Essex County, Vermont
Essex County occupies the northeastern corner of Vermont and is the least populated county in the state. It’s a place where wilderness takes center stage, with the Connecticut River forming much of the eastern border with New Hampshire.
Winter transforms Essex County into a paradise for snowmobilers, with hundreds of miles of trails winding through the forests and countryside. The Nulhegan Basin is a top destination for wildlife viewing, while the area’s rivers and waterways offer excellent opportunities for fishing and canoeing.
Fall is another spectacular season, with vibrant foliage that often lasts longer than in southern Vermont. Island Pond, the county’s largest community, has a long history as a railroad town and now serves as a gateway to outdoor recreation.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Essex County |
| County Seat | Guildhall |
| Population | Approximately 6,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Canaan, Concord, Brighton, Lunenburg, Guildhall |
| Interstates and Highways | US-2, VT-105, VT-102 |
| FIPS Code | 50-009 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 675 sq mi (Land: 664 sq mi; Water: 11 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Coös County, New Hampshire (East), Grafton County, New Hampshire (South), Caledonia County (Southwest), Orleans County (West) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | Vermont |
| Coordinates | 44.6219° N, 71.6083° W |
| Etymology | Likely named after Essex, England |
| Major Landmarks | Maidstone State Park, Brighton State Park, Connecticut River |
