photography.
There's no need to book tickets or make reservations. The Taftsville Covered Bridge is an open-air landmark that can be visited spontaneously.
Yes, the Taftsville Covered Bridge is open year-round. It offers different scenic beauty in each season, from vibrant fall colors to winter snow.
Yes, you can stop in the designated pull-off areas to take photos. Be cautious of traffic when crossing the bridge.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light for photography. Golden hour can create stunning shots, especially with fall foliage.
Try capturing the bridge from the riverbank for a scenic view including the waterfall. Driving across it also offers unique perspectives.
Yes, the Ottauquechee River and the surrounding Vermont landscape provide beautiful backdrops. Look for fall colors in autumn and snow-covered scenes in winter.
A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens is great. Even a smartphone camera can capture the charm of this iconic covered bridge.
Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check local FAA guidelines and be mindful of private property and potential noise disturbances before flying a drone.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main activity is admiring and driving across the historic covered bridge. You can also enjoy the views of the Ottauquechee River waterfall and the surrounding natural beauty.
Most visitors spend about 15-30 minutes here, primarily for photos and to drive across. It's a quick but memorable stop.
The bridge itself is a road, so accessibility depends on your mode of transport. The parking area and immediate vicinity are generally accessible, but uneven terrain may be present.
Restroom facilities are not directly at the bridge. You'll likely find them in nearby Woodstock or at other attractions along Route 4.
This is one of Vermont's oldest covered bridges, built in 1836. It was significantly damaged by Hurricane Irene in 2011 but was meticulously rebuilt.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parking is limited, so consider visiting with younger children during off-peak hours to avoid stress. While there aren't extensive facilities, the short duration of the visit makes it manageable. Pack some snacks and drinks, and let the kids enjoy the novelty of this iconic Vermont landmark.
🚗 Road Trippers & Scenic Drivers
Combine your visit with other nearby covered bridges in Woodstock for a comprehensive covered bridge tour. The scenic drive through the Vermont countryside leading to and from Taftsville is an attraction in itself, especially during the fall foliage season.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Vermont's Covered Bridges
Despite its historical significance, the bridge has faced challenges. It was severely damaged during Hurricane Irene in 2011, a testament to the powerful forces of nature. However, through dedicated restoration efforts, it was rebuilt, preserving its charm and functionality for future generations. This resilience adds another layer to its story, showcasing the community's commitment to its heritage.
Visiting Taftsville offers more than just a photo opportunity; it's a chance to connect with a tangible piece of American history. It’s a reminder of simpler times and the ingenuity of past builders. For those exploring Vermont, seeking out its covered bridges is a rewarding journey into the heart of New England's rural charm.
Capturing the Perfect Shot: Photography Tips
Experiment with different angles. While a straight-on shot of the bridge is classic, try framing it with the Ottauquechee River in the foreground or capturing the details of its construction. If you're lucky enough to visit during autumn, the vibrant fall colors create a spectacular backdrop. Even in winter, the snow-dusted bridge offers a serene and picturesque scene.
Remember that the bridge is an active roadway. Be patient and wait for traffic to clear if you want to drive across for a unique perspective or capture a shot from within. Always prioritize safety and be aware of your surroundings. For those interested in drone photography, ensure you are familiar with and adhere to all local regulations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit