Sunset Lake Floating Bridge

Sunset Lake Floating Bridge is a pontoon-based road crossing that carries Vermont Route 65 across the water and spans approximately 318 feet. It accommodates regular vehicle traffic with pedestrian walkways on each side, all supported by fiber-reinforced polymer floats that provide structural stability.

The first structure was built in 1820 when residents realized that standard pilings would not work because of the lake's depth. Over roughly two centuries, eight different versions were constructed as builders adapted to changing needs and engineering advances.

The bridge serves as a gathering point where locals and visitors fish from the railings and enjoy the water below throughout the seasons. Its role as a social hub reflects how the community has integrated this engineering solution into daily life and recreation.

The bridge accommodates both vehicle and pedestrian traffic with dedicated walkways on each side for safer passage. Visitors should be prepared for varied weather, as the floating structure can experience windier conditions than the surrounding landscape.

This is the only floating bridge east of the Mississippi River in the United States and represents an unusual engineering solution for this region. The fact that eight different versions were built at this location shows how engineers continuously tried and refined new approaches over time.

Location: Brookfield

Official opening: 1820

GPS coordinates: 44.04250,-72.60470

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:08