Directions:
Park in the side lot of Flick's video store on Main Street in Montgomery Center
(VT 118)
General Description:
Montgomery is a picturesque Vermont town at the bottom of Jay Peak,
near the Quebec border. The area is sparsely
populated but the seven covered bridges in the area makes it a popular mountain biking and cycling destination. Fall is the best time to ride here. Montgomery, and Montgomery Center
historically come to height of fall foliage color the last week of September through the first
week of October.
The Route:
Montgomery's covered bridges are legendary in Vermont, and a source of tremendous
local pride. Take a break from your bicycle ride to discover their unique differences. Along
the route you'll find other historic bridges, including an iron railroad trestle
adapted for bicycle and snowmobile travel, and Richford's downtown gateway bridge
over the Missisquoi River.
From the town of Montgomery you can do short bike rides to several covered bridges; or a 17.2 mile loop from the town of Richford that includes part of the Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail.
Historical Note: Montgomery Covered Bridges
1. The Hopkins Bridge:
Circa 1875. Crosses the Trout River southeast of East Berkshire.
2. The Longley (Samuel Head) Bridge:
Circa 1883. Crosses the Trout River. Rennovated with a new deck, roof,
and siding.
3. The Comstock Bridge:
Circa 1883. Crosses the Trout
River and provides alternate access to Rte 118 for local residents. The surroundings
are park-like.
4. The Fuller Bridge or Black River Covered
Bridge:
Circa 1890. Located in the heart
of Montgomery Village and is very much a part of village life. During Christmas season it can be found covered in wreaths and lights.
5. The Hutchins Bridge:
Circa 1883. Named after Joseph Hutchins who operated a five-lathe tub factory here which produced 2,000 butter tubs a day.
6. The Hectorville (Gibou) Bridge:
Circa 1883. The Hectorville Bridge had deteriorated and was likely fall into the South Branch of the Trout River. It was taken and put in storage where it is likely to remain until at least next fall.
7. The Creamery Bridge:
Circa 1883. This little bridge crosses West Hill
Brook. This was a busy place with 49 active farms, a creamery, and a lumber mill in the area.
A waterfall and pool beneath
the bridge are still inviting on hot summer days. You can still see what's left of the creamery
at the north entrance.
For more information:
Central Vermont Regional Planning Commission
226 State Street
Montpelier, Vermont 05602
Phone: (802)-229-0389
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