From the US News & World Report

Move to Vermont. It’s the healthiest state in the nation, according to one recent study
By Amy Golod
Posted December 18, 2008

The green mountain state recently finished first in rankings of the healthiest states (Louisiana finished last). Each year, the United Health Foundation, in conjunction with the American Public Health Association and the Partnership for Prevention, ranks states based on individual habits of residents, community and environment, public and health policy, and accessible care.

Enjoy living in rural Vermont, the snowmobile capitol of the northeast.

Island Pond, located in the Brighton District, is known to be a beautiful and quiet Northeast Kingdom town. Perhaps one of Vermont's best kept secrets, Island Pond's natural beauty consists of pristine Island Pond Lake, the historical district and Bluff Mountain. Together they provide many recreational activities throughout the year.

With miles of trails and wide open spaces, Island Pond has become the Snowmobile Capital of Vermont. Tourists can also enjoy other outdoor activities including fishing, hunting, swimming, hiking, biking, canoeing, horseback riding, cross-country and downhill skiing, and scenic lake cruises. In the fall, the foliage offers spectacular scenery for outdoor enthusiasts. In the winter, there are snowmobile races on Island Pond Lake. One of the town's major annual events is the Fourth of July celebration featuring a parade, music in the park, arts and crafts, vendors, games, fireworks and more.

Island Pond is famous internationally for being the first international railroad junction in the United States, and our often-photographed railroad station. The town experienced economic growth in 1853 when the Atlantic and St. Lawrence Railroad (the first international railroad), included Brighton as the stop between Portland, Maine and Montreal, Canada.