Life on Burke Mountain is removed from the frenzy of the modern world. In part, because Burke is squarely in the middle of the Northeast Kingdom, an area that makes up one-fifth of Vermont’s size, yet just one-twentieth of its population. Those who live here are surrounded by mountains, forest, lakes, rivers and meadows (often dotted black and white with Vermont’s famous cows). This natural four-season wonderland presents recreational possibilities at every turn. Golfing, mountain biking (with some of the country’s best trails), fishing, boating, hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are at your doorstep. And, add diverse pleasures to the mix, from foliage peeping and sleigh rides to dining and music festivals.
How the name came about
This corner of the state was dubbed Northeast Kingdom by US Senator George Aiken (1941-1975) who said on a visit, “You know, this is such beautiful country up here, it should be called the Northeast Kingdom.”