In 2017, a group of Woodstock residents came together to create a 2.8-mile, flat, walking trail on private land near the center of Woodstock and adjacent to Woodstock’s East End Park. Ottauquechee River Trail provides the community with abundant opportunities for exercise, river access and a totally new exposure to Woodstock’s nature and beauty.

On Labor Day 2020, Ottauquechee River Trail opened with great celebration. The Ottauquechee River Trail team had gained permission from the landowners, raised money for trail construction, and obtained the necessary local and state permits/approvals. With this all successfully accomplished, the Woodstock community now has a conveniently located walking trail that can be used by everyone.  This initial construction funding and activity have paved the way for the next phase of existence. Now the trail is maintained and overseen by a group of dedicated volunteers, ensuring that the trail continues to be a valuable asset to the public for years to come.

Conveniently located near the center of town, at the edge of Woodstock’s East End Park, Ottauquechee River Trail is used by more than 500 people per week, local residents and visitors alike:

• Families having picnics, dog owners, nature lovers, fishermen, birdwatchers, and others are regular visitors
• The Thompson Senior Center and Woodstock Terrace  residents take weekly walks along the trail because it is flat and easily navigable
• The recent addition of a wheelchair ramp at the trailhead and a hardened trail makes the trail usable by everyone

Ottauquechee River Trail is a perfect complement to East End Park. The two all-volunteer efforts provide a strong foundation/motivation for further development in Woodstock’s East End, which has long been a priority for the community.

From the beginning, the Woodstock community has actively supported ORT.

• Woodstock’s Economic Development Commission
• Property Owners of the land used by the trail
• Community members through active participation in “volunteer days” and financial support

Now as a project of Woodstock Community Trust, Ottauquechee River Trail can move forward with the next phase of development as part of a professionally managed not-for-profit organization.

The Ottauquechee River Trail’s continued existence depends on your involvement! Participate in one of our regularly scheduled “Volunteer Days” and provide continued financial support through a generous donation to the Woodstock Community Trust. If you love ORT, become active to guarantee its long-term existence.