Topsham is a sprawling rural community that offers a quiet lifestyle
The rural community of Topsham, located in north-central Vermont, is home to about 1,200 souls who enjoy a secluded lifestyle where peace and quiet trump convenience. Those who live here take advantage of the area’s natural beauty, especially in the fall when the Green Mountains burst with vibrant shades of red, orange and yellow, before giving way to the cold, snowy winters.
Homes are spread out on plenty of land
The area's housing here offers a diverse mix of architectural styles, from farmhouse to Colonial Revival to Cape Cod. Homes here, some dating back to the 1800s, are typically spaced far apart along rural country roads. “You’ll find farms, which you don’t see a lot of in Vermont anymore,” says Michelle Gosselin of Heney Realtors. “There’s also lots of mountain views.” Prices typically range from the high $100,000s to the mid-$400,000s. “You’re farther out, more remote, so prices will be a little less,” Gosselin says.
Be prepared for winters, spring mud season
While homeowners enjoy cool summers and colorful fall foliage, they need to be prepared for winters that can include heavy snowfall. Gosselin says a couple of feet is typical. Homeowners should also be aware of what happens when it warms up in a community where paved roads are a luxury. “We have mud season in Vermont. It’s usually in April,” Gosselin says. “That’s when the snow melts on the dirt roads.” Gosselin adds that this can result in back roads becoming unpassable.
Landscape lends itself to snowmobiling, skiing
The natural, wooded landscape is a popular place for snowmobilers. The community includes an access lot for a network of trails that is used by clubs affiliated with the Vermont Association of Snow Travelers. The nearby Northeast Slopes is a ski area that has been a regional stop for nearly 90 years. The community is also home to the Waits River and several branches, which are known for their stock of trout. The neighboring town of Groton features the Groton State Forest, which includes seven state parks nestled among several waterways, including Lake Groton and Ricker Pond. The diverse recreational spaces cater to boaters, watercraft enthusiasts, beachgoers, anglers, hikers and bike riders.
Country stores offer food and essentials
Residents can find groceries and essentials at Waits River Deli & Country Store, a popular community destination known for its homemade food. Upper Valley Grill and General Store offers a similar setting in Groton. Crossmolina Farm is a regional attraction in neighboring Corinth. The family-run farm offers a selection of produce and hosts regular events, including Pizza Nights with live music.
Older students can choose their high school
Waits River Valley Union School District 36, part of the Orange East Supervisory Union, serves younger students in Topsham and East Corinth. Waits River Valley School, a K-8 institution rated C-plus by Niche, is the only school in the district. It is typical of rural districts to not include high schools. Older students can pick their school, and have their tuition paid for, under Vermont’s high school choice program.
U.S. Route 302 connects residents to other communities
U.S. Route 302, known locally as William Scott Memorial Highway, is the primary roadway connecting the region’s communities. Vermont Route 25 connects to the highway on the west side of Topsham. Powder Spring Road connects to the highway in Groton. Route 302 provides access east to Interstate 91, about 15 miles away near the New Hampshire border. Montpelier, the state capital, and Interstate 89 are about a 25-mile drive west via Route 302. Cottage Hospital and Central Vermont Medical Center are both about 20 miles from the community. The international airport in Burlington is about 60 miles away via I-89.
The community's CAP Index score of 1-out-of-10 signifies an area with the lowest possible crime rate.
Written By
Matt Pallister