Trails and Parking Updates - 2024
The public trail into Rock River Preserve was severely impacted by flooding in July of 2023. Some repairs were completed in 2023, but in certain locations, the trail remains more steep and perilous than in prior years. In 2024, Rock River Preservation will work with contractors and volunteers on routing, wayfinding, and additional repairs to make the trail safer. Trail conditions can change at any time and the trail should only be considered passable for experienced hikers who are familiar with the terrain. Please use appropriate footwear, keep your hands free to help navigate the steep rocks, and always choose the (marked) lower routes closer to the river. The 'hug me' rock is more precarious on the return trip; please be alert enough to exit safely. Road repairs along Route 30 were completed in the fall of 2023, and we anticipate that parking will be as normal for this season. As always, please do not walk in travel lanes and use extreme caution if you must walk across the roadway.
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The Land and The River
Rock River is a beautiful tributary of the Connecticut River in Southern Vermont. When folks speak of "Rock River", they're often referring to the wilderness trails and "beaches" alongside the lower reaches of this river. Rock River Preservation, Inc. is a group of volunteers who took the initiative to conserve this land. We continue to proudly maintain it for future generations! Please see our visitors page for further information and guidelines.
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The Community
Rock River Preservation strives to maintain a collaborative relationship with adjacent landowners and the communities of Newfane and Dummerston, through which Rock River passes. We oversee regular maintenance and cleanup of the trails and swimming holes of Rock River Preservation, Inc.-owned land. We post rules for responsible use of the river by visitors and coordinate a stewardship program through which these are communicated and administered. As outlined in our conservation plans, we take an active role in trail maintenance, protecting fragile ecosystems, and suppressing non-native plant species that appear on the land. We are proud to make annual donations to the local first responder agencies who keep our community safe.
Visitors
Visitors to Rock River are asked to enjoy this special place in a spirit of RESPECT for our Community, the Land, and fellow Visitors (please see our guidelines for complete details). Parking is available along Route 30 in Dummerston. The land is accessed by woodland trails (see our map). We urge you to read our full visitor information carefully and make all necessary preparations before your visit.
Take part in the ongoing preservation
of Rock River!
Rock River exists only thanks the work and financial support of its visitors. We ask you to consider ways that you can contribute so that others may continue to enjoy this special place in the future.