Sterling

Vermont's ghost towns are marble and granite quarries and hill farms the westward migration emptied.

Sterling College was a private work college in Craftsbury Common, Vermont. Its degree-granting curriculum was focused on ecological thinking and action through a major in Environmental Studies, with concentrations in Ecology, Environmental Humanities, Outdoor Education, and Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems. The college was accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). Sterling closed in May 2026, citing persistent financial and enrollment challenges.

The on-the-ground condition of Sterling is unverified — it's listed here with unknown status. That could mean standing buildings, or an empty field. Go prepared for either, and consider sharing what you find so the record improves.

Nobody has confirmed the access situation, so treat any visit as reconnaissance: verify land ownership first, and be ready to admire from the road.

Here's the honest truth: access to Sterling is unverified. We couldn't confirm whether the site sits on public land, private property, or something in between — so verify land ownership and local rules before visiting, and respect private property at all times. The mapped point for Sterling is roughly 44.6523, -72.3823 — use it as a starting point and cross-reference a current topographic map before leaving pavement.

Ghost-town etiquette is simple: take only photographs. Removing artifacts is illegal on public lands and disrespectful everywhere else — and on federal land it can be a serious offense.