The Faulkner Trail is a popular hike featuring gentle switchbacks that build up to an incredible panoramic view of Woodstock from the South Peak of Mount Tom. The Faulkner trail was carefully constructed in 1937 by Marianne Faulkner in memory of her husband Edward Daniels Faulkner. She designed it to mirror gentle "cardiac health" trails in the spa town of Baden Baden, Germany where the Faulkners would visit, seeking a cure for Edward's crippling rheumatoid arthritis.
Most of the trail gradually gains elevation, leading to a scenic overlook with a bench. The last 100 yards to the South Peak was not part of Mrs. Faulkner's original switchback trail and is rocky and steep, with handrails along some sections.
Thanks to years of work by many partners, the first third of the trail, from Mountain Ave. to the Stone Bridge, has been completely restored and enhanced to meet outdoor accessibility standards. It is 4+ feet wide with a compacted gravel surface. Please remain on the trail, and don't cut the switchbacks as that kills the vegetation and impacts the gravel surfacing.
Please note that dogs must be leashed.
The Faulkner Trail is in Faulkner Park, which is owned by the Faulkner Trust. Questions to the Trust can be addressed to:
Faulkner TrustThe Faulkner Trail begins at the trailhead kiosk in Faulkner Park on Mountain Avenue in Woodstock, VT. From the green in Woodstock, head east on US-4 then turn right on Mountain Avenue. Parking is along the road, please be respectful of the neighbors. Follow the paved trails in the park to the back of the mowed area and you'll see the trailhead kiosk.
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