There’s something truly magical about the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont. Whenever I feel the need to escape the hustle and bustle, I find myself drawn to its hidden gems—towns where time seems to slow down and nature takes center stage.
If you’re like me and crave a peaceful retreat, you’ll love exploring these ten secluded towns in Northeast Vermont. Each one offers its own unique charm, from untouched wilderness and serene lakesides to historic beauty and endless greenery. So let’s take a journey through these tranquil spots that offer the perfect getaway from it all.
10. Norton: A Quiet Border Town Surrounded by Wilderness
Norton is a tiny town with a population of just around 150 people, and I love how it’s nestled right on the Canadian border. It’s the kind of place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.
Whenever I’m there, I enjoy hiking through the vast forests that surround the town or spending a peaceful afternoon bird-watching in the wilderness. The main industries here are primarily linked to forestry and small-scale local businesses, which adds to its quaint charm.
Norton’s seclusion comes from its remote location and the unspoiled natural beauty that envelops it, making it a perfect retreat for outdoor enthusiasts like me. It’s a haven for those looking to escape into the quiet and serenity of Vermont’s wilderness.
Where is Norton?
Norton is located in the far northeast corner of Vermont, right along the border with Quebec, Canada. Its isolation is heightened by the vast stretches of forest and the lack of major highways passing through.
To get there, I usually take Route 114, winding through the picturesque landscapes of the Northeast Kingdom, which adds to the sense of adventure.
The town’s seclusion is part of its charm, offering an escape from crowded tourist spots and providing a genuine connection with nature.
9. Granby: Escape to Vermont’s Least Populated Town
With a population of just about 88 residents, Granby holds the title of Vermont’s least populated town, and that’s one of the reasons I find it so enchanting. The tranquility here is unmatched, with expansive woodlands making it a paradise for hikers and nature lovers like me.
Whenever I visit, I take the opportunity to explore the untouched natural beauty, whether it’s a quiet walk through the forests or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings. There’s not much in the way of industry, which maintains the area’s pristine condition and adds to its off-the-grid appeal.
Granby’s seclusion stems from its remote setting and minimal development, offering a true escape from the rush of everyday life. It’s the perfect spot if you’re seeking solitude and a deep connection with nature.
Where is Granby?
Granby is tucked away in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont, nestled between the towns of East Haven and Victory. Its seclusion is amplified by the surrounding forests and the absence of major roads leading into town.
To reach Granby, I typically take the winding local roads off Route 2, which adds to the sense of entering a hidden world. The journey itself, through Vermont’s lush landscapes, highlights just how removed Granby is from urban life, making it an ideal retreat for peace and quiet.
8. Victory: An Off-the-Grid Retreat Amidst Rolling Hills
Victory is a small town with a population hovering around 70 people, and it’s one of my favorite off-the-grid retreats. The rolling hills and rural landscapes provide a serene backdrop that’s perfect for unwinding.
I enjoy exploring the Victory State Forest, which offers trails that meander through dense woodlands and open meadows. There aren’t any significant industries here, which helps maintain the town’s untouched charm and peaceful ambiance.
Victory’s seclusion is due to its remote setting and the fact that it was one of the last towns in Vermont to receive electricity. It’s an ideal spot for anyone looking to disconnect and appreciate the simplicity of rural life.
Where is Victory?
Nestled in the heart of the Northeast Kingdom, Victory is located east of St. Johnsbury and just south of Granby. The town’s seclusion is enhanced by its limited accessibility; there are no major highways leading directly into Victory.
I usually find my way there via Victory Road, which takes me through scenic routes and reinforces the feeling of stepping into a hidden corner of Vermont. The remote location and sparse population make Victory a true escape from the hustle and bustle.
7. Ferdinand: Lost in the Heart of the Northeast Kingdom
Ferdinand is one of those places where solitude isn’t just a possibility; it’s almost guaranteed. With virtually no permanent residents, I consider it the epitome of uninhabited wilderness in Vermont.
The dense forests and untouched landscapes make it a sanctuary for wildlife and a paradise for adventurous explorers like myself.
There are no industries or businesses, which preserves its natural state and offers a rare opportunity to experience nature completely undisturbed. Ferdinand’s seclusion is absolute, making it an ideal destination for those who truly want to get away from it all.
Where is Ferdinand?
Ferdinand is located deep within the Northeast Kingdom, bordered by Maidstone to the north and Brighton to the west. Its remoteness is accentuated by the lack of established roads or infrastructure.
Getting there requires a bit of effort, often involving unpaved roads and trail navigation, which adds to the sense of adventure. This isolated location ensures that Ferdinand remains one of Vermont’s most secluded and pristine areas.
6. Bloomfield: Riverside Serenity Along the Connecticut River
Bloomfield, with its population of about 221, is a quaint town where I often find solace along the banks of the Connecticut River. The gentle flow of the river provides a soothing backdrop to the minimalistic and peaceful lifestyle the town offers.
I enjoy fishing and kayaking here, as the river is a central part of life in Bloomfield. There’s little in the way of commercial development, which helps maintain its serene atmosphere and natural beauty.
The town’s seclusion is enhanced by its riverside setting and the expansive rural landscapes that surround it. For me, Bloomfield is a place where the simplicity of nature takes center stage.
Where is Bloomfield?
Situated in the northeastern corner of Vermont, Bloomfield lies right along the Connecticut River, which forms the border with New Hampshire. Its remote location is amplified by the surrounding woodlands and the distance from major urban centers.
To get there, I usually follow Route 102, which meanders alongside the river and offers breathtaking views. The town’s position along this less-traveled route adds to its secluded charm, making Bloomfield a perfect destination for those seeking riverside tranquility.
5. Maidstone: Lakeside Seclusion in Vermont’s Wildlands
Home to about 208 residents, Maidstone is my go-to spot when I’m craving lakeside serenity. Maidstone Lake, the centerpiece of the town, offers crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, fishing, and quiet reflection.
I love renting a cabin by the lake and watching the sunrise over the water, surrounded by Vermont’s wildlands. The town’s main activities revolve around outdoor recreation, with little commercial industry to speak of.
Maidstone’s seclusion is due to its remote location and the fact that it’s one of the least developed towns in the state. It’s an idyllic retreat for anyone looking to unwind by the water in a peaceful, natural setting.
Where is Maidstone?
Maidstone is located in the Northeast Kingdom, nestled between the towns of Guildhall and Brunswick. Its seclusion is enhanced by the dense forests and the lack of major highways nearby.
I usually reach Maidstone by taking Route 102 and then venturing onto local roads that lead to the lake. The journey through the serene landscapes makes getting there part of the relaxation process. Maidstone’s hidden location ensures that it remains a quiet haven away from the crowds.
4. Guildhall: Historic Beauty in a Quiet Corner of Vermont
Guildhall, with a population of about 261, feels like stepping into a quaint New England postcard. I adore strolling through its quiet streets, admiring the historic architecture like the classic white-steepled church and the old courthouse.
The town’s main industries are modest, with a focus on agriculture and local services, which helps preserve its traditional charm. The rural surroundings and minimal development make Guildhall feel secluded, offering a peaceful atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere.
It’s a place where I can relax and appreciate the simplicity and beauty of a bygone era.
Where is Guildhall?
Located along the Connecticut River, Guildhall is in Vermont’s far northeast corner, directly across from Northumberland, New Hampshire. Its seclusion comes from its small size and the surrounding countryside that keeps it tucked away from busy towns.
To get there, I usually take Route 102, enjoying the scenic drive alongside the river. Guildhall’s distance from major thoroughfares ensures it remains a quiet retreat, perfect for those seeking a serene and historic setting.
3. Newark: Forest Hideaways Amidst Endless Greenery
With around 581 residents, Newark is a forested haven where I often go to feel enveloped by nature. The dense greenery provides a lush backdrop for hiking, bird-watching, and simply soaking in the tranquility.
Many homes here are tucked away along dirt roads, offering privacy and a true sense of escape. The town doesn’t have significant industry, which helps maintain its peaceful environment and natural allure.
Newark’s seclusion is largely due to its extensive woodlands and the minimal traffic that passes through. It’s an ideal spot if you’re looking to live immersed in Vermont’s natural beauty.
Where is Newark?
Newark is situated in Caledonia County, nestled between Burke and Island Pond. Its secluded nature is heightened by the surrounding forests and the absence of major highways. I usually reach Newark via Route 5 and then venture onto smaller roads that wind through the woods.
The journey through the endless greenery makes it clear why Newark is such a secluded gem in the Northeast Kingdom.
2. East Haven: A Secluded Mountain Town Away from it All
East Haven, home to about 290 residents, is a mountain town that I treasure for its sense of privacy and adventure. Surrounded by the rugged terrain of the Green Mountains, it’s perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and winter sports without the usual crowds.
I love exploring the abandoned radar base at the top of East Mountain, a hidden gem that adds a touch of mystery to the area. The town’s lack of significant industry contributes to its quiet atmosphere.
East Haven’s seclusion is due to its mountainous location and the limited number of visitors, offering a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts like myself.
Where is East Haven?
Located in Essex County, East Haven sits nestled between Burke and Victory. Its secluded setting is deepened by the surrounding mountains and forests that create a natural barrier from bustling towns.
To get there, I typically take Route 114 and then follow local roads that lead into the heart of the mountains. The journey offers stunning views and a sense of stepping away from the everyday.
East Haven’s remote location makes it a perfect destination for those seeking solitude in a mountainous landscape.
1. Brunswick: Discover Solitude in Vermont’s Northeast Corner
Brunswick, with a community of just about 112 people, is where I go when I truly want to find solitude. The untouched landscapes, including wetlands and forests, offer a serene environment for reflection and relaxation.
I enjoy canoeing along the Nulhegan River and exploring the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge nearby. There are no major industries, which helps maintain the town’s peaceful and undisturbed character.
Brunswick’s seclusion is a result of its location in Vermont’s northeast corner and the expansive natural areas that surround it. For me, it’s the ultimate spot to escape and immerse myself in nature’s quiet beauty.
Where is Brunswick?
Brunswick is perched in the far northeastern tip of Vermont, bordered by the Connecticut River to the east and Canada not too far north. Its isolation is emphasized by the limited road access and the surrounding wilderness areas.
I usually reach Brunswick by taking Route 105, a scenic route that meanders through the Northeast Kingdom. The town’s remote location and the journey to get there make it feel like a true hidden treasure, perfect for anyone seeking peace and quiet away from the busy world.
