Milton, a sprawling 38,336-acre town is 15 miles north of Burlington. One of the fastest-growing communities in Chittenden County, the population of around 10,723 has quadrupled since 1960. Chartered in 1763, Milton was named after the English romantic poet John Milton, author of Paradise Lost. Early settlers made their livings off the land as lumberjacks, mill workers, and farmers. Today, there is just a handful of working farms in Milton. Many view the town as the best-kept secret in Chittenden County. With its plentiful open land, lovely woods, convenient lake access, and close proximity to Burlington, it almost does sound like a "Paradise Lost."
Milton Recreation
Milton has long been admired for its natural beauty with its impressive views of Lake Champlain, open farmland, the turbulent falls on the Lamoille River, and old-growth forest. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy canoeing, boating, and bird watching at Lake Arrowhead, on the north side of town. The lake is five miles long and one-half mile at its widest point. It was formed when the Lamoille River was dammed in 1938. Milton also offers swimming and boating access at nearby Sand Bar State Park, located just before the causeway to the Champlain Islands. This is a very popular place for swimmers, sail borders, picnickers, and boaters. Also not to be missed: a day hike on Eagle Mountain. Donated in 1995 to the Lake Champlain Land Trust, it is managed by the Town of Milton. Be warned that there are no facilities, but it is open from dawn to dusk and is one of the few easily accessed mountain trails in Chittenden County.
Milton Business
Milton's school district has been the major employer in the past years. However, in 1998, Husky, a machine manufacturer, opened its' doors and has since become Milton's largest employer. The town is undertaking a comprehensive plan for economic development, infrastructure and land use. This can be read on the Town of Milton's website.
Milton Education
The school district and the taxpayers have approved a major school expansion that will add a new wing to the Milton Elementary School on Herrick Avenue that will enable grades K-6 to be housed in the same building. The Milton Middle School and Milton High School are located together on Rebecca Lander Drive.