Bridgewater: Hiking, Nature, and History

Bridgewater, Vermont, brings together landscape and local history. When planning your trip, it’s worth considering these separately: the Appalachian Trail corridor and the Ottauquechee Wildlife Management Area offer nature and outdoor activities, while the Historical Society, former mill, and historic houses tell the story of the town’s past. Winter brings additional activities.

Landscape and Outdoor Activities

The Appalachian Trail corridor runs for about four miles through North Bridgewater and serves as a wildlife corridor for large mammals. It is significant both for the route of the trail and for local wildlife. The Ottauquechee Wildlife Management Area lies on the south bank of the Ottauquechee River in Bridgewater and covers 284 acres. Hiking and snowshoeing are possible there, provided access is available through adjoining private property. Keep this access requirement in mind when considering the area for either activity.

Winter and Recreation Facilities

In winter, residents and visitors ride snowmobiles on several miles of trails in Bridgewater. Bridgewater’s recreation park offers a different focus: it includes a baseball and softball field, a tennis court, a basketball court, a shuffleboard court, a picnic area, and a playground. While the snowmobile information describes the extent of the trails, the park brings together a variety of sports and recreation facilities in one place.

Local History in Bridgewater

The Bridgewater Historical Society preserves the history of Bridgewater, Vermont, and its many hamlets. Housed in one of Vermont’s oldest schoolhouses, it hosts rotating exhibits at the Old Brick Schoolhouse. Its collection includes artifacts, maps, photographs, and information about gold mines, mills, and the Civil War in the region. These different subjects offer a glimpse into various aspects of the region’s past.

The former Bridgewater Woolen Company mill in the village is also part of the town’s history. The 2018 Town Plan describes how, after closing due to flooding, the mill was converted into several retail shops; it gives their name as “The Marketplace at Bridgewater Mill.” This adaptive reuse links the history of a former industrial building with its described new function. The historic Capt. Richard Southgate House dates to 1797 and was restored by the community in the 1970s. The mill and the house reflect different periods: the development of a former commercial site, and a house from the late 18th century.

Another landmark is Long Trail Brewery in Bridgewater Corners, at the intersection of Routes 4 and 100A. Bridgewater offers a range of starting points for your trip, from scenery and outdoor activities to local history.

Discover more destinations: Hartland, Cavendish, Plymouth, Weathersfield, Brownsville, Woodstock, Ludlow, Barnard.

For the broader travel overview: Windsor County.