If you’ve got a passion for history, a love for classic New England scenery, and a curiosity about the supernatural, then pack your ghost-hunting gear and head to Stowe, Vermont. Nestled in the picturesque Green Mountains, you’ll find a charming yet bone-chilling covered bridge with a story that refuses to fade into history—Emily’s Bridge (Gold Brook Covered Bridge). Known not only for its quaint, rustic beauty but also for the ghostly legends attached to its wooden beams, this bridge is as eerie as it is scenic. Whether you’re into haunted lore or just want to stand in a place steeped in unexplained phenomena, this destination is one of the most iconic paranormal sites in New England.
The History
From Function to Folklore
Emily’s Bridge (Gold Brook Covered Bridge) was built in 1844 and is a classic example of 19th-century New England architecture. Spanning the Gold Brook in Stowe, Vermont, it’s just 48 feet long and features a single-lane, wooden structure built in the Howe Truss design. Initially erected to serve local residents, farmers, and travelers making their way through Vermont’s rugged terrain, this bridge became an essential part of the region’s development during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The bridge gets its official name from the clear, cold brook that runs beneath it—Gold Brook. For decades, it was just another relic of the past, a quaint reminder of slower, simpler times. However, all that changed with the birth of a chilling tale, one that continues to stir both local gossip and ghost-hunting intrigue.
The Legend of Emily
While the structure itself is historically significant, the urban legend surrounding it is what transformed it into the now-famous Emily’s Bridge (Gold Brook Covered Bridge). According to local lore, the haunting stems from a tragic love story that took place in the 1800s. The most frequently told version of the tale involves a young woman named Emily, who was set to meet her lover at the bridge so they could run away and elope. She waited… and waited. But he never showed.
Heartbroken, betrayed, and filled with despair, Emily reportedly took her own life—some say she hung herself from the rafters of the bridge, while others say she threw herself into the brook below. Since then, the bridge has never known peace, becoming a hotspot for supernatural sightings and unexplained events.
The Unearthed Origins
What’s fascinating is that Emily’s story didn’t surface until the 1960s. That’s when local residents and paranormal investigators began reporting strange occurrences, and the tale of Emily began to crystallize into local folklore. Research into town archives has failed to produce any official documents confirming Emily’s identity or her tragic demise. Skeptics point to this lack of evidence to write off the story as a tall tale. But those who have had eerie experiences on the bridge know better.
The Haunt
A Bridge Between Worlds
Emily’s Bridge (Gold Brook Covered Bridge) has earned a reputation as one of Vermont’s most haunted locations. Visitors come not just for the quaint scenery, but to possibly experience something inexplicably chilling. Countless paranormal encounters have been reported over the years, ranging from ghostly apparitions to physical interactions with the unseen.
Common Paranormal Reports
If you’re brave enough to explore Emily’s Bridge, here are some of the most common haunts that have been reported:
- Scratches on Cars: Many have returned from the bridge with unexplained scratches along the sides of their vehicles. Some say these are claw marks from Emily expressing her rage or pain.
- Disembodied Screams: Nighttime visitors frequently report hearing a woman screaming—long, piercing cries that send shivers up the spine.
- Footsteps and Ropes Creaking: Some have claimed to hear ropes creaking as if someone is hanging from the rafters, accompanied by the sound of footsteps when no one is around.
- Cold Spots and Unnatural Chill: Certain areas of the bridge feel inexplicably cold, even during the summer months, often said to be a sign of spiritual presence.
- Full-Body Apparitions: Though rare, there have been reports of a white figure appearing at the far end of the bridge—often believed to be Emily herself.
Investigative Interest
Emily’s Bridge has drawn the attention of numerous paranormal investigation groups. Both amateur and professional teams have conducted extensive tests, using EMF detectors, EVP recordings, and thermal cameras. Several groups claim to have captured eerie audio recordings—EVPs of a woman crying, whispering, or even answering direct questions. One team noted a significant spike in electromagnetic activity when they asked, “Emily, are you here?”
Interestingly, Emily’s ghost seems to be more responsive to certain visitors—particularly young men. There are many tales of male visitors being scratched, pushed, or overwhelmed with a sensation of intense sadness or anger. Some theorists suggest this could be because Emily associates her betrayal with men in general, leading to more aggressive hauntings toward them.
Modern-Day Phenomena
Even with all our technological advancements, Emily’s Bridge remains a puzzle. Ghost hunters equipped with the latest detection tools still walk away with experiences that defy explanation. Cameras malfunction, batteries drain mysteriously, and strange mists sometimes appear in photographs taken on the bridge. The town of Stowe has fully embraced the legend, even offering ghost tours that include a visit to the bridge and retelling Emily’s story under the cover of night.
Conclusion: Dare to Discover Emily’s Bridge
Emily’s Bridge (Gold Brook Covered Bridge) offers a unique blend of historical charm and spine-tingling mystery. Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or just a curious traveler with a love for New England folklore, this is one destination worth writing on your bucket list. The surrounding scenery is pure Vermont beauty—rolling hills, dense woods, and peaceful brooks—but beneath all that tranquility lies a haunting presence you’ll never forget.
It combines local history with supernatural allure, drawing thrill seekers and historians alike. So, the next time you’re in the Green Mountain State, make a detour to Stowe. Drive slowly over that creaky wooden bridge, roll down your windows, and listen. If you’re lucky—or unlucky—you might just meet Emily.
But remember: visit with respect. This isn’t just a roadside attraction; it’s a piece of haunted Americana. And for those who are serious about paranormal fieldwork, Emily’s Bridge (Gold Brook Covered Bridge) is a dream (or nightmare) come true.