The OEC is located at 297 Upper Pattagansett Road, East Lyme, CT, only 42 miles from New Haven via I-95 north.
OEC Site Location & Map
View the Trail Map
Welcome to the Goodwin and Partners Trails
This trail system is a collaborative initiative between Yale University, the Town of East Lyme, and the State of Connecticut, designed to provide the public with access to preserved natural spaces and scenic walking paths.
Trail Overview
- The White Trail: Named the Goodwin Trail, this route honors Dick Goodwin, a former professor at Connecticut College who was a dedicated advocate for the preservation of open space.
- The Blue-and-White Trail: Known as the Partners Trail, this path celebrates the partnership that made this trail system possible.
Trail Features
- Open Year-Round: Enjoy the trails in every season.
- Historic Pathways: Much of the trail follows old woods roads once traveled by horses and wagons.
- Stone Walls: Numerous historic stone walls mark the remnants of pastures and farmland from the 1800s and early 1900s.
- Aunt Ruth’s Turnpike: A portion of the Goodwin Trail follows this abandoned Town road, running from Upper Pattagansett Road to Walnut Hill Road.
- Birdwatching Haven: Over 120 species of birds have been identified along the trail.
Trail Rules
- 🚫 No campfires
- 🚫 No camping
- 🚫 No motorized vehicles
- 🚫 No hunting
- 🐕 Dogs must be leashed
- 🚶♂️ Please stay on the trail
- 📞 Emergency? Dial 911
🚗 Parking at Darrow Pond
To access the trail from Darrow Pond:
- Take Route 161 to Mostowy Road.
- Turn left onto Mostowy Road.
- After approximately ¼ mile, turn left at 16 Mostowy Road.
- Follow the access drive to the top for parking.
🐜 Tick Safety & Lyme Disease Awareness
Ticks are common in this region, and Lyme Disease is a known risk. Please take precautions to protect yourself:
- Use insect repellent that contains DEET.
- Tuck your pants into your socks to reduce skin exposure.
- Avoid lying on the ground or walking through brush or tall grass.
- Check yourself for ticks when you return home.