West Thompson Dam River Trail offers 7.4 miles of blazed trailsin ascenic loop around West Thompson Lake and the Quinebaug River. The trail is easily navigated, although it does have rocks and roots on some sections and some areas of steep grades, making it a moderate difficulty hike. The trail is primarily aloop that circles both the river and lake, including the Shoreline Trail and the Quinebaug River Trail (Orange Trail). Much of the trail follows the water’s edge, passing through forest and crossing a farmed field. The trail passes over the dam, which provides beautiful views from either side on West Thompson Road. Wildlife viewing opportunities includeturtles, Great Blue Herons, Canada Geese, various ducks, red fox, hawks, osprey, turkeys, and songbirds, with bald eagles possible in late winter and early spring. A notable historic feature isthe foundation of the Ramsdell house, which still remains on the west side of the lake directly off of Old Ravenelle Road. The area is managed by the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers.