Quechee State Park

Quick Facts

Quechee State Park

Vermont

(802) 295-2990

Map Directions

Things To Do

Overview

Welcome to Quechee State Park. Its location along US Rte 4 and its proximity to many Upper-Valley attractions make the park a popular tourist destination. Visitors stop each year to take in the breathtaking views of the Quechee Gorge. Other visitors seeking an overnight stay enjoy the easy access to the park's spacious campsites. The focal point of the park is Vermont's deepest gorge, formed by glacial activity approximately 13,000 years ago. Visitors can look down at the Ottauquechee River, flowing 165 feet below Route 4 or take a short hike downhill to the bottom where many folks enjoy swimming or picnicking.

Map of Quechee (VT)

Latitude, Longitude: 43.639160, -72.413450

Boating
A beautiful nearby gem of water body, Dewey's Pond is a great place to boat, paddle, and fish. No gas motors, electric only are allowed.
Bird Watching
Many beautiful species of bird have been spotted in and around Quechee State Park. Some include: yellow-rumped warbler, Canada goose, mallard, northern goshawk, bald eagle, golden eagle, red-tail, northern harrier, veery, red shoulder, osprey, black-thoated warbler, scarlet tanager, white-throated sparrow, blue jay, and morning dove. Bring your binoculars and have fun!
Bicycling
Take a country road tour from Quechee to Woodstock or bike along the Ottauquechee River to Quechee Gorge. Many of the back roads in and around Quechee are light traffic and very scenic.
Auto/Motorcycle
Quechee State Park is located on the Connecticut River Byway, a scenic road running along the border of New Hampshire. Along this road, visitors can see the birthplace of Vermont, drive across a two span covered bridge 465 feet long which was built in 1866, or visit a museum housing the largest collection of historically significant machine tools in the nation.

Also nearby is the Mt. Ascutney Auto Road, located in Mt. Ascutney State Park. This steep and winding road leads to a summit with 360 degree views of the surrounding state and New Hampshire, a perfect spot for a picnic and lots of pictures!
Camping
The park contains 45 tent/trailer sites and 7 lean-to sites which are located in the camping area. Two bathrooms with showers ($) serve the campground. Most sites are large enough to accommodate large RVs. There is a dump station, but no hookups. A large field and play area are also in the campground. Ice and firewood are available for purchase. Pets are permitted.
Fishing
Hike and then fish Quechee Gorge! The Ottauquechee River flows eastward within a broad and shallow valley and makes for excellent trout fishing. Species include: rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout. Nearby Dewey's Pond has largemouth bass and northern pike. There are also smaller fish such as blue gill. Visitors over the age of 15 must carry a valid fishing license.
Hiking
Two hiking trails leave from the park to the gorge. Nearby Mt. Ascutney State Park has a network of trails going to the summit. A visitor center is located on US 4 for those wanting to do longer hikes. For detailed trail info and maps, click on the link below to visit the park web page.
Historic Sites
In addition to the cultural and historic sights along the Connecticut River Byway (as noted above), visitors can also see the old Boston-Maine locomotive #494 built in 1892 and wander through two restored historic railroad stations that now serve as waypoint centers. Farms, craft/antique shops, glass blowing foundries, and a micro-brewery are also along the byway.
Picnicking
A great place for a picnic is right in the Gorge itself! Bring a lunch and enjoy the sounds of the river while you bask on the sunny rocks.
RVing
The park contains 45 tent/RV sites (no hook-ups) which are located in the camping area. Two bathrooms with showers ($) serve the campground. Most sites are large enough to accommodate large RVs. There is a dump station on the southern side of the campground. Ice and firewood are available for purchase. Limited generator use is permitted. Pets are permitted.
Water Sports
Visitors of all ages have fun swimming in the Ottauquechee River in Quechee Gorge. It's fun to hop in up river and float down, or find slower section to wade or peacefully cool off.
Wildlife Watching
Wildlife abounds in Quechee State Park. Commonly seen animals include white-tailed deer, fisher, coyote, black bear, beaver, otter, turkey, fox, ruffed grouse, red-tailed hawk and sometimes a bald eagle. Reptiles and amphibians include garter snakes, wood frog, spring peeper, American toad, and yellow-spotted salamander.
Winter Sports
Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are fun ways to see the park in winter. There are no facilities or staff available, but visitors are encouraged to explore the park during the off season and enjoy the quieter time of year.