West Montrose Covered Bridge, also known as the "Kissing Bridge", is a covered bridge in West Montrose, Ontario, within Waterloo Region, one of the oldest covered bridges in Canada. The bridge is the only remaining covered bridge in Ontario and the second oldest surviving bridge in the Region of Waterloo.
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West Montrose Covered Bridge (aka "The Kissing Bridge") – Waterloo, Ontario
The West Montrose Covered Bridge, affectionately called the "Kissing Bridge," is a charming piece of 19th‑century engineering tucked away in West Montrose, Waterloo Region. Built in 1880–1881 by Mennonite craftsmen John and Benjamin Bear using robust oak and white pine, it replaced three earlier crossings spanning the Grand River .
At around 60 metres (205 ft) long with dual spans crossing the river, it's the only remaining historic covered bridge in Ontario, and one of the oldest in Canada . Originally lit by oil lamps until 1950, today it features electric lighting and several structural updates—including concrete piers and steel reinforcement—while preserving its classic wooden exterior .
Its romantic nickname comes from a local tradition: in the privacy the covered span offers, travelers in horse‑drawn buggies would steal a kiss—the informal toll to cross! This anecdote lives on in the name of the nearby Kissing Bridge Trailway .
The bridge carries pedestrians, cyclists, horse‑drawn buggies, and light vehicles (under 3 tonnes), and remains fully operational thanks to the Region of Waterloo’s stewardship since 1998 . It was officially recognized as a Provincial Historic Site in 1960 and added to the Canadian Register of Historic Places in 2007 .
Popular year-round with locals and visitors alike, the bridge not only serves as a peaceful scenic stop—where summer canoeists drift underneath and winter parades occasionally take place—but it also has made screen appearances in movies like the 2017...
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The West Montrose Covered Bridge, also known as the Kissing Bridge, is a charming historical landmark in Ontario that’s absolutely worth a visit. Built in 1881, it’s the last remaining covered bridge in Ontario, making it a unique and picturesque spot.
The bridge itself is well-preserved, with its red wooden exterior and scenic setting over the Grand River. Walking through it feels like stepping back in time. The covered design was originally intended to protect the wooden structure from harsh weather, but it also became known as a place where couples would sneak a kiss—hence the nickname!
The surrounding area is peaceful and makes for a great photo opportunity, especially in the fall when the leaves change colors. It’s also a lovely spot for a leisurely drive, a picnic, or just soaking in the quaint countryside charm.
However, since it’s a single-lane bridge still in use, visitors should be mindful of oncoming traffic. Parking is available nearby, but it can get a bit busy on weekends.
Overall, if you enjoy history, scenic views, or just exploring hidden gems, the West Montrose Covered Bridge is...
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I discovered this bridge while browsing the Mennonite Story store in St Jacobs, so I set out to look for it.
The bridge is located in a tranquil small town in such a lovely area that is perfect for a sunny summer day. There are a few parking spaces near both ends of the bridge, across from the Lost Acre Variety Store on one end and at Letson Park on the other end. Although you could drive across the bridge, it’s nicer in my opinion to park your car and walk across the bridge – just beware of traffic because the interior of the bridge is quite dark and not very well maintained, with spiderwebs all across the ceiling, although one could also say that that adds to its historic vibe.
You could take photos from the outside and take a short walk on the road along the river, although the areas immediately around the bridge are private property and you cannot access the river. It’s a cool place, being the only remaining covered bridge in Ontario after all, and worth visiting if you’re...
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