There’s a bend in Vermont where the forest outpaces the road, where towns don’t sprawl—they tuck in. In the shadow of Groton State Forest, you’ll find places that haven’t been engineered for attention. These are towns like Cabot and Peacham, where the church bells still mark time better than a wristwatch and the horizon is shaped not by buildings but by tree lines and ridgelines.
This part of the state doesn’t market itself with artisanal branding or curated rusticity. It doesn’t need to. Life here is unscripted, guided by terrain and weather, by unpaved roads that dissolve into sugarbush and field. The map may list them plainly, but towns like Marshfield, Ryegate, and West Danville feel like suggestions more than settlements—whispers between ranges.
Groton State Forest stretches across this region like an old quilt: frayed in spots, soft in others, and deeply familiar to those who live beneath it. The lakes aren’t lined with resorts; they’re bordered by silence. The diners don’t trend online, but the coffee is strong and the stories are local. These are not escapes from modern life—they’re reminders that another pace is possible.
This is a place for those who don’t need an itinerary, who find direction in fog-shrouded valleys and reward in the quiet turn of a gravel road.
10. Cabot: Dairy Farms and Quiet Lanes
Cabot, with a population of approximately 1,400 residents, is a picturesque town known for its lush dairy farms and rolling hills. Visitors and locals alike can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing in the local streams, or visiting the famous Cabot Creamery to taste world-renowned cheeses.
Agriculture, particularly dairy farming, is the mainstay of Cabot’s economy, giving the town its pastoral charm. What makes Cabot truly secluded is its expansive rural landscapes dotted with open fields and quiet, winding lanes that invite you to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures of life.
The town’s minimal commercial development and close-knit community contribute to its tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect escape from the noise and crowds of larger cities. Cabot’s scenic beauty and serene environment make it a hidden gem for those seeking a genuine Vermont countryside experience.
Where is Cabot?
Cabot is located in Washington County, in the northeastern part of Vermont, nestled within the scenic beauty of the Groton State Forest region. Its secluded nature is enhanced by the surrounding hills and forests that provide a natural barrier from the outside world.
Reaching Cabot involves a leisurely drive through picturesque countryside along Route 215, which meanders through valleys and farmlands. This journey not only underscores the town’s remoteness but also offers breathtaking views that set the tone for a peaceful stay in this charming rural community.
9. Walden: Rustic Mountain Living
Walden is a small town with a population of around 935 people, offering a rustic lifestyle embraced by elevated terrains and dense forests. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore numerous hiking trails, enjoy bird watching, or visit Coles Pond for kayaking and fishing. The local economy is primarily based on small-scale agriculture and forestry, reflecting its deep connection with nature.
Walden’s seclusion comes from its elevated position in the Green Mountains, where the dense woodlands provide natural privacy and stunning mountain views that create an idyllic setting for those seeking a retreat from busy urban environments. The town’s peaceful ambiance is perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with the simplicity of rural life.
Where is Walden?
Situated in Caledonia County, Walden lies to the northwest of the Groton State Forest, enveloped by Vermont’s characteristic green peaks. Its secluded atmosphere is a result of its remote location, surrounded by miles of forested land with few major roads leading in or out.
Accessing Walden typically involves traveling along State Route 15 or 215, routes that weave through scenic landscapes and small villages. This isolation not only ensures peace and quiet but also allows residents and visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of Vermont’s rugged wilderness.
8. Plainfield: Countryside Peace
Plainfield, home to about 1,200 residents, embodies the essence of countryside serenity with its vast open spaces and friendly, close-knit community. The town offers recreational activities like exploring the local trails, visiting art studios, or attending concerts at the Goddard College’s Haybarn Theatre.
Small businesses and agriculture form the backbone of Plainfield’s economy, fostering a self-sufficient community spirit. The town’s seclusion is amplified by its location along the Winooski River, with surrounding hills and limited commercial development keeping the bustle of city life at bay, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solace in nature. Plainfield’s rich cultural scene and natural beauty make it a delightful place to explore.
Where is Plainfield?
Plainfield is located in Washington County, just east of Vermont’s capital, Montpelier, yet it feels worlds apart due to its rural setting. The town is nestled along Route 2, a quiet stretch that meanders through the countryside, enhancing its secluded ambiance.
The distance from major highways and urban centers contributes to its peaceful atmosphere. Getting to Plainfield involves a scenic drive through rolling hills and past picturesque farms, underscoring the tranquil environment that awaits those who make the journey.
7. West Danville: Secluded Lakeside Charm
West Danville, with a small population of around 200 people, is a charming community situated on the shores of Joe’s Pond. The area is popular for fishing, boating, and enjoying tranquil lakeside sunsets. The local economy revolves around small businesses catering to visitors and seasonal residents, as well as traditional Vermont industries like maple sugaring.
The seclusion of West Danville stems from its spacious lots, minimal traffic, and the calming presence of the water, providing a serene environment perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature. It’s a hidden haven for those who appreciate the quiet charm of lakeside living.
Where is West Danville?
Located in Caledonia County, West Danville is a village within the town of Danville, nestled near the northeastern edge of Groton State Forest. Its out-of-the-way location, away from major thoroughfares, enhances its secluded feel.
Access to West Danville is primarily via U.S. Route 2 and then local roads that wind through forested areas and past serene lakeside views. The journey itself underscores the village’s peaceful isolation, making it a delightful destination for those seeking a quiet retreat.
6. Barnet: Lakeside Solitude
Barnet is a quaint town of approximately 1,700 residents, offering the serenity of lakeside living with the natural beauty of Vermont’s landscapes. Visitors can enjoy Harvey’s Lake for swimming and boating or explore the historic Goodwillie House Museum for a touch of local history.
Agriculture and small businesses dominate the town’s economy, maintaining its rural character. Barnet’s seclusion is due to its expansive rural areas and the gentle embrace of nature, where large properties and minimal development ensure a peaceful lakeside retreat away from the busy world. The town’s tranquil setting makes it an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoying the simple pleasures of life.
Where is Barnet?
Situated in Caledonia County along the Connecticut River, Barnet lies to the east of Groton State Forest. Its secluded nature is accentuated by the surrounding hills and waterways, which provide natural boundaries from neighboring towns.
Travel to Barnet usually involves a scenic drive along Interstate 91, followed by smaller country roads that lead into the heart of the town. This route, flanked by river views and forested landscapes, contributes to the sense of escape that Barnet offers to residents and visitors alike.
5. Topsham: Hidden Valley Escapade
Topsham, with a modest population of around 1,100 residents, is a hidden gem nestled in the valleys of Orange County. Outdoor activities abound, including hiking in the Waits River Valley or exploring the historic East Orange Grange Hall. The town’s economy is primarily driven by agriculture and forestry, maintaining its unspoiled natural environment.
Seclusion in Topsham is enhanced by its natural barriers—hills and dense forests—that offer privacy and a serene rural lifestyle, making it a perfect spot for those yearning for solitude amidst nature. The town’s unhurried pace allows for a genuine connection with the land and community.
Where is Topsham?
Located in Orange County, Topsham is tucked away west of Groton State Forest. Its remote setting is made more pronounced by the limited access roads and the surrounding rugged terrain.
To reach Topsham, one typically travels along smaller state routes like VT-25, navigating through picturesque valleys and forests. This off-the-beaten-path location adds to its charm, providing an authentic experience of Vermont’s tranquil countryside away from the well-trodden tourist paths.
4. Ryegate: Serenity by the Border
Ryegate is a sparsely populated town of about 1,200 people that offers a serene lifestyle near the New Hampshire border. Activities here revolve around enjoying the outdoors, like fishing in the Wells River or visiting the Ryegate Corner Historic District. With its economy rooted in agriculture and small businesses, Ryegate maintains a simplistic charm.
The town’s seclusion is characterized by large plots of land, minimal traffic, and expansive views, making it an ideal place for those seeking peace and quiet in a rural setting. Ryegate’s peaceful roads and landscapes invite visitors to slow down and savor the serenity.
Where is Ryegate?
Situated in the southeastern corner of Caledonia County, Ryegate borders the Connecticut River and New Hampshire. Its secluded atmosphere is a result of its peripheral location and the natural barriers provided by the river and surrounding hills.
Accessing Ryegate involves traveling along Interstate 91 and then meandering through local roads that embrace the natural contours of the land. This journey enhances the sense of serenity, as travelers leave behind busier areas and enter the tranquil landscapes that define Ryegate.
3. Marshfield: A Quiet Retreat
Marshfield is home to roughly 1,600 residents and offers a peaceful retreat characterized by spacious farmlands and forested areas. Visitors can explore the Marshfield Pond or hike the trails of the nearby Groton State Forest. The local economy is driven by small-scale agriculture and a growing community of artisans and craftsmen.
The town’s seclusion is embodied in its open landscapes and the absence of heavy development, allowing for unobstructed views and a sense of tranquility that is hard to find in more populous areas. Marshfield provides an ideal backdrop for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and local culture.
Where is Marshfield?
Located in Washington County, just west of Groton State Forest, Marshfield enjoys a secluded position amid Vermont’s rolling countryside. Its remoteness is due in part to its distance from major highways, with Route 2 being the primary access point.
Driving to Marshfield takes you through scenic rural areas, reinforcing the feeling of escaping to a quiet haven. The town’s location offers easy access to natural attractions while maintaining a comfortable distance from the hustle of larger towns.
2. Peacham: Vermont’s Scenic Overlook
Peacham, with a population of approximately 730 people, is often celebrated as one of Vermont’s most picturesque villages. The town offers panoramic vistas from its rolling hills, opportunities for hiking, and historical sites like the Peacham Congregational Church.
Agriculture and tourism are key industries, with visitors drawn to its stunning landscapes and classic New England charm. Peacham’s seclusion comes from its elevated location and lack of through-traffic, providing a tranquil environment where the beauty of the changing seasons can be fully appreciated. The town’s timeless scenery has even attracted filmmakers and artists seeking inspiration.
Where is Peacham?
Nestled in Caledonia County, southeast of Groton State Forest, Peacham is accessed primarily via local roads that wind through the countryside. Its remote location atop high hills contributes to its sense of isolation and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The absence of major highways keeps Peacham off the beaten path, ensuring that even during peak tourist seasons, the town retains its peaceful atmosphere. Driving to Peacham is a scenic journey that heightens the anticipation of reaching this hidden gem.
1. Groton: Heart of the Forest
Groton, with an approximate population of 1,000 residents, is the quintessential secluded town embraced by the vastness of Groton State Forest. Outdoor enthusiasts can immerse themselves in activities like hiking the nature trails, fishing in pristine lakes, or camping under the stars at one of the park’s campsites. The town’s economy revolves around tourism, forestry, and small businesses that cater to visitors of the state forest.
Groton’s seclusion is inherent in its surroundings; being enveloped by expansive woodlands and serene lakes, it offers a complete immersion into nature away from the distractions of modern life. The community’s warm hospitality and the untouched natural environment make Groton a true haven for those looking to get away.
Where is Groton?
Located in southern Caledonia County, Groton sits at the heart of the Groton State Forest region. Its seclusion is a product of its extensive forested surroundings, with limited access routes that enhance its off-the-grid feel.
Traveling to Groton involves navigating scenic roads like U.S. Route 302, which passes through small towns and dense forests. This journey through nature sets the stage for arriving in a place where the hustle and bustle fade away, leaving only the tranquility of the forest and the warmth of a small community.
