Scott Covered Bridge crosses the West River near Townshend’s main village in southern Vermont. Built in 1870, it is among the state’s longest covered bridges at 277 feet. Its significance lies in its unusual combination of three structural systems in one crossing: a central Town lattice truss, two outer kingpost trusses, and later laminated arches reinforcing the lattice span. Originally owned by the town, it later came under state historic preservation oversight and underwent repeated repairs to keep it standing. After serious structural problems forced its closure in 2012, a major restoration allowed it to reopen in May 2017 for walking and cycling, reflecting Vermont’s ongoing effort to preserve covered bridges.

Townshend, Vermont · USA