A rural Vermont experience in Middletown Springs
Middletown Springs sits in the Poultney River valley in western Vermont, about 5 miles from the New York state border. Springs that drew settlers to the area in the late 1800s still bubble in the town center, and the surrounding Taconic Mountains lend a sense of seclusion. “It’s a little bit like living in a time warp, like you’re about 50 years behind the rest of the world,” says Erick Ericksen, a 25-year resident and former town representative for the Rutland Regional Planning Commission. Residents have a 15-mile drive to Rutland, the closest city, but the distance benefits new homebuyers. “It’s the quintessential rural Vermont experience,” Chris Fucci, president of real estate agency Chris Fucci Associates. “You’re going to get a rural property with more acreage — and for less money — than in some other communities.”
Fields and forests border farmhouses on sprawling multiacre lots
Many homes in Middletown Springs perch atop hills or peek out behind dense tree growth on rambling multiacre lots. When the forests yield to fields and farmland, the Taconic Mountains can be seen in the distance. “Middletown Springs has a family farm culture: a few houses and a lot of land,” says Fucci, who has been selling real estate in the Rutland area since 1972. Architectural styles vary, but prices typically range from $250,000 to $400,000 for farmhouses and ranch-style homes.
Vermont offers a high school choice program
Middletown Springs Elementary School sits at the junction of the town’s two major highways and receives a Niche grade of B-plus. Afterward, Vermont’s school-choice program allows students to apply to any school in the state for grades 7 through 12. Local options for public schools include Mill River Union High School, rated C-plus, and Poultney High School, rated C. If a student opts to attend a private school, such as A-rated Long Trail School in nearby Dorset, tax dollars will cover part of the cost, but families are expected to make up the difference.
Swimming, boating and hiking at Lake St. Catherine State Park
Visitors to Lake St. Catherine State Park can take a dip in the cobalt-blue lake or spread out for a picnic on the shore. Canoes, kayaks, rowboats and pedal boats are available, and scenic hiking trails offer views of the nearby mountains. On the eastern side of town, Sullivan Woods features an easy hiking loop suitable for families. Aspiring actors can hone their craft at Theater in the Woods, a youth summer camp that encourages spirited collaboration and respect for nature.
Coffee from Crossman’s and sweet treats at Mahar Maple Farm
Crossman’s General Store stands at the quiet four-way intersection in the center of town, making it a convenient place to grab coffee or a deli sandwich. Locals have been buying maple syrup and other treats from the sugar house at Mahar Maple Farm since 2002. About 10 miles away in West Rutland, Sweet Caroline’s is a popular spot for breakfast, and Price Chopper supermarket is right next door. Some shoppers head to Shaw’s in Poultney, about 10 miles west, for more retail and restaurants.
Traveling to Rutland on Vermont Route 133
Vermont Routes 133 and 140 intersect in the center of town. Route 133 leads 15 miles northeast to Rutland, but the road is currently riddled with potholes, so the trip might take longer than commuters expect. A paving project is scheduled for summer 2025. Cape Air offers three daily flights to Boston from Rutland-Southern Vermont Regional Airport, but travelers might opt to make the 80-mile drive to Burlington International Airport for more options. Rutland is also home to Rutland Regional Medical Center, the biggest community hospital in Vermont.
Middletown Springs Library hosts Pie for Breakfast
Every spring, the Middletown Springs Public Library hosts Pie for Breakfast at the local elementary school. Originally a cure for spring fever, the event has become one of the town’s most beloved traditions. The lineup features savory pies like pizza and quiche in addition to sweet treats, and all proceeds benefit the library. The town’s Memorial Day parade, typically held the Sunday before the holiday, is another major event in the area.
Middletown Springs Community Church supports mission efforts
The meeting house for the Middletown Springs Community Church has seen a lot since 1796. Although the building has been moved around and restructured a few times, it's been the congregation's home for more than two centuries. The church plays a large role in the community and supports several local, regional and international mission efforts.
