How Wide Is Vermont? Total Distance from East to West

Vermont conjures images of pristine traditional American villages with white-steepled churches, maple syrup, and covered bridges. It’s a retreat where busy people in busy places might go for a drive to see autumn foliage, stroll along Lake Champlain, or hike the Green Mountains. Vermont is all this and more, packed into a “V-shaped” land area 157.4 miles from north to south and 90.3-41.6 miles wide from east to west. Read on to learn some unique facts about Vermont and how it compares to other states.

Facts About Vermont

• Vermont was the first new state added to the country that was not one of the original 13 colonies.
• The territory of Vermont was disputed between New York and New Hampshire.
• Vermont declared itself an independent republic for 14 years until becoming the 14th state in 1791.
• The state’s name comes from French words meaning “green mountain.”
• Vermont was famous for the “Green Mountain Boys,” a militia that protected the area from New York and fought in the American Revolution, the Civil War, and the Spanish-American War.
• Lake Champlain in the northwest has a moderating influence on the climate of northern Vermont.
• About 78% of the state is forested. Vermont is the largest producer of maple syrup in the U.S.
• Burlington, Vermont, was the birthplace of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream in 1978.

How Does Vermont Compare to Other States?

Vermont is the sixth smallest state by land. Five of the ten smallest states are all located in New England. The settlers in this region were typically Puritan religious dissenters who founded colonies for religious freedom to practice their beliefs. However, the separation of church and state was not yet established, so factions that differed theologically were unwelcome and ended up splitting off to form their colonies.

In addition to an independence-minded culture, the geography of New England is rocky, hilly, and subject to harsh winters. These conditions are conducive to small family farms, tight-knit local communities, and governments closely connected with the lives of their citizens.

The 10 Smallest States by Land Area

The chart below lists the ten smallest states in the country by land area, including Vermont. It also indicates which sovereign nation is closest in square miles to that state. Half of the smallest states are in the New England region.

The 10 Smallest States by Population

Vermont has the second-smallest population of any state. This table lists the ten smallest states in the country by population. It also indicates which sovereign nation has a similar number of residents as each state. Four of the least-populated states are located in the country’s Rocky Mountains and the Northern Great Plains regions.

Visiting a Small State

There’s a lot to be said for visiting a small state in terms of both land area and population. It’s not overcrowded with locals. Remember, though, there could be a lot of tourists depending on the time of year. This is especially the case during the peak of fall foliage. Another nice aspect of Vermont is that life generally moves slower. You’ll likely drive on smaller roads that connect you better to the local people and culture.

But one of the best things about Vermont is that you can see much of the state in a series of day trips over a week or so if you plan your route strategically. Skip the urge to drive to nearby states and cover as many miles as possible. Just take in Vermont for a week or two. For sure, a state famous for maple syrup and ice cream will give you some sweet, sweet memories!

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Sean Pavone/Shutterstock.com