Wolcott Community Forest

Vermont is known for its beautiful natural landscapes—bucolic farms, awe-inspiring mountaintops, and vast forests that draw millions of visitors every year. However, not all Vermonters have the same access to local greenspace.

Trust for Public Land partnered with the Town of Wolcott and the Northern Rivers Land Trust to conserve and create Wolcott Community Forest, allowing close-to-home opportunities for hiking, hunting, cross-country skiing, mountain biking—and the physical, mental, and social benefits that nature brings—for the Wolcott community and beyond.

The creation of Wolcott Community Forest added 735 acres of new public land within walking distance of the center of Wolcott and directly adjacent to the Wolcott Elementary School, Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, and the proposed Velomont Trail. The new community forest also provides a local gathering space where teachers can guide students in outdoor education, and the community can stay active through a network of trails or bond with their neighbors while enjoying an outdoor concert on the property’s picturesque open field.

Additionally, Wolcott Community Forest holds importance for a variety of species. The property acts as a valuable link for wildlife like bobcats and moose between nearby forests like Green River Reservoir State Park, Elmore State Forest, and East Hill Wildlife Management Area.

Working together with partners and residents, the creation of Wolcott Community Forest establishes a vibrant hub for community engagement, outdoor education, and wildlife conservation, enriching the lives of present and future generations alike.