Where is Vermont Located in the United States?

Vermont is located in the northeastern United States, known for its picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and the stunning beauty of its fall foliage. The state is a part of the New England region and has a largely rural character, with small towns and villages scattered throughout. Vermont is recognized for its production of maple syrup, its dairy industry, and its outdoor recreational activities such as skiing and hiking. The state boasts a strong environmental consciousness and is a popular destination for nature lovers.

State Name: Vermont
Postal Abbreviation: VT
Population: 643,000 (2023 estimate)
Area: 9,616 square miles
Capital: Montpelier
Largest City: Burlington
Statehood Year: 1791 (14th state)
Time Zones: Eastern Time Zone

Bordering States of Vermont

New York

To the west, Vermont shares a border with New York, divided largely by Lake Champlain and parts of the Hudson River watershed. The two states are connected via several bridges, ferries, and highways, including the Lake Champlain Bridge. While Vermont and New York share similar climates, the regions differ in terms of geography and economy. The Adirondack Mountains in New York mirror the rugged terrain of Vermont’s Green Mountains, creating a shared outdoor recreation industry. Economically, Burlington and Plattsburgh, NY, maintain strong ties, with cross-border commuting and commerce. Lake Champlain, in particular, is a major resource for both states, supporting fishing, tourism, and transport.

New Hampshire

To the east, Vermont is bordered by New Hampshire, with the Connecticut River forming much of the natural boundary between the two states. While the river separates the states, their cultures and economies are closely linked, especially in rural areas. The Upper Valley, which includes towns like White River Junction, VT, and Hanover, NH, is a significant regional hub, home to Dartmouth College and a growing health care sector. Residents often travel across the river for work, shopping, and recreation, and many major highways, like Interstate 91, cross the border, facilitating easy access between the two states. Outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and fishing are popular along the shared border.

Massachusetts

To the south, Vermont borders Massachusetts, with the boundary running through rural, hilly terrain. The southern Vermont towns of Brattleboro and Bennington are economically and culturally linked to northern Massachusetts. The area is known for its historical significance during the American Revolution, particularly with sites like the Bennington Battlefield. Economically, the two states share similar agricultural and tourism industries, and there are strong cross-border ties in commerce and education. Interstate 91 serves as a major transportation route between the two states, connecting Vermont’s rural communities with the more populous areas of Massachusetts.

Quebec (Canada)

To the north, Vermont shares an international border with the Canadian province of Quebec. The border is marked by rolling farmland and small border towns like Derby Line and Highgate Springs. The region is known for its cross-border tourism, with many Canadians visiting Vermont for skiing, shopping, and vacations. Similarly, Vermonters often travel into Quebec, particularly to Montreal, a major city less than 100 miles from Burlington. The border crossings at Highgate Springs and Derby Line are important for trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges, as Vermont maintains strong economic and cultural ties with Quebec.

GPS Coordinates of Vermont

Vermont is situated in the northeastern United States, with its general GPS coordinates centered around 44.0° N latitude and 72.7° W longitude, placing it in the heart of New England. Its location gives the state a varied climate, characterized by cold winters, mild summers, and beautiful seasonal changes, particularly during the fall.

• Northern Coordinates: Vermont’s northernmost point lies near the border with Quebec, close to the town of North Troy, at approximately 45.0054° N. This area is part of Vermont’s rural, agricultural northern region, with rolling hills, forests, and farms. The northern border is dotted with small towns and border crossings, such as Derby Line, where U.S. Route 5 enters Quebec. The border region is known for its dairy farms and outdoor recreation opportunities, particularly snowmobiling and skiing in the winter months.
• Southern Coordinates: The southernmost point of Vermont is near the town of Pownal, located at approximately 42.7269° N latitude, close to the border with Massachusetts. This part of the state is part of the Taconic Mountains and the Green Mountain National Forest, known for its rugged terrain and outdoor activities. Pownal and the nearby town of Bennington serve as gateways to the southern Vermont region, which is known for its history, scenic landscapes, and proximity to the Berkshires in Massachusetts.
• Eastern Coordinates: Vermont’s easternmost point is along the Connecticut River, near the town of Guildhall, at approximately 71.5036° W longitude. The river forms the natural boundary between Vermont and New Hampshire. The Connecticut River Valley is known for its fertile farmland, small towns, and outdoor activities like fishing and boating. The valley also plays a significant role in the regional economy, particularly in agriculture and tourism.
• Western Coordinates: The westernmost point of Vermont is along the shores of Lake Champlain, near the town of Isle La Motte, at approximately 73.4377° W longitude. This area, part of the Champlain Islands, is known for its scenic beauty, historic sites, and recreational opportunities. Lake Champlain serves as a vital resource for the region, supporting fishing, boating, and tourism. It also acts as a natural boundary between Vermont and New York, with ferry services connecting the two states.

These GPS coordinates reflect Vermont’s location in the New England region, where the state is defined by its rural character, mountainous terrain, and beautiful waterways. Vermont’s geography provides a wide range of outdoor activities and contributes to the state’s reputation as a scenic destination, particularly during the autumn months when its forests display vibrant fall colors.

Levels of Elevation in Vermont

Vermont’s elevation varies significantly across the state, with mountainous regions, rolling hills, and low-lying river valleys creating a diverse topography that is essential to its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.

• Highest Elevation: The highest point in Vermont is Mount Mansfield, which rises to 4,393 feet (1,339 meters) above sea level. Located in the northern part of the state, near the town of Stowe, Mount Mansfield is part of the Green Mountains and is a popular destination for hikers, skiers, and nature enthusiasts. The mountain offers spectacular views of Vermont’s landscape and is home to a variety of alpine ecosystems. It also features several popular hiking trails, including portions of the Long Trail.
• Lowest Elevation: The lowest point in Vermont is 95 feet (29 meters) above sea level, located at the shores of Lake Champlain. This large freshwater lake lies on Vermont’s western border with New York and provides critical water resources, recreation, and scenic beauty for the region. Lake Champlain is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping, with several state parks located along its shores.
• Average Elevation: The average elevation of Vermont is approximately 1,000 feet (305 meters) above sea level. Much of the state consists of rolling hills and valleys, particularly in the Green Mountains and Taconic Mountains that stretch across the central and western regions. The eastern portion of the state, along the Connecticut River Valley, is lower in elevation and features fertile farmland and small river towns.

Vermont’s varied elevation plays a significant role in its climate, with the mountainous areas experiencing cooler temperatures and more snowfall during the winter months, making the state a popular destination for skiing and other winter sports. The lower elevations, particularly near Lake Champlain and the Connecticut River, tend to have milder temperatures, supporting agriculture and year-round tourism.

Most Extreme Points of Vermont

Vermont’s geographic extremes, from its northern border with Canada to its southern reaches along the Massachusetts line, highlight the diversity of the state’s landscapes and communities.

• Easternmost Point: Vermont’s easternmost point is near the town of Guildhall, located along the Connecticut River, at approximately 71.5036° W. Guildhall is part of Vermont’s rural, northeastern region, characterized by rolling hills, farmland, and forests. The Connecticut River serves as the natural border with New Hampshire and is an important waterway for the region. This area is known for its outdoor recreation, including fishing, kayaking, and hiking in the nearby White Mountains.
• Westernmost Point: The westernmost point of Vermont is near the town of Alburgh, located along the northern shores of Lake Champlain, at approximately 73.4377° W. This region is part of the Champlain Islands, known for their scenic beauty, historic sites, and recreational opportunities. Lake Champlain serves as a critical resource for both Vermont and New York, supporting a variety of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and birdwatching. The Champlain Islands are a popular summer destination for tourists seeking quiet retreats and outdoor adventures.
• Southernmost Point: The southernmost point of Vermont is near the town of Pownal, at approximately 42.7269° N, along the Massachusetts border. Pownal is part of Vermont’s Taconic Mountain region, known for its rugged landscapes and historic charm. This area is close to the town of Bennington, a hub of Revolutionary War history, and is near the cultural attractions of western Massachusetts. The southern border region is known for its rolling hills, forests, and historic sites, making it a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.
• Northernmost Point: The northernmost point in Vermont is located near the town of North Troy, at the U.S.-Canada border, at approximately 45.0054° N. This area is part of Vermont’s rural Northeast Kingdom, known for its scenic beauty, forests, and outdoor recreation opportunities. The region is dotted with small towns and farmland, and the border crossing into Quebec is important for trade, tourism, and cross-border family connections. The northern reaches of Vermont are famous for their unspoiled natural beauty and are a gateway to the outdoor adventures available in both Vermont and Quebec.

These extreme points showcase the geographic diversity of Vermont, from the high peaks of the Green Mountains to the low-lying shores of Lake Champlain and the Connecticut River. Each region offers a unique mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and historical significance, making Vermont a state rich in both natural and cultural resources.

Major Mountains in Vermont

Vermont is known for its mountainous terrain, particularly the Green Mountains, which run from north to south and form the backbone of the state. These mountains are part of the Appalachian Mountain Range and play a central role in Vermont’s identity, outdoor recreation, and economy.

• Green Mountains: The Green Mountains are the most prominent mountain range in Vermont, extending nearly the entire length of the state. The range includes Vermont’s highest peak, Mount Mansfield, at 4,393 feet. The Green Mountains are known for their dense forests, alpine meadows, and scenic views. The Long Trail, a 272-mile hiking trail, runs the length of the range and is one of the oldest long-distance hiking trails in the United States. Popular destinations in the Green Mountains include the towns of Stowe and Killington, which are well-known for their ski resorts and year-round outdoor activities.
• Mount Mansfield: Mount Mansfield is Vermont’s tallest mountain and a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts. Located near Stowe, the mountain is a year-round destination, offering skiing in the winter and hiking, climbing, and sightseeing during the warmer months. The Stowe Mountain Resort is one of the state’s premier ski areas, and the summit of Mount Mansfield provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains to the west.
• Camel’s Hump: Camel’s Hump, at 4,083 feet, is Vermont’s third-highest peak and one of the state’s most recognizable landmarks. Located in the Green Mountain National Forest, Camel’s Hump is known for its distinct, camel-like shape and its prominence in Vermont’s landscape. The mountain is a popular destination for hiking and nature observation, offering a variety of trails that lead to its rocky summit. The views from the top are some of the best in the state, with expansive vistas of the Green Mountains, the Champlain Valley, and the Adirondacks.
• Killington Peak: Killington Peak, at 4,241 feet, is the second-highest mountain in Vermont and home to the famous Killington Ski Resort, the largest ski area in the eastern United States. Killington is a year-round recreation hub, offering skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and hiking. The Appalachian Trail and Long Trail both pass near the summit, making it a popular stop for long-distance hikers. The mountain’s diverse terrain and scenic beauty attract visitors throughout the year.
• Jay Peak: Jay Peak, at 3,862 feet, is located in the northern part of Vermont, close to the Canadian border. Jay Peak is known for its ski resort, which receives some of the highest snowfall in the eastern U.S., making it a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders. In the summer, Jay Peak offers hiking, mountain biking, and golfing, with stunning views of the Green Mountains and the Northeast Kingdom.

These mountains not only shape Vermont’s physical landscape but also contribute to the state’s economy, particularly through tourism and outdoor recreation. The Green Mountains are central to Vermont’s identity, offering residents and visitors access to some of the best hiking, skiing, and scenic views in New England.

Major Rivers and Lakes in Vermont

Vermont is home to several significant rivers and lakes, which are vital to the state’s natural environment, economy, and recreational activities. These waterways support agriculture, industry, and tourism, while also providing residents and visitors with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.

• Connecticut River: The Connecticut River forms Vermont’s entire eastern border with New Hampshire, flowing for 410 miles from the Canadian border to Long Island Sound. The river is essential to the region’s agriculture, providing water for farming and supporting a variety of wildlife habitats. The Connecticut River Valley is known for its fertile soils, making it an important agricultural area for both Vermont and New Hampshire. The river also offers recreational opportunities, including boating, fishing, and kayaking, with several parks and nature reserves located along its banks.
• Lake Champlain: Lake Champlain is Vermont’s largest lake, covering more than 490 square miles and forming much of the state’s western border with New York. The lake is a key resource for both states, supporting fishing, recreation, and tourism. Popular activities on the lake include boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. The lake is also historically significant, having played a role in several battles during the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812. Towns like Burlington and Shelburne sit along its shores, providing access to the lake’s many attractions, including the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum.
• Winooski River: The Winooski River is one of the most important rivers in Vermont, flowing for 90 miles from the Green Mountains to Lake Champlain. The river passes through the state’s largest city, Burlington, and provides water for agriculture and industry along its course. Historically, the Winooski River was a key transportation route for the early settlers and was heavily used for logging. Today, the river is popular for fishing, kayaking, and tubing, and it supports a variety of wildlife, including fish, birds, and mammals.
• Otter Creek: Otter Creek is Vermont’s longest river entirely within the state, flowing for 112 miles from Mount Tabor in the Green Mountains to Lake Champlain. The river passes through several towns, including Middlebury and Vergennes, where it is used for both recreation and hydropower. Otter Creek is popular with anglers, particularly for trout fishing, and offers scenic views along its course. The river’s fertile floodplains support agriculture in the surrounding areas, particularly dairy farming.
• Lake Memphremagog: Lake Memphremagog straddles the U.S.-Canada border, with much of the lake located in Quebec. In Vermont, the lake is a major attraction in the town of Newport, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake’s name, derived from the Abenaki language, means “where there is a big expanse of water,” and it lives up to this description with its clear waters and scenic surroundings. Lake Memphremagog is also a key resource for cross-border trade and tourism, with visitors from both Vermont and Quebec enjoying its natural beauty.

These rivers and lakes are integral to Vermont’s natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle, offering opportunities for recreation, conservation, and tourism. The state’s waterways are essential for agriculture, wildlife habitats, and supporting the local economy, particularly in areas like fishing, boating, and eco-tourism.