Ferdinand VT

Town Name: Ferdinand

Population: 16

Area: 52.8 SQ MILES

A Town Without a Town

Ferdinand was named after Prince Karl Wilhelm Ferdinand of Brunswick-Lunenburg but has never been formally organized as a town. Instead, it’s managed by the Unified Towns & Gores of Essex County, making it one of Vermont’s most unique and remote areas.

Life in Ferdinand

With just 16 residents spread across nearly 53 square miles, Ferdinand is truly an untouched wilderness. The Nulhegan River, a tributary of the Connecticut River, flows through the northern part of town, providing a habitat for moose, black bears, and a variety of bird species. The highest point, Seneca Mountain (3,170 feet), offers breathtaking views for those willing to make the trek.

Things to See & Do

Moose Bog – A prime location for birdwatching, especially for spotting the elusive Boreal Chickadee and Spruce Grouse
Seneca Mountain – A challenging hike with stunning views of Vermont’s wild landscapes

Outdoor Activities

Birdwatching – A hotspot for rare boreal species
Snowmobiling – A key stop on the VAST trail network
Hunting – Abundant wildlife and vast open land
Snowshoeing – Miles of untouched trails in deep wilderness

Did You Know?

Ferdinand’s population peaked at 213 residents in 1910 but has since dwindled, making it one of Vermont’s least populated places
It’s one of a handful of Vermont towns that doesn’t have an actual village center—just miles of forests, rivers, and mountains