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C H R O N O F H O R S E . C O M M AY/J U N E 2 017 101 New England Charm Is On Full Display In WOODSTOCK, VERMONT B y C H R I S T I N A K EI M C overed bridges. Stunning scenery. Quaint inns, shops and restaurants. A perfect display of all four seasons. e town of Woodstock, Vt., offers all of this, but there's another big draw for the horsey crowd too. e village of South Woodstock is home to the Green Mountain Horse Association's 65-acre facility, and it's an epicenter of equestrian activity from April through November. Nestled on the banks of the Ottauquechee River, Woodstock is home to about 3,000 residents, who represent a mix of permanent and seasonal inhabitants. e area tends to draw people from other places, and equine enthusiasts flock to GMHA, which was founded in 1926 and now has 1,200 members. Each year, GMHA offers several nationally recognized competitions in each of its major disciplines—dressage, driving, eventing, hunter/jumper, endurance and com- petitive trail/pleasure—and hosts schooling competitions as well. In addition, outside groups rent the facility for their own events. Tracy Ostler, executive director of GMHA, says that all the organization's activities, whether competitive or recreational, are related to its mission of promoting horsemanship and providing education. GMHA has also been a leader in preserving access to miles of connected trails for equestrian use, partnering with land owners and off-season users like the Vermont Association of Snow Travelers. "As development continues to encroach on open spaces and trail networks in other parts of the Northeast, GMHA remains committed to providing an oasis for horse lovers, whether they're competitors or pleasure riders," says Ostler. "People are drawn here by the open spaces, the trail system and the beauty that surrounds GMHA. People want to be a part of this way of life. GMHA visi- tors benefit from the vibrant local businesses that welcome them, even with their boots on. It's an amazing community." e small town welcomes guests with open arms—just don't break the village speed limit of 25 mph, strictly enforced. Between the months of April and November, Woodstock, Vt., is a hotspot of equestrian activity thanks to the Green Mountain Horse Association, with disciplines ranging from endurance to dressage. PHOTO COURTESY OF GMHA

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