Floating Bridge
Swimming hole in Montpelier, Vermont · Lake
Floating Bridge is a lake swimming hole. It is near Montpelier, Vermont. Access is free. Best season: Summer months (July-August) for swimming.
Typical season: Summer months (July-August) for swimming
About Floating Bridge
Floating Bridge lies in Vermont, where Sunset Lake moves through a wooded corridor. Visitors trade crowds for a quieter bank access.
The Floating Bridge on Sunset Lake in Brookfield, Vermont is unmistakably the latter. What you find here isn't just a place to cool off on a hot July afternoon. It's a living piece of American history, a rare engineering curiosity, and one of the most quietly magical freshwater destinations in New England.
The bridge itself, which has spanned Sunset Lake in various forms since 1820, is the only floating bridge east of the Mississippi River, riding low on the water's surface so that waves lap gently over its planks when trucks rumble across. Sunset Lake sits in the rolling hills of central Vermont, cradled by dense forest that shifts dramatically with the seasons. In July and August, the surrounding treeline is a wall of deep green, reflected in the lake's calm, clear water. Come September and October, those same hills ignite in amber, crimson, and gold, making the short walk to the water's edge feel like stepping into a painting. The lake is peaceful and unhurried. You're more likely to hear birdsong and the soft slap of water against the bridge's pontoons than any kind of crowd noise. The atmosphere here is distinctly Vermont: understated, genuine, and quietly beautiful.
No lifeguards patrol Floating Bridge. Facilities are limited, so judge depth, current, and weather when you arrive.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- Lake
- Water body
- Sunset Lake
- Fee
- Free
- Nearest town
- Montpelier
- State
- Vermont
- Coordinates
- 44.04283, -72.57504
- Best season
- Summer months (July-August) for swimming; autumn (September-October) for breathtaking foliage; winter for the ice harvesting festival.
- Access difficulty
- Easy access; no hiking required, but plan for few developed facilities.
- Parking
- Designated area
- Lifeguard
- Present (seasonal)
- Cliff jumping
- Reported
- Camping
- Not at site
- Activities
- Swimming, Jumping (check depth first)
- Facilities
- No on-site facilities; you should bring their own provisions including water, towels, and sunscreen.
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visit Summer months (July-August) for swimming; autumn (September-October) for breathtaking foliage; winter for the ice harvesting festival.
- Access Easy access; no hiking required, but plan for few developed facilities.
- Facilities No on-site facilities; you should bring their own provisions including water, towels, and sunscreen.
- Camping nearby Not at site
Highlights & features
- Historic floating bridge
- Clear freshwater swimming
- Picturesque views
- Rich local history
- Seasonal beauty
- Only floating bridge east of the Mississippi
- Annual ice harvesting festival
- History dating back to 1820
How to get there
Floating Bridge lies in Vermont near Montpelier, Brookfield. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.
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Starting Point: Interstate 89 (I-89)
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Take Exit 4 from Interstate 89 (I-89). This exit is near Randolph Center, Vermont. Follow Route 66 East
After exiting, turn onto Route 66 East (VT-66) and head toward Randolph Center.
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Turn Left
to Stay on Route 66 At the next intersection, turn left to remain on Route 66. This ensures you stay on the correct route.
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Approach the "Y" Intersection
Continue on Route 66 for a short distance until you reach a "Y" intersection. Here, Route 66 veers off to the right. Instead of following Route 66, bear left onto Ridge Road . Travel Along Ridge Road Follow Ridge Road for about 5 miles. You will pass through scenic rural areas, so enjoy the views as you drive. Turn Left onto Brookfield State Highway After about 5 miles, Ridge Road will intersect with Brookfield State Highway. Turn left onto Brookfield State Highway. This road will take you downhill toward the Floating Bridge.
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Arrive at the Floating
Bridge Continue downhill on Brookfield State Highway until you reach the Floating Bridge, located in the center of Brookfield. The bridge spans Sunset Lake and is a unique attraction in the area.
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Parking and Final Approach
Parking is available near the Floating Bridge. Look for designated parking areas or roadside spots nearby. If visiting during peak times, parking may be limited, so plan accordingly. The bridge itself is accessible on foot, and you can enjoy views of Sunset Lake or take a swim in the surrounding area.
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Helpful notes
The Floating Bridge is a popular spot for both locals and visitors, so it’s recommended to arrive early during summer months to secure parking. Be mindful of local traffic and pedestrians near the bridge. Bring any necessary . Have a safe visit to the Floating Bridge in Brookfield, Vermont!
Plan your visit
Floating Bridge works well as a day trip from Montpelier or Brookfield. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Combine the swim with camping at Congdon'S Point or browse more Vermont lake spots in our directory. For the full list in Vermont, see our state directory.
Access & fees
This is an unofficial, unmaintained swimming area. Parking is roadside or in informal areas near the bridge and can be limited, especially in summer. No facilities or services are present. Access and conditions can change with weather and lake levels.
Top picks for this trip
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Outward Hound Granby Splash Life Jacket
The best all-around dog swim float for natural water — as long as the hole is calm and you stay hands-on.
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What to pack for Floating Bridge
Gear we compare side by side for lake swims like this one — water access, sun, and the hike in.
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Floating Bridge?
Yes. Floating Bridge near Montpelier and Brookfield in VT is a lake swimming spot on Sunset Lake. Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.
Is Floating Bridge free?
Access is generally free (fee listed as “None”). Confirm any parking or day-use rules on site, and pack out trash.
How do you get to Floating Bridge?
Floating Bridge is in VT within day-trip range of Montpelier and Brookfield. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
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Map & location
Culture & history
Symbol of Brookfield's resilience and innovation; site of historical significance dating back to the early 19th century.
Conservation
Follow Leave No Trace principles; preserve the fragile ecosystem by minimizing waste and respecting wildlife.
Sources & updates
Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.