I’ve photographed a lot of Vermont’s covered bridges over the years, but the Taftsville Covered Bridge, just east of Woodstock, remains one of my favorites.
There’s something about its brilliant red exterior and impressive length that makes it stand out from so many of the state’s other historic bridges. And while Vermont’s covered bridges are particularly photogenic during foliage season, I think Taftsville is even more beautiful on a dreary November afternoon or after a fresh snowfall.
The red practically glows against a gray sky, and when the surrounding landscape is covered in snow, the contrast is spectacular.
Located just off Route 4 between Woodstock and Quechee, the Taftsville Covered Bridge spans the Ottauquechee River and has been part of the surrounding community for nearly 200 years.
It’s also the second-longest covered bridge in Vermont, stretching 189 feet across the river.
The History of Taftsville Covered Bridge
Built in 1836 by local craftsman Solomon Emmons III, the Taftsville Covered Bridge is one of Vermont’s oldest surviving covered bridges and the oldest in Windsor County.
The bridge was constructed using locally sourced timber and stone, with an unusual truss design that wasn’t based on any existing patented bridge plans. Its two spans are supported by a central stone pier in the Ottauquechee River, with wooden arches added to strengthen the structure.
The bridge originally served the small industrial village of Taftsville, connecting the community and its mills with the surrounding countryside.
And here’s something I found interesting: the bridge wasn’t always red.
Its now-iconic red paint was first applied around 1959, more than a century after the bridge was constructed.
It’s hard to imagine Taftsville any other color today.
The bridge has also survived some significant challenges, including Tropical Storm Irene in 2011, when flooding severely damaged one of its abutments. After an extensive restoration, the bridge reopened in 2013, preserving much of its historic construction.
Why I Love Photographing Taftsville in Winter
Vermont’s covered bridges are beautiful in every season, but I have a particular affection for photographing Taftsville when the weather isn’t especially inviting.
On a gray, overcast day, the bright red siding stands out against the muted landscape, with the Ottauquechee River flowing beneath it. Add a little snow to the surrounding trees and riverbanks, and the scene becomes even more beautiful.
I also love the bridge’s length. At nearly 190 feet, it’s considerably longer than many of Vermont’s smaller covered bridges, and its two-span design makes it particularly impressive when viewed from the side.
The surrounding historic village and nearby dam add to the setting, making it a wonderful stop for anyone who enjoys photographing Vermont’s architecture and landscapes.
If you’re exploring Woodstock during winter, I’d absolutely recommend taking a short detour to see it.
Make It Part of a Woodstock or Quechee Day Trip
Taftsville is located along Route 4 between Woodstock and Quechee, making it easy to incorporate into a day exploring this part of Windsor County.
I’d recommend visiting Woodstock Village for its independent shops, historic architecture and restaurants, then continuing east toward Taftsville.
From there, Quechee is only a short drive away, with attractions including Simon Pearce’s flagship store and restaurant overlooking the Ottauquechee River.
And if you’re interested in seeing more covered bridges, Woodstock has two others: the Middle Covered Bridge right in the village and the Lincoln Covered Bridge in West Woodstock.
You could easily spend an afternoon photographing all three while exploring the surrounding countryside.
What to Know Before You Go
- Location
- Taftsville Covered Bridge is located on Covered Bridge Road, just off Route 4 in Taftsville, east of Woodstock, Vermont.
- Length
- 189 feet across two spans, making it Vermont’s second-longest covered bridge.
- Built
- 1836 by Solomon Emmons III.
- Historic Significance
- One of Vermont’s oldest surviving covered bridges and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Best Time to Visit
- Beautiful year-round, but particularly striking during winter, on overcast days and during fall foliage.
- Photography
- The bridge is an active, single-lane roadway. Be mindful of vehicles and only stop where it’s safe and legal to do so.
- Parking
- There isn’t a designated visitor parking area at the bridge. Avoid blocking driveways, roadways or access for local residents.
- Admission
- Free to view.
- Nearby Attractions
- Woodstock Village, Middle Covered Bridge, Lincoln Covered Bridge, Quechee Gorge and Simon Pearce.
Taftsville is one of those Vermont landmarks I never get tired of photographing. I’ve seen it surrounded by colorful foliage, framed by summer greenery and standing out against the bare trees of late fall, but give me a snowy or gloomy day and I think it’s at its best.
Sometimes a gray Vermont day makes the most colorful places look even better.
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