Vermont Covered Bridge Tours: Scenic Adventures
Explore Vermont's iconic covered bridges on guided tours and self-drive adventures, immersing yourself in history and picturesque landscapes.
Vermont is synonymous with charm, and nowhere is that charm more beautifully encapsulated than in its collection of historic covered bridges. These iconic structures, often nestled amidst rolling hills, babbling brooks, and vibrant foliage, are more than just picturesque crossings; they are living artifacts of a bygone era. Taking a dedicated Vermont Covered Bridge Tour offers a unique opportunity to step back in time, connect with the state's rich agricultural heritage, and discover some of its most scenic and tranquil corners. These tours are designed to showcase the architectural marvels and the stories behind them, providing context and highlighting the picturesque settings that make each bridge a destination in itself. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a leisurely exploration of Vermont's natural beauty, these tours provide a structured yet flexible way to experience these beloved landmarks.
Featured Vermont Covered Bridge Tours Tours
Discover our top picks for vermont covered bridge tours in Vermont
Explore Vermont's Route 100 on a self-guided tour. Embark on a captivating road trip along Vermont's most scenic drive, where brilliant fall foliage and the quintessential charm of New England await. This journey takes you through picturesque towns, idyllic villages, and historic covered bridges. As you travel, explore historic landmarks, visit hidden treasures, and enjoy scenic vistas. Come fall, the route transforms into a vivid tapestry of autumn colors, offering a stunning visual feast that makes this drive truly unforgettable. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. Buy once, use for a year! Perfect for extended or return trips. Not an entrance ticket—check opening hours before visiting.
Download the GuideAlong self-guided audio tour and you'll discover more on your Vermont Scenic Route 100 Byway drive. Hear fascinating stories, local tips, and directions play automatically based on your location. Explore the charming stops along the way, starting with a taste of Apple Cider and a visit to Ben & Jerry's. Enjoy the artisanal flavors at the Cabot Annex and marvel at the historic Covered Bridges. Discover the President Calvin Coolidge Homestead, the beauty of Smugglers Notch, and the charm of Stowe. Enjoy the freedom to explore offline at your own pace, spending more time at places that interest you and bypassing any that don’t. Stories, tips, and directions play automatically based on your location. Travel at your own pace. Tour offline using GPS, no cell service or WiFi needed. Suggested itineraries for half, full, or multi-day use. Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates. Like having a tour guide along for the drive. Purchase one tour per vehicle.
Vermont’s blend of history, craftsmanship, and beauty is best experienced on a scenic drive through its most charming towns. On this self-guided driving tour, you'll journey along picture-perfect roads, over historic covered bridges, and into the heart of the region’s artistic culture. The tour starts in Woodstock, in what’s often called one of the most beautiful small towns in America. You’ll set off towards Quechee, passing through Taftsville to see its striking red covered bridge, one of the most attractive in Vermont. From there, you’ll have a chance to browse a bounty of antiques, vintage finds, and fine art at Vermont Antique Mall and BF Southgate & Company. You’ll follow a historic route to Windsor that parallels the Connecticut River, affectionately known as the “Birthplace of Vermont.“ I’ll show you the Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge, the longest wooden covered bridge in the United States, before you make your way back to Woodstock via West Windsor and South Woodstock.
This 7-hour tour begins with a trip to Waterbury and Stowe, where we will visit a number of popular local attractions. Treat your taste buds at the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory and Cold Hollow Cider Mill, then visit the historic Trapp Family Lodge — the same Von Trapp family that inspired The Sound of Music. Our Vermont tours visit only the most interesting locations, such as a scenic drive to the top of Smugglers’ Notch State Park. You will also have a chance to explore Stowe village. Join me in exploring Vermont! Gratuities: Your day tour cost does not include a gratuity for your tour guide/driver.
This tour brings together two iconic Vermont features - craft beer and covered bridges. The pace is relaxing and easy going, with minimal walking required. Enjoy Vermont beer with a built-in designated driver! We'll travel in a built-for-back roads Bronco, with a (weather permitting) top-down, open air experience you won't soon forget! As much as possible, we keep off the main routes and stick to dirt roads where traffic doesn't exist, the scenery is breathtaking, and hidden views abound. There will be plenty of opportunities to pause and take it all in! Be sure to check out our website for more information on tours and availability! We'll stop at Long Trail and Harpoon but will tailor the route before, between and after to your preferences... some examples of what we suggest are provided for you. Just reach out after you book with any requests!
This 7-hour tour begins with a trip to Montpelier, Vermont's capital city. There we will take a guided tour of the Vermont State House*, with a dedicated tour guide who will teach us some history and be available to answer questions. * The Vermont State House is closed for visitors on Saturdays and Sundays. Our weekend tours will therefore admire the state house from outside, then explore downtown Montpelier by foot. Next we will drive scenic VT RT 100 to the villages of Waitsfield and Warren. Popular attractions include an 1833 covered bridge ("The Big Eddy"), Appalachian Gap, and Moss Glen Falls. Lunch is available for purchase at the Warren Store, a uniquely Vermont experience with great local food. The Warren Store features its own deli, bakery, wine shop, and gift store. This is one of my favorite tours, rich in Vermont's history. It is a perfect mix of our state capital, Vermont's countryside, small village exploration, historic covered bridges, waterfalls and mountains.
There’s nothing like fall in Vermont! The crisp air, the burst of color from maple leaves, and sunlight filtering through the trees make every back road feel like an adventure. Be sure to check out the Vermont Wayfinders website for more information on tours and availability, including add-on options like heading to the top of Killington or going for a horse-drawn carriage ride. Your curated tour takes you through the most scenic routes during foliage season. Whether you’re looking for panoramic views, covered bridges framed by colorful leaves, or charming villages bursting with fall vibes, we put together each itinerary to give you the ultimate Vermont fall experience. Tour Highlights: - Breathtaking foliage views from iconic overlooks and winding back roads - Visits to cozy Vermont towns - Stops at local farms, breweries and hidden vistas - Chances to wander near fields and forests and capture postcard-worthy photos
Why Choose Vermont Covered Bridge Tours in Vermont?
Iconic Architecture
Discover the unique engineering and historical significance of Vermont's numerous covered bridges, each with its own character.
Scenic Routes
Tours often traverse some of Vermont's most beautiful countryside, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
Historical Insights
Gain a deeper understanding of Vermont's past, from transportation history to local folklore associated with these structures.
Photographer's Paradise
Capture stunning images of bridges set against seasonal backdrops, from spring blossoms to autumn splendor.
Authentic Vermont Experience
Experience the quintessential Vermont charm and rural beauty that these bridges so perfectly represent.
Local Knowledge
Benefit from the expertise of local guides who share hidden stories and best viewing spots.
Types of Vermont Covered Bridge Tours in Vermont
Guided Bus Tours
These tours typically involve larger groups traveling by comfortable coach, with a guide providing commentary throughout the journey. They often cover multiple bridges in a region and may include stops for lunch or local attractions.
Self-Drive Itineraries
Ideal for independent travelers, these offerings provide a suggested route, map, and information about key covered bridges. You can explore at your own pace, making them perfect for customized adventures.
Walking & Photography Tours
Focusing on specific areas or individual bridges, these tours often involve short walks to access the best viewpoints. They are excellent for photography enthusiasts and those who enjoy a more intimate exploration.
What to Expect on Vermont Covered Bridge Tours
Duration
Tours typically range from 3 to 4 hours, though some full-day excursions may cover more ground and include additional stops.
Weather
Vermont weather can be variable. Tours operate in most conditions, so it's advisable to check the forecast and dress in layers. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Group Size
Group sizes vary from small, intimate tours with fewer than 10 people to larger bus tours. Self-drive options offer the ultimate in private exploration.
What's Included
Depending on the tour, inclusions can range from transportation and guide services to detailed maps and historical notes. Meals and entry fees to other attractions are usually not included unless specified.
Meeting Point
Meeting points are typically in a central town or at a designated landmark, often with clear instructions provided upon booking.
Costs
Prices generally start around $30 per person for self-drive itineraries or shorter guided excursions, with guided bus tours potentially costing $75 or more, depending on duration and inclusions.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Consider visiting during the fall for spectacular foliage, but be aware that this is peak season and bridges can be crowded.
Spring offers beautiful wildflowers and fewer crowds, while summer provides lush green scenery.
Many covered bridges are part of active roadways; always exercise caution and be mindful of traffic when walking around them.
Pack a good camera and extra batteries – you'll want to capture every angle.
Don't forget a picnic lunch or snacks, especially if opting for a self-drive tour, as some routes may take you through more rural areas.
Check the specific operating seasons for tours, as some may be seasonal, particularly those focusing on fall colors.
Research the specific bridges included in a tour beforehand to ensure they align with your interests.
Wear comfortable shoes, as many tours involve some walking to reach the best vantage points or explore the surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:How many covered bridges are there in Vermont?
A: Vermont boasts over 100 historic covered bridges, making it a prime destination for exploring these unique structures. Many tours focus on clusters in specific regions like the Mad River Valley or the Lamoille Valley.
Q:What is the best time of year to visit Vermont covered bridges?
A: Each season offers its own charm. Fall (September-October) is spectacular for foliage, but also the busiest. Spring brings wildflowers and fewer crowds. Summer offers lush green landscapes, and winter can be magical if snow permits access and tours are running.
Q:Are these tours suitable for families with young children?
A: Yes, many tours are family-friendly, especially those that involve minimal walking and highlight the picturesque scenery. Self-drive options offer the most flexibility for families with young children.
Q:Can I visit covered bridges independently without a tour?
A: Absolutely. Many travelers enjoy creating their own self-guided tours using maps and local information. However, a guided tour can provide valuable historical context and point out less obvious details.
Q:What should I wear on a covered bridge tour?
A: Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you'll likely be doing some walking. Dressing in layers is also advisable, as Vermont weather can change quickly. A waterproof jacket is always a good idea.
Q:Do I need to book these tours in advance?
A: It's highly recommended, especially during peak seasons like fall foliage. Booking in advance ensures availability and can sometimes secure better pricing. This is especially true for popular guided tours.
Q:Are there food and drink options along the tour routes?
A: Some tours include stops at local eateries or farmers' markets, while others pass through charming towns with restaurants. For self-drive tours, it's wise to plan your stops or pack provisions, as some routes can be quite rural.
Why Visit Vermont?
Experience Vermont's stunning fall foliage for unforgettable scenic drives and hiking.
Discover charming small towns like Woodstock, known for its picturesque New England appeal.
Enjoy world-class maple syrup straight from the source on a local farm tour.
Explore a rich history of covered bridges and independent spirit throughout the state.
Savor farm-to-table dining, showcasing fresh, local ingredients in every bite.
Embrace the authentic spirit of a state that values nature and community.
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Vermont experiences four distinct seasons, with warm, humid summers giving way to crisp, colorful autumns, followed by cold, snowy winters, and a vibrant spring thaw. The northern parts of the state tend to be colder and receive more snow than the southern regions.
Best Months
September and October are ideal for visiting Vermont, thanks to the spectacular fall foliage, pleasant temperatures perfect for outdoor activities, and vibrant autumnal colors blanketing the landscape.
Peak Season
Peak season in Vermont is typically during the fall (late September to mid-October) when the foliage is at its most brilliant, attracting large crowds and leading to higher accommodation prices.
Off Season
The off-season includes late winter (March) and spring (April to May), offering fewer crowds and lower prices, though the weather can be unpredictable with mud season being a notable characteristic of early spring.
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Plan Your Vermont Trip
Transportation Tips
Getting around Vermont is best done by car, offering the freedom to explore its scenic byways and rural landscapes at your own pace. Rental cars are available at major airports like Burlington International. During winter, consider a vehicle with all-wheel drive for navigating potentially snowy roads. While public transportation is limited, Amtrak offers service to some towns, and local bus routes connect larger communities. For a more unique experience, consider cycling scenic routes in warmer months, though be prepared for hills.
Car Rental Deals in Vermont
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Where to Stay
Find the perfect accommodation for your Vermont adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Best Hotel Deals in Vermont
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