Saunders Public Access Easement
Bristol, Vermont
New Haven River
- Public access: Yes
- Activities: walking, birding, swimming, photography, fishing
- Caretaker: Town of Bristol
Saunders Public Access Easement
Though there are no designated trails here, it’s a great place to wander through the hayed farm fields, and find a quiet spot by one of the many braided channels of the New Haven River. Bring binoculars and spot birds, bring a fishing rod and cast your line, or bring a picnic and enjoy an afternoon on the water.
The Saunders Family farmed here for generations, but when Tropical Storm Irene left behind sand and gravel across their farm fields, they weren’t sure it made sense to keep farming in the river’s path. A natural floodplain, this is exactly the kind of land the Town of Bristol wanted to keep as open space, a conservation effort that’s good for water and wildlife, and keeps Bristol homes and roads safer from flooding.
The Saunders Family and Town of Bristol worked with Vermont River Conservancy to buy the land, add a public access and conservation easement, and then donate the land to the Town of Bristol. Thanks to this partnership, the river can ebb and flow as it has for millenia, and people will always have access to this special waterway.
Local Businesses
Stop by the Village Creeme Stand for a refreshing treat on your way to or from the river. If you’re looking for a meal, The Bobcat Cafe offers great food, beer, and a hopping atmosphere.
Conservation Details
- River: New Haven River
- Acreage: 40.10
- River frontage (ft): 3,900
Funding Partners
This project made possible thanks to the support and partnership of:
- Bristol Conservation Commission
Directions
The farm lane leading into the kiosk at the Saunders River Access is located at approximately 1160 South 116 Rd, directly across from the barns and silos of the Saunders farm. There is a small, orange utility post on the shoulder of Rt 116 that marks the lane. As yet, there is no signage identifying this as the entrance to the Saunders River Access. Turn onto the farm lane and drive through the hay meadow – please follow the laneway so as not to unnecessarily trample the hay crop.
From the North:
Heading South on VT Route 116 from Bristol village, turn left at the red blinking light, at the Junction of VT Routes 116 and 17, to stay on VT Rt 116. Continue approximately 1.2 miles to the south. Turn left onto the farm lane from Route 116.
From the South:
Heading North on VT Route 116 from Middlebury, cross over the New Haven River on the new bridge at Sycamore Park in Bristol. Continue approximately 1.1 miles to the north. Turn right onto the farm lane from Route 116.
