Explore The History of Quechee Gorge, Vermont

---

Some 13,000 years ago, during the Ice Age, Quechee, like the majority of our continent, was covered by a glacier. As the glacier receded from the ocean waters, the melting waters slowly and steadily cut away the bedrock ridge that has become Vermont’s most spectacular natural wonder.

Some 13,000 years ago, during the Ice Age, Quechee, like the majority of our continent, was covered by a glacier. As the glacier receded from the ocean waters, the melting waters slowly and steadily cut away the bedrock ridge that has become Vermont’s most spectacular natural wonder, Quechee Gorge.

Enjoy beautiful vistas 168 feet above the Ottaquechee River, have a picnic overlooking the waterfalls, or get something to eat at the snack bar. Enjoy hiking or walking the trails along the mile-long chasm. Go shopping at Quechee Gorge gift shop. The Quality Inn, Shephard's Pie Restaurant, and State Park are located within walking distance of the Gorge.

Visit the Quechee Gorge Visitors Center, built-in 2005. It offers ample bus parking and public restrooms. This two-story building with an elevator houses the Chamber of Commerce and Information Center. Walking trails abound; shopping and restaurants are across the street.

The legislature of Vermont granted a charter to construct the railroad in 1863, but little was done until 1867 when enough money was raised to begin construction. Construction began in earnest in 1868 and proceeded fitfully until 1875 when the line was finally completed and the first train made the trip. While never very busy, the line continued running until 1933, when it was abandoned. The last run took place on Saturday, April 15, 1933.

Two major obstacles were overcome during construction: one mile (1.6 km) long cut in Stanley Hill and a substantial trestle over the Quechee Gorge, formed by the Ottauquechee River. The original trestle was replaced first by a wooden arch bridge, then in 1911 by one made of steel. At one time the 163-foot (49.7 m) high structure may have been the highest railroad bridge in New England.

Originally the Woodstock Railroad, a financial reorganization in 1890 caused the name to change to Woodstock Railway. Read More

The Quechee Gorge is located in Quechee, Vermont, along US route 4. The gorge is 165 feet deep and is the deepest gorge in Vermont. It serves as a popular tourist attraction in Quechee State Park and can be viewed from the US route 4 bridge and a from trails on both sides of the gorge. The Ottauquechee River flows through the bottom of the gorge and is a popular whitewater kayak run.