East Woods was purchased in 1949, with the help of several private donors who recognized the potential educational value of these woods and the close proximity to the UVM campus (approximately 2.6 miles.) Students are able to study plants and animals of a mature northern forest in this relatively undisturbed, 40-acre, mixed hardwood and conifer forest. The Potash Brook runs through the middle of East Woods which drains a 7.5-mile watershed and serves the important function of filtering and slowing stormwater while also improving water quality and habitat conditions. The sunlit openings in the canopy allow for the regeneration of plant growth on the forest floor while also providing for a very pleasant walk.

This forest features a 1-mile trail loop with a packed dirt pathway that is somewhat hilly. Dogs are allowed in this natural area as long as they are kept on a leash.

Cars may be parked at a small pull-off lot in front of the trailhead.

The TrailFinder website has a description and map of a hike at East Woods.