We returned recently to the Bridge of Flowers in Shelburne Falls, MA. We had an out of town guest who wanted to see it and I never need much persuading. This is the first time I have seen it in August, and it was stunning.

Built in 1908, the Bridge of Flowers is a former trolley bridge. When automobiles and trucks came along, the company that owned the bridge went bankrupt and for two years, the bridge was unused. In 1928, a resident suggested turning the bridge into a giant garden, and in 1929, loam and fertilizer were spread over the span. By 1975, it was determined that the bridge was deteriorating, so in 1979, it was re-built. The perennial beds are still maintained by volunteer gardeners.

The bridge is open from early April until the end of October. There’s no set admission price, but there is a donation box at the entrance.

The bridge spans the Deerfield River, making the setting even more lovely. This gnarled Wisteria was in bloom when I visited last spring.

The Bridge of Flowers is a major tourist attraction that creates all kinds of beneficial spin-off business in the little town.

And there’s is more to see here. The glacial potholes are just a short stroll away.

Old buildings provide plenty of interesting opportunities for a photo geek like me.

Many of the quirky structures, like this gift shop, hang out over the river.

Shelburne Falls is a very dog-friendly town, with water bowls in front of many of the stores. However, understandably, the bridge itself is off-limits to dogs, even if they are carried.

Here’s a last look at one of the bridge plantings – a low-maintenance combination I love.