fall foliage trip to vermont

Northeast Kingdom

Fall foliage in vermont 2024, vibrant color takes over the green mountains.

Much of the brilliant red, orange, and gold color is from native sugar maples, which are abundant in Vermont (the flip side of fall foliage is the sugaring season in late winter, when maple sap begins to flow). Plan ahead to see fall foliage in Vermont, because people from around the world flock here. Best option: reserve lodgings in a mountain resort or sweet inn for a romantic getaway and stay awhile.

Essential Information :

• Foliage Map (Old Farmers' Almanac)
• Vermont State Map
• Pick Your Own Farms : Make a pit stop for apples, cider, baked goods, veggies or pumpkins
• Great Things to Do in Vermont

Foliage Driving Routes in Vermont

Route 100 from wilmington to waterbury (140 mi.).

Points of Interest:

• Vermont Country Store in Weston, VT : This nationally-known store is stocked with household goods, clothing, toys of every description, and lots of nostalgic items from generations past. The kids will love the old-fashioned candy selection!
• Jamaica State Park : Located on a bend of the West River , it's a great spot for relaxing, walking, swimming, fishing, & camping. Nearby Hamilton Falls is a beautifully photogenic waterfall where the waters of Cobb Brook leap 125ft. down a steep rock face.
• Covered Bridges: The Pine Brook / Wilder Bridge (build 1872) and the Big Eddy Bridge (built in 1833) are in the town of Waitsfield, VT . Also in Waitsfield, enjoy a satisfying walk on the Mad River Path , starting at the General Wait House and heading south to Mad River Green . The path through Waitsfield is 1.7mi. - See More VT Covered Bridges
• Weston is a beautiful and cultured town, and also designated as a National Historic District. The charming gazebo in a public park in the town center draws photographers like a magnet. Check out the three galleries in town and visit with local artists & craftsmen. Weston hosts live theater at the Weston Theater Company .

Side Trips:

• Grafton, VT : Viewed from the rocker-lined porch of the Old Tavern and Grafton Inn , the village center is straight from central casting for a sweet Vermont town. Old Tavern and Grafton Inn, Grafton Ponds Outdoor Center , and Grafton Cheese Co. are among the favorite stops for visitors.
• Artisans Park in Windsor, VT : This charming cul-de-sac is a collection of 8 unique Vermont businesses clustered near the Path of Life Sculpture Garden . Here visitors will find Harpoon Brewery, SILO Distillery, Blake Hill Preserves , and Vermont Farmstead Cheese Company Market .
• At Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury Center, visitors can watch cider being pressed the old-fashioned way and taste it from a sample tank. Enjoy lunch at the Cafe at Cold Hollow . You will be surrounded by glorious views of all sides.
• Homestyle Hotel in Ludlow, VT . Welcoming atmosphere and friendly service at this inn and restaurant. Diners praise the cornmeal crusted artichokes, curry cauliflower, arugula salad and lemon poppy seed ice cream and lemongrass sorbet. Cocktails are unique and delicious.
• Country Girl Diner in Chester, VT serves classic diner fare, 100 percent fresh, much of it sourced from Vermont farms. Doors open at 7 a.m. for breakfast and lunch.

Manchester to Bennington to Williamstown, MA (74 mi.)

• Two wonderful shopping venues in Manchester: Manchester Designer Outlets and the Northshire Bookstore . The outlets have all the brand names you love; the bookstore is welcoming and the staff members are devoted readers.
• Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home in Manchester : Beautiful home and grounds built by Abraham Lincoln’s son, a 19th-century railroad executive. Check website for visiting hours.
• Robert Frost Stone House in South Shaftsbury : Visit the poet who taught us about mending walls. Check website for visiting hours.
• Bennington Battle Monument in Old Bennington : Climb this historic obelisk for great views and photos.
• The Clark Art Institute in Williamstown, MA : Simply the best in art museums, in New England or anywhere. Gorgeous grounds & lots of public entertainments.
• Somerset Reservoir and Somerset Reservoir Trail near Wilmington : This is a very secluded lake. There are no shops, ranger stations or private residences around. People use this lake for kayaking & canoeing.

Dining and Shopping:

• Blue Benn Diner in Bennington : Love diners? We do, too. Old-school diner with easy access to blueberry pancakes with local maple syrup.
• Once you're done exploring at The Clark, consider dining at the nearby Mezze Bistro + Bar in Williamstown .
• Honora Winery & Vineyard in Jacksonville, VT : This side trip 12 miles southeast of Searsbury, VT takes you to an in-town wine tasting room or outdoors along a lake with heron and tall pines nearby.
• Take another quick side trip to West Dover, VT for a meal at the The West Dover Inn and 1846 Tavern & Restaurant . The name conveys the atmosphere: informal and down-to-Earth. Solid wines and hearty food.

Brattleboro to Whitingham through Mount Snow (100mi.)

• Brattleboro Museum & Art Center in Brattleboro : Art is presented in an old train station, with the old ticket windows still intact and marble steps worn by generations of travelers.
• Newfane Common . Get out of the car and take a stroll through this classic Vermont town green.
• Mount Snow : Scenic chairlift rides take you to the summit of this ski resort even in the off-season. Enjoy beautiful surrounding views with highlights like Somerset Reservoir and Mount Monadnock . If a mealtime is near, grab lunch and a craft beer at The Bullwheel.
• Adams Family Farm in Wilmington : This is a working farm that welcomes visitors. The petting farm and farm store are open year-round, daily except Mondays.
• Molly Stark State Park in Wilmington : Hiking trails lead to the Mount Olga fire tower for magnificent mountain views. - Trail Guide (PDF)
• Royal Diner in Brattleboro : Fill your personal fuel tank at the start or end of your drive at this vintage 1938 diner. Daily specials, generous portions, and easy pricing. Take-out is available for every item.
• Saxtons River Distillery in Brattleboro . Maple liqueur? We’re in Vermont, aren’t we? Just off I-91, Saxtons River Distillery invites you to see how handcrafted spirits are made and to take home some samples of these unique liquors.
• Dot’s Restaurant in Wilmington : Nothing less than “a national treasure,” according to no one less than Gourmet Magazine . A favorite of locals with solid American food.
• Readsboro Inn in Readsboro : Good for the groaning farmers breakfast. Brace yourself for excellent pizza, sweet potato fries and the catfish (yes, catfish!) special.
• Town Hill Pottery in Whitingham : The studios of Aysha Peltz and Todd Wahlstrom - Peltz’s pots are porcelain, evoking natural forms and architecture. Wahlstrom’s pots are dark stoneware clay or white clay and have richly patterned surfaces.
• J’ville Craft Brewery in Jacksonville : Come in for a small-batch craft beer, a five-cheese grilled cheese sandwich, and genuine hospitality.

Lakes Bomoseen and St. Catherine Loop (55mi.)

• Bomoseen State Park in Castleton, VT : Lovely lakeside park in the state’s slate-producing region. Notice quarry holes & slate buildings.
• Lake St. Catherine State Park in Poultney, VT : Once a children's summer camp & farmland, this popular park has tent and lean-to sites, grassy open areas, woods, and a lovely lake.
• Vermont Marble Museum and Gift Shop in Proctor, VT : Learn the history of this classic stone, and how Vermont quarrymen & masons turned in into an industry and art form.
• Wilson Castle in Proctor, VT : Castle and estate are a blend of European architectural styles and home to five generations of the Wilson family. Public tours are offered.
• Birdseye Diner in Castleton, VT : Originally the building was a 1940’s Silk City Dining Car. Today, the Birdseye chow is a staple of the community.
• Mendon Mountain Orchards in Rutland : This family-owned orchard welcomes you for pick-your-own apple harvesting, and there's the bakery too.

Upper Connecticut River Valley Loop (115mi.)

• Billings Farm and Museum in Woodstock : Picturesque working farm & museum re-creates the culture and folkways of Vermont farming before the machine age. Fun for kids.
• Simon Pearce Glass in Windsor, VT . This world-famous maker of glass artworks & functional glassware welcomes visitors for shopping and to view glassblowing. Call ahead for demonstration times.
• Plymouth Cheese Company in Plymouth, VT : Open daily for self-guided tours, historic museum & factory gift shop with informational cheese tastings and local VT made products.
• Quechee Gorge and Quechee State Park in Quechee, VT : Visitors can look down at the Ottauquechee River, 165 feet below, from Route 4.
• Killington Ski Area in Killington, VT : Ski areas don’t limit their activities to the snow seasons. Enjoy great vistas, dining on the mountains and fall events like the Brewfest and Oktoberfest.
• Babes Bar in Bethel, VT : located in a former train depot in the center of town, this is the place to find a signature Chicago-style hot dog.
• Harpoon Taps and Beer Garden in Windsor : Taste a full selection of Harpoon beers straight from the brewery and take a guided tour of the brewery Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
• Windsor Station Restaurant and Barroom in Windsor : Located in a historic train station, this eatery craft beer, farm-to-table Vermont food. It’s part of the Vermont Fresh Network , promoting local foods.
• Quechee Gorge Village in Quechee : This collection of stores features a Cabot Creamery shop, an enormous antiques shop, Vermont Spirits Distilling Co., and many other interesting businesses.

West-Central Mountains & Appalachian Gap Loop (100 mi.)

• Sheldon Museum in Middlebury : This museum serves up the memory of Addison County history through tours, exhibits, & programs that enrich the understanding of Vermont’s past.
• Danforth Pewter’s Workshop and Store in Middlebury : This pewter maker has a gallery of one-of-a-kind pieces and viewing windows into the workshop.
• Robert Frost Interpretive Trail in Ripton, VT : This easy, one-mile trail commemorates Frost’s work; several of his poems are mounted along the trail in the woods and fields.
• Texas Falls in Hancock : East one-mile trail meanders through the forest along Texas Brook towards picnic grounds.

Northern Mountains and Lake Champlain Islands Loop (165mi.)

• St. Anne's Shrine in Isle La Motte, VT : This spiritual & historical attraction on the shore of Lake Champlain welcomes vacationer, tourists, and religious pilgrims.
• Sand Bar Wildlife Refuge in Milton, VT
• Missisquoi Wildlife Refuge in Swanton
• Carman Brook Farm Maple and Dairy in Swanton : Five generations of one farming family have operated this farm for about 100 years. Stop in for a jug of syrup!
• Moog's Joint in Johnson, VT : The second restaurant opened by Tom Moog, the place opened in August 2019 to bring elevated pub food, microbrews, creative cocktails, and live music.
• Blue Paddle Bistro in South Hero : Located on the Lake Champlain Islands in an older clapboard house, where each dining room is small, quiet, and drenched with light. Décor is lakefront-style nautical and the food is fresh and delicious.

Northeast Kingdom Loop (150mi.)

• Dog Mountain in St. Johnsbury : 150 acres on a private mountaintop where people and dogs are welcome to come and place at all times of the year, especially and many seasonal celebrations there.
• Museums in St. Johnsbury include the St. Johnsbury Athenaeum , Fairbanks Museum , and Maple Grove Maple Museum .
• The southernmost point of the loop drive is Danville, VT , but if you divert a little farther south you will be rewarded with a drive on beautiful Mack Mountain Road, between Peacham and East Cabot, VT . Stop for lunch or coffee at the wonderful Peacham Cafe
• Rabbit Hill Inn in Lower Waterford, VT : Just a bit south of St. Johnsbury , is a romantic country inn, perfect for a couple to stop on a foliage drive to enjoy a quiet dinner with a special cocktail. The warm dining room of chocolate and copper hues has a fireplace. Food is fresh and delicious.
• Riley's Fish Shack in St. Johnsbury : A casual fish shack with indoor and outdoor seating. Open for lunch and dinner, Riley’s serves fried and broiled seafood, lobsters and lobster rolls, chicken, Angus beef burgers, beer and wine, and ice cream. Kids meals, vegetarian and gluten-free options are available.
• Essex House & Tavern in Island Pond, VT : A little outside the northeastern curve of this drive route, this is high-caliber, meaty tavern food that covers all the bases, including the influence of nearby French Canada, represented by the classic dish poutine. Beef steaks, salmon, chicken – you won’t drive away hungry.
• Saint J Brewery in St. Johnsbury is a brewery and brew pub with a small range of hearty food: hoagies (submarine sandwiches), soft pretzels, vegetarian or hot chicken chili. Beverages include three house brews, other Vermont-made beers, ciders, sodas, kombucha and coffees.

Stowe and Northern Mountains Loop (60mi.)

• Be sure to stop at Lake Elmore State Park in Elmore and Moss Glen Falls at Stowe.
• Gondola Skyride, Stowe Ski Resort in Stowe: The Gondola Skyride flies you in an enclosed box up the mountainside to the top of Mount Mansfield , where you can walk the hiking trails, tale photos, browse and buy at the Summit gift shop, and enjoy lunch at the Cliff House Restaurant . SkyRides operate through late October.

* Our thanks to the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing .

Ultimate Fall Foliage Road Trip in Vermont: A Complete Itinerary

Autumn is a second spring that turns all leaves into flowers”- Fall is definitely the time of the year when leaves speak to us, the story of existence as well as the beauty of letting things pass by. Fall leaves throw such a fantastic show before their demise. In this blog, we will cover awesome fall foliage road trip ideas in Vermont that may inspire your next adventure. Enjoy some stunning visuals of a Fall Foliage Road Trip in Vermont and get some help from our detailed itinerary to plan your Vermont road trip.

Vermont Road Trip Planner

Why fall is the best time to visit vermont, where to to stay in vermont, need a rental car in vermont, 3 day itinerary for a fall foliage road trip in vermont, stop 1: jamaica state park, stop 2: weston village, stop 3: plymouth, stop 4: woodstock village, stop 5: plainfield, stop 6: montpelier, stop 7: vermont state house.

• Stop 8: Ben & Jerry's Factory, Waterbury, Stowe

Tips to remember while traveling to Mount Mansfield

Stop 10: killington, pin this fall road trip in vermont for planning your trip.

New England on the east coast of the USA is one of the most gorgeous places to experience the ultimate beauty of Fall and the state of Vermont takes the crown . During the Autumn season here, you will have one of the best leaf-peeping experiences – whilst enjoying the natural Fall exhibition just during your drive, strolling in scenic state parks, hiking mountain ranges, or even exploring stunning waterfalls in this area. I came back with strong feelings for the state of Vermont and its people- it is by far my most favorite state in America. I will also go again, so let us say this was a beginning for me too.

Some of the top places to visit in Vermont in Fall include:

• Green Mountain National Forest
• White Mountain National Forest
• Scenic Route 100

The Fall foliage starts in mid-September and lasts until mid-October. I visited at the beginning of October when the leaves are more reddish however if you’re looking for yellow colors, visiting earlier is advised. Personally, I would recommend aiming for “Peak Foliage” in mid-October and the USA long weekend of October 12th for Columbus day is perfect for this Fall Road Trip.

Vermont is more like a European Travel experience when it comes to the stay. There are many inns and B&Bs run by locals which I would recommend as your first choice to experience the local life. I stayed in a lovely Airbnb which was very similar to a Scottish B&B and I would rate my stay here as one of the best Airbnb stays ever.

If you are visiting internationally flying into New York or Vermont, you could go for a rental car option. Remember that you drive on the right side of the road in the USA. Your international driving license is valid if you feel comfortable driving. The rules are pretty easy with wide roads and clear junctions combined with the fact that most of the cars in the USA are automatic.

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We embarked on a Vermont Fall road trip as part of a Week East Coast Road trip traveling from Florida to Boston. This Vermont road trip itinerary starts from Albany and made our up North with stops at villages and parks in the Green Mountain National Forest until arriving at Montpelier , the capital city of Vermont. In the following days, we also covered the Vermont scenic 100 route and two mountain ranges, Mount Mansfield and Killington. Below is the route we followed color-coded per day for this amazing fall foliage road trip in Vermont. Let us enjoy the fall visual show of Vermont together.

READ: Best Road Trips in USA for your American Road Trip Bucket List

Day 1: Green Mountain National Forest

Our first stop in Vermont was the Jamaica State Park which is located in a small picturesque village Jamaica in the south of Vermont. The state park needs a pass to enter and it is best to check the activities before you go. We only strolled around the village. 

The short walk from the village to the park is stunning with amazing views of colorful houses embedded into nature along the West River and an amazing bridge called the Wardsboro bridge forming a great frame.

There is a hike from here to the Ball Mountain Dam via Hamilton Falls which we missed as our itinerary was tight, I would advise planning to spend a long time here. From here we headed upwards to the village of Weston. On the way, you will get this stunning view which is the same as my feature image. Here is the exact stop: 60-52 River Road, Jamaica, VT 05343.

Weston felt was like walking through a European town with the houses, roads, and shops here reminding me of Austria/Switzerland. Adding to the Autumn charm, the village houses were fully decorated with pumpkins all ready for Halloween. I really loved the orange theme in this postcard-perfect Green Mountain Town village in autumn.

There are some really cute little shops here selling local crafts and produces. I had heard that this town is perfect to celebrate Christmas in, and the Christmas shop here really had strong European vibes so you can note this village if you’re planning a European-style getaway in the USA.

Another attraction is here the Old Mill Museum , which has a mountainous backdrop and a stunning waterfall. We did not go inside the museum as it was closed the day we visited however the view from the outside museum was breathtaking enough for us. Someone from the village had even left a pumpkin beneath the trees, how cute!

The route to Woodstock via Plymouth was one of the best scenic routes during the trip. We didn’t stop in the town itself but we just stopped along the way to admire the views.

The view of mountains and reflections in the lake is simply splendid. This route is just stunning throughout so much so it was confusing which pictures to take and which pose would be best. In the end, I can see we ended up taking fewer pictures and spent more time just enjoying the view. 

We arrived in Woodstock village around sunset, of course, this is what happens if you take a scenic route and keep stopping. Woodstock village is very famous in New England and is on the top list of scenic towns with amazing houses and post-card views around. Though we missed exploring the village properly, we could experience the local shop here which was so thrilling with lots of diverse farm productions. I almost wanted to buy everything and the bakery here was calling to us loudly.

These pumpkins and Squashes are just a small part of what they produce. Aren’t they so diverse? I have never seen these shapes and colors before, I spent a lot of my time just staring at pumpkins and I wished I could have brought them home with me. 

After strolling here, we headed towards Montpellier where our Airbnb was booked for the night.  I definitely need to go back to Woodstock as I could not explore it properly. We arrived late in Montpellier, found a local Thai restaurant to eat at, and headed to the Airbnb to crash.

Day 2: Scenic Route 100

Waking up in Plainfield, Montpellier in our Farm Stay Airbnb is still one of my most favorite stay experiences. This house is located in a private estate with a lake and the morning view was breathtaking. Our host was such a lovely lady who had everything sorted for us like a typical B&B in Europe. They also had an Apple tree with such low-hanging apples that I tried to act eating one while standing on the ground.

The Airbnb farm house has a vintage style and is decorated very well. The prayer flags caught my attention and I added them to my list of home decorations straight away. I wish we had more time here, I will definitely go back and stay exactly here again if it is still available.

The Airbnb was in a hilly area far away from the city. We headed towards Montpellier city first.

We stopped at Montepellier and went via Cliff Street towards Hubbard Tower to get a top view of the city. There were a lot of hikers around here and would recommend not missing this view if you visit. This town qualifies to be the most scenic Fall Town view in my mind, just like I have Tromso for the best winter view. The capital city of Vermont and the vibes here caught my attention, there is something so positive about the people and region here.

The State House of Vermont is located in its capital town, Montpelier. Stopping by this cute statehouse was a heartwarming experience as it stood gorgeous and constantly reminded me of the Glory of this State and its People. It was just stunning with its golden dome and fall backdrop. 

We drove towards Stowe taking the scenic route 100 . This drive was just epic and was sad I could only do a part of it and hope to revisit and finish the full route.

Stop 8: Ben & Jerry’s Factory, Waterbury, Stowe

We arrived at the original Ben and Jerry’s factory which is the Mekkah for Ice-cream lovers. The vibe here is too cheerful, both adults and kids queued up to get their hands on their favorite flavor. 

Here you can taste all their new flavors and pay a visit to the ice-cream graveyard where there is a gravestone for every flavor that didn’t succeed in the market.

Stop 9: Mount Mansfield

One of the highlights of my trip was the drive and hike up to Mount Mansfield, the highest mountain point in Vermont. This literally felt like being in a Hollywood movie even looking at cars coming down from that steep hill while we queued to drive up. 

Climb up and you are in the middle of a FALL HEAVEN literally. It is all Yellow, the Coldplay song was singing in my head throughout the drive here. This mountain is a not-to-miss and the best for leaf-peeping and complete with a cute little chapel.

The drive can be tricky here and we saw a couple who had got stuck with their car tire wedged in a ditch. There are multiple trails you can do here and it is best to plan time if you wish to hike.

We just did a short section of the Sunset Ridge Trail as we did not have much time left of the day. The view from here is amazing.

A list and map of trails can be found here.

Day 3: Killington

At this point, one of our friends had to leave so we had a short break in the trip before the rest of us continued to visit Killington the next day which is another mountain range famous for skiing. Look at the view- amazing isn’t it?

The Killington Mountain Lodge is very popular among families and was packed during our long weekend visit. It is perfect for a Fall Foliage road trip in Vermont, particularly for a weekend getaway and they have amazing rooms to stay in here. 

Click here to find some amazing accommodation options in Killington

Final thoughts on the Fall Road Trip in Vermont

Fall Road trips in Vermont are the best for leaf peepers, nature lovers and foodies. What attracted me the most during my Vermont visit, apart from the leaf-peeping experience, and picturesque villages are the really nice people and their commitment to using local products that even McDonald’s does not exist there. Vermont is known for its natural landscape, and its capital town Montpelier is amongst the least populated cities of the USA. It definitely is an Autumn Wonderland!

Jumana is a travel writer and technologist living in the United Kingdom, born and brought up in India. While she is busy with her full time job as a computer technologist, she is an active explorer during her spare time. She has been exploring states of India since she was 15 and then around the world since she moved to the west in her 20s. Her favourite travel style is “On the Road” and she has perfected the art of road trip planning, covering multiple famous and undiscovered routes around Europe, UK and USA. She is on a mission to road trip the planet and learn more about the cultures around the world.

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73 comments

Vermont is beautiful all around the year and Fall is the best!

Thanks Deep. No doubt Vermont rules for Fall

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10 Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Vermont

Experience Vermont’s vibrant fall foliage at these 10 best places to view fall colors!

It’s no secret that Vermont is one of the best places in the United States to view spectacular fall foliage. Every season around September and October, Vermont’s iconic maple leaves turn from their lush summer green to vibrant shades of orange, red, and yellow. Within the span of a few weeks – for only a few weeks – every hillside and mountaintop across the state exhibits a stunning firey display.

As someone who grew up in Vermont, I admit that I took the beauty of fall for granted. But now when I return home during the fall foliage season, I am always amazed at the incredible hues that spread throughout the state as summer winds down and temperatures begin to drop. I may be biased, but I think a road trip through Vermont during peak foliage season to see the fall colors should be on everyone’s bucket list, and if you go, here are a few places not to miss.

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Plan your Vermont Fall Foliage Road Trip with these not-to-miss leaf-peeping stops for the best fall colors.

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The Best Time to View Vermont’s Fall Foliage

While it’s impossible to predict the exact dates that fall colors will ‘peak’ in Vermont, it usually happens around mid-September to mid-October . The leaves will start to change as summer rolls into fall and there’s about a two-week period where every hillside is ablaze in fall splendor.

Northern Vermont tends to see an earlier fall foliage season than southern Vermont, so there’s a two-three week window for optimal leaf-peeping around the state. Visit the Vermont Fall Foliage Report to check weekly updates.

Be sure to pack your fall hiking layers , and if you’re planning on camping, be sure to read our best fall camping tips on how to prepare and stay warm .

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The Best Places to View Vermont’s Fall Foliage

1. smuggler’s notch pass.

Smuggler’s Notch Pass in the fall is absolutely stunning and it should be on every leaf-peepers list. Locally known as ‘the Notch’, the Smuggler’s Notch Pass Road connects the town of Jeffersonville on the western slope of Mount Mansfield to the village of Stowe on the eastern side of the mountain. The Notch Road is very narrow and windy and is lined with maple trees that turn vibrant shades of red and gold in the fall.

If you want to stretch your legs, hike up the Sterling Pond Trail at the top of the Notch. It’s a 2.3-mile out-and-back hike with pretty views of Sterling Pond at the top and a great place to take in Vermont’s fall foliage.

(Note: Smuggler’s Notch is a very popular scenic drive during peak fall foliage season. Try to visit on a weekday or get an early start).

2. The Kingdom Trails

The Kingdom Trails is a popular mountain bike destination in East Burke, Vermont and it also happens to be a spectacular place to see fall colors. Even if you’re not a mountain biker, the walking and hiking trails along Darling Hill offer incredible views out over the ridges and valleys.

Spend your day hiking or mountain biking the trails and then enjoy a drink and dinner on the patio at Juniper’s Restaurant in the Wildflower Inn. You may just catch one of the best sunsets you’ve ever seen.

3. Shelburne Farms & Shelburne Orchards

Tucked away in the rolling hills near the shores of Lake Champlain , Shelburne Farms is a fun way to spend an afternoon, especially when fall is in the air. Walk along Shelburne Farm’s extensive walking paths for stunning views of the lake, order a picnic lunch from their farm store and laze about on the lawns, or visit the goats, sheep, and cows in their farmyard.

The huge brick mansion at Shelburne Farms, which houses their beautiful inn and restaurant is also an impressive sight amid Vermont’s peak fall foliage.

For a unique Vermont fall experience, head to the nearby Shelburne Orchards where you can pick your own apples and snack on apple cider donuts.

4. Mount Mansfield

A tour of Vermont’s fall colors wouldn’t be complete without a hike up Mount Mansfield. Standing tall at 4,395 feet, it’s Vermont’s highest peak and there are a handful of trails that lead up to the summit.

One of my favorite hikes is the 7.3-mile Mount Mansfield Loop Trail that starts at Underhill State Park. It traverses the ridge and ‘chin’ along the top of Mount Mansfield for uninterrupted views of the Green Mountain State in all its fall glory.

Read Next: What to Wear Hiking in Fall

5. vergennes.

The town of Vergennes is a charming New England village with a picturesque downtown filled with quaint shops and farm-to-table restaurants .

The town sits on the banks of Otter Creek, which is absolutely beautiful during fall. Visitors can view the Otter Creek Falls and historic buildings from the Vergennes Falls Park .

6. Quechee State Park

Quechee State Park is home to the breathtaking 165ft-deep Quechee Gorge, Vermont’s deepest ravine that was carved over 13,000 years ago by glacial activity. Flanked on both sides with maple trees, the gorge offers incredible fall foliage views above the Ottauquechee River. Visitors can access the Gorge via the 2.7-mile Quechee Gorge Trail and there is a campground within the state park for overnight stays.

7. Somerset Reservoir

The Somerset Reservoir is a large lake nestled within the Green Mountain National Forest of southern Vermont. It is a quiet and undeveloped place to explore and experience Vermont’s fall colors. Take your kayak or paddleboard out onto the water and watch for loons, ducks, moose, deer or black bears or head out for a hike on one of the many nearby hiking trails.

8. Burlington & The Burlington Bike Path

If you plan to visit Vermont, a stop in the city of Burlington on the shores of Lake Champlain is a must, even if it’s just for an afternoon. This vibrant town is home to the University of Vermont and the bustling pedestrian-only Church Street lined with shops and street vendors. Spend a few hours wandering around the cobblestone streets and treat yourself to a Ben & Jerry’s ice cream.

If you have a little longer to explore, the Burlington Bike Path meanders along Burlington’s waterfront and is an incredible way to see the fall colors along the lake as well as the changing foliage across the lake in New York. The Burlington Bike Path extends 14 miles (one-way) north to the Colchester Causeway , which is a thin strip of land that is flanked on both sides by Lake Champlain.

9. Missisquoi Wildlife Refuge

Located on the eastern shores of Lake Champlain in northern Vermont, the Missisquoi Wildlife Refuge is a large swath of protected floodplain forest, wetlands, shrub, bog, and grasslands. In addition to being an incredible place to spot wildlife – especially migrating birds – the Missisquoi Wildlife Refuge is also an excellent natural area to view Vermont’s fall foliage.

Take a kayak or paddleboard out onto the Delta or grab your camera and look for wildlife along the Jeep Trail that parallels the Missisquoi River.

10. Green River Reservoir State Park

Immerse yourself in some of Vermont’s best fall foliage at Green River Reservoir State Park in Northern, Vermont. There are a handful of remote tent campsites that are accessed by boat only , so if you’re looking for some quiet and solitude, this is your place. Camping reservations are required. You can read more about camping on the Green River Reservoir in this blog post .

If you’re only visiting for the day, the reservoir is perfect for kayaking, SUPing, swimming, or relaxing at one of the day-use picnic areas as you enjoy the fall colors surrounding you.

Wherever you go in Vermont, the fall foliage is sure to be spectacular. It is every year!

Have you experienced Vermont’s fall colors? What was your favorite destination? Share your experience in the comments below!

After college and a few stints abroad, Becky landed a job with a fleet of National Geographic cruise ships, spending the next 10 years sailing the world. She now adventures from the seat of her bike (and a RAM ProMaster), helping us keep all of our content up to date and relevant here at Bearfoot Theory. Her blog — Two Wheeled Wanderer, — inspires more people to explore the world on two wheels.

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14 Comments

We have a small group of 6 planning to come to Vermont mid October and are interested in what to do and see foliage. We are driving from South Carolina. We also want to see as much as we can. Maybe go over to Hamptons and through Amish country. I know that is a lot so we have to plan accordingly. Any information would be helpful. Thanks, Louise. Ps may look at Airbnb for accommodations.

The stops on this list are a great place to start!

i want to do a road trip in vermont and i want to do it in the heart of the leaves turning colors. Tell me the best routes you think and i would love to see cheese farms, maple sugar makers. and chocolatiers. If you can recommend the best inns to stay at. thanks

Hi Wendy, this blog post is a great place to start for our recommendations and route, but we haven’t personally visited the other places you’re looking for in Vermont. Enjoy your trip!

Check out Adventurebrook on Air B&B. It is in East Burke at the foot of Burke Mt. Very comfortable and short distance to Darling Hill.

Awesome, thanks for the tip!

Hogback mt Marlboro Vt over a 100 mile view use to work there got to see it morning are the best.

Trapp Family Lodge is a must see. Owned by the famed Sound of Music Family. They don’t hide. You just might see a von trapp on the grounds. I recommend the Bier Hall to eat. Great views, great food!

Hi, we are 2 people planning to come to Vermont for a day sometime in October. We will come by bus and won’t have a car with us. Please suggest the best way to spend the day in Vermont and see fall foliage. Thank you.

Walking along the Burlington Bike Path (or renting bikes) is a great way to enjoy the fall foliage and get great views of Lake Champlain. Vermont doesn’t have great public transportation, so it would be difficult to get to the more remote areas on this list without a car. Enjoy!

We are planning to Visist Vermont in Early October and would love to visit some Amish Country. Where can we find them?

Hi Michelle, unfortunately we didn’t visit any during our trip so we’re unable to recommend. Maybe someone else will be able to chime in with recommendations. Enjoy your trip!

Thank you. its very helpful.

We are visiting vermont to see fall colors in 8th oct weekend. We have small kids also. Which are the best place to see the fall colors without hiking much.

And also can you suggest beautiful lake to see fall colors ?

Hi Vibhuti, Lake Willoughby is a great spot to see the fall colors. There are several pull-offs around the lake, or you can hike the Mt. Pisgah Trail for a bird’s eye view. Note the trail is 4.1 miles roundtrip with 1600′ elevation gain, so it’s not an easy hike. Enjoy your trip!

New England Wanderlust

Fall , Vermont  ·  July 9, 2023

Vermont In The Fall: 31 Awesome Things To Do In 2024!

There is no better destination in the U.S. than Vermont in the fall season. There, I said it! It might be a bold claim, but I’m stickin’ to it 😂

Vermont has a special place in my heart because it’s where my husband and I honeymooned, and I’ve been going back to explore every inch of it ever since – that’s over 10 years of visiting the Green Mountain State!

Between postcard-worthy foliage landscapes, quaint villages, the flavors of fall like apples, cider and maple syrup, adorable covered bridges, and insanely gorgeous mountains ablaze in reds and oranges, Vermont in the fall is sure to catch your heart, too.

This post is all about the most amazing things to do in the Green Mountain State in this spectacular season, which I think is the best time to visit Vermont . Are you ready to plan your most fun and cozy fall trip yet? Let’s get started!

New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, please refer to our  Privacy Policy .

When To Visit Vermont For Fall Foliage

While Vermont is a small state, foliage will still peak at different times throughout each region. Here’s a quick guide to give you an idea of what areas peak when:

Northern Vermont : End of September

Mid-Vermont : Early October (usually around Indigenous People’s weekend). This region includes popular places like Stowe and Woodstock.

Southern Vermont : Mid-October, usually just about a week or so after mid-Vermont peaks.

It’s best to keep in mind that fall foliage in Vermont, and all of New England, is not an exact science. The timing can fluctuate from year to year, and sometimes it can peak sooner, and it can run behind schedule, too. It all depends on weather patterns, rainfall, and temperature fluctuations throughout the earlier part of the year.

That said, the above guides are usually pretty accurate. But, I always like to remind people there’s always a chance it could fall outside of these timelines.

If you need to plan your trip in advance (and in Vermont, you definitely need to as this is a high season for tourists!), I always say err on the side of a bit early if you’re unsure. It’s better to see the fall foliage just before peak than after when all the trees are bare.

That said, foliage should last on the trees for about two weeks. This is, again, a guess, and there have been years where leaves fell pretty quickly, and only stayed on for about a week or so. There have also been years where it last for closer to 3-4 weeks.

If you happen to visit on a year that foliage peaks a bit early and you miss it, fear not! I still think foliage season just after peak time is still gorgeous. You’ll see a lot more leaves on the ground as opposed to the trees, so mountains may not be aglow with that impressive fall color. But there’s still something special about this time of the year before the first snowfall.

And, of course, communities around Vermont will be gearing up with fall and Halloween festivals throughout all of October! Fall will definitely still be in the air after peak foliage season.

Where To Go In Vermont In September

If you’re hoping to visit Vermont in September, and also catch a glimpse of fall color, I would target the Northern Kingdom in the last two weeks of September. Sometimes fall color will last in this area through early October, but generally, experts predict last-September for this area. Some great areas and towns to visit here are:

• Lake Willoughby
• Montgomery (great town for covered bridges!)

Jay, in particular, is wonderful for fall foliage, and has some great mountain areas for hikes, as well as a tram ride to the summit of Jay Peak. This runs through the beginning of October, and it’s a unique experience because it’s the only mountain tram in Vermont.

At the end of September, you can also enjoy the Burke Fall Festival in Burke, VT!

Where To Go In Vermont In October

October is when foliage around the rest of the state really begins to take off, and by Indigenous People’s weekend, most of Vermont is alive with fall color. If you’re planning to visit Vermont for a week or more during foliage season, I suggest you start your trip right at the beginning of October, and then chase the foliage heading from north to south, starting in Stowe, and ending near the Manchester/Bennington areas.

The best places for fall foliage around Indigenous People’s weekend are:

• Burlington/Lake Champlain/Shelburne

The best places for fall foliage right after Indigenous People’s weekend are:

• Brattleboro
• Shaftsbury/Arlington

Psst! I have an entire guide on the best times and places to see fall foliage in Vermont , if you need more info 😉

Best Things To Do In Vermont In The Fall

Okay, so now you know when to go to Vermont in the fall, let’s talk about all the amazing towns, places to see, and things to do this time of the year! Below are all my recommendations on the things that are most worth your time on a fall trip.

1. Explore Stowe

If there’s one place that pretty much has it all in Vermont, it’s Stowe. While it’s one of the most popular towns to visit in the state, especially in the fall season, it’s one that’s 100% worth the effort!, and even makes my list of best places to visit in New England . Not only does it offer tons to do for such a small little town, it’s got some of the best fall foliage in the northeast .

Stowe’s village is so cute and charming, and is home to a wonderful general store, mercantile, café, and lovely boutiques. Main Street is also home to the iconic white steepled church that’s used in a lot of stock imagery for fall in New England, which makes for great photos.

From Main Street, you can also pick up the wonderful Recreation Path , which has lots of fall color this time of the year. Just walk behind the church to find it! But you can also pick it up throughout town.

In the village, you can also pop into Stowe Cidery, which is especially great in the fall season, and drive a bit to The Alchemist Brewery, which is one of my all-time favorites.

If you drive a few minutes outside of the village, you’ll also be able to visit Emily’s Covered Bridge, drive Smugglers Notch, and take a gondola to Vermont’s highest peak (but more on all three of these things later because they deserve their own mention).

Also, to get to Stowe, you need to drive through Waterbury Center, which is home to the Ben & Jerry’s Factory, and a great little shopping area with Cold Hollow Cider Mill, an excellent coffee shop, a distillery, and the Cabot Cheese Farmer’s Store.

See what I mean when I say Stowe has it all?

2. Drive Through Smugglers Notch

Just a few minutes outside of the village of Stowe, you’ll find the very scenic Smugglers Notch park. But really, the best part is simply the drive through it. The road that runs through the park is completely free for all, and it’s entirely ablaze with fall color, making it simply magical during foliage season.

The drive is only about 3.5 miles long one-way, and runs along Route 108, which connects Stowe to Cambridge, VT. So while it doesn’t take long, it’s definitely worth doing.

During the drive, please exercise caution, as there are some hairpin turns that could be dangerous if you’re not careful. Otherwise, relax and enjoy the ride!

Pro Tip : Once you reach the end of the drive, you can spend some time in Cambridge. While not as picturesque as Stowe, you can swing into the Vermont Maple Outlet and Boyden Valley Winery & Spirits , and also pop on over to the Cambridge Junction Covered Bridge .

3. Ride The Stowe Gondola To The Top Of Mount Mansfield

Also in Stowe, you have easy access to the amazing Stowe Gondola, which takes you to the top of Vermont’s highest peak – Mount Mansfield.

The gondola is along the Smugglers Notch drive, so if you want to do both, it’s best to do them together. The gondola ride takes about 15 minutes each way, and once you’re at the top, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of the mountain vistas, as well as the resort below. It’s really such a cool thing to see in person! In the fall, the mountains just look orange, as you can see in the photo above.

At the top, you’ll also have access to some eateries, one of which is a fun little waffle place.

If you’re feeling ambitious, you can also hike up to the top!

Pro Tip : This is a popular attraction in the fall season, and only runs through mid-October. It’s best to purchase your ticket online in advance to save time when you arrive. I also suggest going on your ride in the morning to avoid the longest lines at the gondola.

4. Visit The Haunted Emily’s Bridge

Lastly in Stowe, you have to see Emily’s Covered Bridge! Rumor has it, it’s haunted , so this is especially exciting to do just after sunset, or on a cloudy, overcast afternoon.

Legend has it that a young woman named Emily hung herself from the bridge when her lover didn’t meet her there to elope, and has haunted the bridge ever since. Since the 1960s, there have been reports of unusual activity at the bridge, including people claiming strange scratches found on their car after driving over it, a woman’s voice screaming, and other unexplained noises.

While there’s no documentation or confirmed history that a woman died at the bridge, so many people have had strange experiences here that it’s most definitely eerie to visit whether you believe in ghosts or not.

When you visit the bridge, there are a few parking spaces on the Covered Bridge Road side if you’d like to get out and explore. However, just be aware that this is a working bridge, and there will be cars driving across, so please be careful while you enjoy the scenery .

5. Visit One Of The Cute Pumpkin Patches & Farm Stands

Vermont is packed to the brim with wonderful pumpkin patches and farm stands! If you happen to be near one, or live in the New England area and want to bring home some pumpkins, you’ll want to have these on your radar as you drive around.

One of my personal favorite pumpkin patches in Vermont is at Armstrong Farm just outside of Bennington , which is in the southern region of the state. They spell out Vermont with pumpkins on their lawn, and it makes for such a great photo spot on your visit! They have awesome pumpkins to choose from, including some heirloom varieties, and a cute little farm stand with maple syrup and more goodies.

Just down the road from Armstrong Farm is the Apple Barn Bakery & Café , which has awesome cider donuts, cookies, apple pastries and tons more. They also have a great farm store with local cheeses, beer, gifts, apples, etc.

Here are some more great Vermont pumpkin patches and farm stands to check out:

• Whitcomb’s Land of Pumpkins and Corn Maze
• Kingdom Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch at Simpson Farm
• Dutton Farm Store
• Equinox Valley Nursery (great cider donuts here, too!)

6. Visit Cold Hollow Cider Mill

One of the most festive places to visit in the fall in the Green Mountain State is Cold Hollow Cider Mill. I first visited here on a trip my husband and I took before our honeymoon 2009, so it’s been a staple for me for years!

While it’s another place that’s super popular, it’s also worth it. They make their own cider donuts here, and you can also get some warm or cold cider to drink, or order an apple cider slushy if the weather is warm. The store itself is also huge, with all kinds of local goods, apparel, and gifts to shop from.

7. Taste The Cold Hollow Hard Cider, Too!

Right in the same area, you can also visit the Cold Hollow Cidery, which is a hard cider tasting room. In the same building as the tasting room, you can also visit their café, which has a great lunch menu, and offers their ciders on tap to enjoy with your meal.

The inside of the cider tasting room is so cozy and beautiful, and you can order flights to sample a few varieties. Next door is a shop with cans to-go if you want to take some home with you.

The café is a great spot for lunch, as mentioned, and you can even get their ciders here, too (including flights!). At the café, you’ll order at the register, and then find your own seating, which is both indoors and outdoors.

8. Eat ALL The Cider Donuts While You’re At It 😉

While Cold Hollow is a great spot for cider donuts, you’re going to want to try them all while you drive around Vermont, right? I mean, this is the best time of the year for these awesome little treats, so when in Rome … 🙂

Here are some great places to check out to get some of the best cider donuts in the state:

• Shelburne Orchards
• Paradise Farm Sugarhouse
• Happy Valley Orchard
• The Mill Market & Deli
• Adams Apple Orchard & Farm Market

9. Drive The Back Roads

One of the things I always encourage folks to do on their Vermont visits is to hit the back roads. Now, chances are if you’re planning to visit a few places in Vermont, you’ll be navigated through the backroads anyway. BUT, there are some really beautiful landscapes and lots of fall foliage scenery to be had off the main highways (that said, the drive along I-89 between Waterbury and Burlington is awfully gorgeous in the fall!).

I feel like whenever I’m lost in Vermont, it’s always okay because I stumble upon a beautiful farm backdropped by mountains. So, plan some time to get lost, go down a street GPS isn’t telling you to go down, and see where the day takes you. It’s not guaranteed to be spectacular, but I’m fairly confident it will be worth it ☺️

10. Explore Charming Woodstock

Another wonderful town that feels right out of a Hallmark movie set is Woodstock, and this is one destination everyone should have on their radar. Between the adorable village with shops and restaurants, nearby farms, and covered bridges, it’s such a magical place to explore – especially in the fall!

As mentioned, you’ll want to budget some time to explore the lovely village. Woodstock has some great shops, including a cute little bookstore, a great café called Mon Vert, a Vermont Flannel Company store, and a wonderful general store. I also really love Woody’s Mercantile, so be sure to pop in there, too.

A short walk from the shops in the village, and you’ll run into Middle Covered Bridge, which is just begging for you to take its picture 😉 Outside of the village, you can drive to Lincoln Covered Bridge and Taftsbury Covered Bridge.

In fact, you’ll have to cross Taftsbury Covered Bridge to get to Sugarbush Farms, which is a must during your visit to Woodstock. Sugarbush makes its own cheese and maple syrups, and has a great little tasting area for both. On-site, you’ll also find some nice walking trails, and incredible mountain views. In fact, they encourage you to bring a picnic to enjoy while you admire the gorgeous mountains!

Pro Tip For Sugarbush Farms : The dirt road to the farm is pretty bumpy, so drive slow!

11. Attend The Harvest Celebrations At Billings Farm

Also in Woodstock is the amazing Billings Farm, which is an incredible working dairy farm that’s also a museum. And what I love most about this farm is what a great job they do with community events that celebrate each season, and of course, fall is no exception.

Typically held the second weekend in October, Harvest Celebrations is the perfect time to visit the farm because in addition to the usual museum exhibits and farm demonstrations, you’ll be able to enjoy some fun fall-themed activities like pumpkin bowling, cider pressing, crafts, and live music.

12. Find Your Way Through The Great Vermont Corn Maze

Did you know that the largest corn maze in New England is in Vermont? Well, now you do! The Great Vermont Corn Maze is an awesome fall tradition that’s so fun to take part in during your visit.

Located in Danville, the maze spans over 24 acres, and is actually considered a hike through their farm because of how large it is. If you’re not up for the challenge, don’t worry – they have you covered. Visitors can choose the Scenic Maze option instead, which is a designated section within the big maze that doesn’t take quite as long to walk through.

The maze is only open through mid-October, so be sure to plan your visit before then. They also do a great job updating any weather closures on their Facebook page .

Psst! There are actually some really great corn mazes in Vermont , so be sure to check out a few during your visit!

13. Get A Maple Creemee

One of the best treats you can get in Vermont (in addition to cider donuts, of course!), is the famous maple creemee. This is basically a maple-infused soft serve ice cream, and it’s especially amazing in the fall when it coincides with all the other warm and spiced flavors of the season.

Vermont has really perfected the art of the maple creemee, especially since it’s home to the best maple syrup in the country. Here are a few places that whip up amazing maple creemees :

• Canteen Creemee Company in Waitsfield (my personal favorite!)
• Creemee Stand in Wilmington
• Woodstock Scoops in Woodstock
• Creemees Ice Cream in Burlington
• Village Creeme Stand in Bristol

14. Drive Route 100

One of the most famous fall foliage drives in all of New England is the iconic Route 100 in Vermont, which spans over 200 miles, and runs right through the middle of the state. During this drive, you’ll enjoy foliage scenery all over the place, and pass through some cute towns.

The best place to start this drive is in Wilmington, VT, and some notable places it passes through are:

• Londonderry
• Weston (where there’s a Vermont Country Store!)
• Moss Glen Falls
• Waitsfield (comes close by, but not directly through)
• Waterbury Historic Village

Driving the entire route from Wilmington to Newport would only take just under 3 hours without stops, so you can easily make this a day trip if you’re ambitious, or turn it into a 1-2 night adventure!

15. Tour The Covered Bridges

One of my personal favorite things to do in Vermont is drive around to find all the covered bridges. In fact, Vermont has the most covered bridges per square mile than any other state in the U.S., so this is the best place to see them. And while I love the covered bridges in every season, there’s definitely something extra special about seeing them in the fall, backdropped by the foliage.

Tip : I created an entire post with a detailed Vermont covered bridges road trip itinerary, so be sure to find that link at the end of this section under “helpful links.”

16. Experience Enchanted Forest In Montpelier

For an extra magical experience in Vermont in the fall, you’ll want to check out the Enchanted Forest exhibit in Montpelier. This event typically takes place in mid-October, and is a guided tour through Hubbard Park with paths aglow with jack-o-lanterns, and forests filled with art exhibits in different mediums. Once you reach the tower, you’re rewarded with a special performance before making your way back to the start.

Pro Tip : This event tends to sell out pretty quickly each year, so if you have your heart set on it, you’ll want to book your tickets in advance. Click here for more info .

17. Try All The Seasonal Brews

One thing I love about fall is savoring the flavors of the season, and I love to do that with pumpkin and fall brews! Vermont is home to some absolutely amazing breweries, and many whip up special seasonal concoctions that highlight these flavors.

Some great Vermont breweries to check out are:

• Foam Brewers in Burlington
• Alchemist Beer in Stowe
• Fiddlehead Brewing in Shelburne
• Hill Farmstead Brewery in Greensboro Bend
• Zero Gravity Brewery in Burlington

18. Attend Oktoberfest On Mount Snow

Speaking of beer, a wonderful event that celebrates both brews and the fall season is the very cool Oktoberfest on Mount Snow. Typically held on the second weekend in October, this festival features a lot of really great brewers around New England, including von Trapp Brewing in Stowe, Zero Gravity in Burlington, and even Main Beer Company, which is one of my favorites from the Pine Tree State!*

During the event, you’ll also find yodeling contests, a keg toss, and a special area for the kiddos.

*Beers mentioned are examples of what’s been on draft in past years, and brews featured can vary each year. It’s best to check the event’s website before buying your ticket to ensure you’re good with the offering line-up!

19. Check Out Stowe Cidery

I mentioned Stowe Cidery earlier in the post, but it bears repeating! This is a great place for sipping on hard cider in Vermont, and they also serve up a really good food menu!

Stowe Cider does a really wonderful job with flavor profiles, and offers delicious seasonal releases. During your visit, you can also grab a flight to find which is your favorite, and they offer cans to-go to bring some home with you (which I pretty much always have to do).

In the fall, their outdoor patio is usually open (weather permitting), which is a very fun place to hang out while you try their ciders.

20. Drive Around Lake Willoughby

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Lake Willoughby is simply gorgeous in the fall! And while there’s not a ton of things to do nearby, it makes for a wonderfully scenic drive during foliage season.

You can get to Lake Willoughby from Stowe in just over an hour, and then once you reach the lake, you’ll be surrounded with cliffs covered in bright oranges and reds, with the beautiful blue lake underneath.

If you wanted to make a day trip out of it, you can also visit Willoughby State Forest, which is an awesome place for hiking trails!

21. Take A Fall Foliage Hike

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Speaking of great hikes, that’s definitely one of the best things to do in Vermont when foliage is at its peak! I mean, Vermont is nicknamed the Green Mountain State for a reason, so you know you’re in for some pretty amazing hiking trails. And there’s a good range of trails to explore, with everything from beginner to advanced, so you can find something for just about anyone. And honestly, most hiking trails in the fall season are pretty scenic.

Here are some of the best hikes to do in the fall in Vermont:

• Camel’s Hump Trail in Waterbury
• Owl’s Head Trail in Groton
• Prospect Rock Trail in Manchester
• Stowe Pinnacle Trail in Stowe
• Deer Leap Overlook Trail in Killington

22. Experience The Autumn On The Green Fall Festival

Remember the Great Vermont Corn Maze from earlier in the post? Well, it just so happens that the town the maze is located in is also home to an amazing fall festival. Usually taking place the first weekend in October, the Autumn on the Green Fall Festival in Danville is one of the best ones to experience in Vermont.

With over 200 vendors, ranging from local artisans and antiques, to crafters and delicious food, you’ll be able to have the perfect fall day here. And, it’s completely free to attend.

With all kinds of fall foods and activities at the forefront, like cider donuts and pumpkin-everything, you’ll also be surrounded by gorgeous fall foliage at every turn. This is one you don’t want to miss.

23. Go On A Spooky Tour

Spooky ghost tours are one of the best things to do in all of New England in the fall season, and Vermont is definitely no exception. There are wonderful tours of all kinds throughout the state, ranging from very spooky nighttime tours, to more history-focused walking tours that still have that hair-raising factor.

Here are some really awesome spooky tours to check out in Vermont this fall season:

• Stowe Lantern Tours in Stowe
• Queen City Ghostwalks in Burlington
• Saturday Night Ghost Tours in Woodstock
• Wilson Castle Haunted Paranormal Tours in Proctor

Pro Tip : Many of these tours are offered seasonally only, often through the end of October, so plan accordingly.

24. Get Some Fall-Infused Chocolates

In both the fall season and winter, one of my favorite things to do in Vermont is stock up on seasonal chocolates because there are some pretty amazing chocolatiers throughout the state. And since chocolate is easiest to travel with in the cooler months, the fall season is the perfect time of year to start stocking up!

Lake Champlain Chocolates is a bigger company that’s very popular and sold in stores around New England, and it’s definitely worth checking out. They have a great little shop near everything in Waterbury Center, and their flagship store in Burlington is also great. They release their Apple Cider Caramels around this time, and I love to pick up a box of those each year.

Here are some other great chocolate shops around Vermont to check out this fall:

• Village Peddler and Chocolatorium in Arlington
• Tavernier Chocolates in Brattleboro
• Snowflake Chocolates in Jericho
• The Chocolate Barn in Shaftsbury
• NU Chocolat in Burlington

25. Attend The Bean & Brew Fest

For a fall fest that’s a bit different, you have to checkout the Bean & Brew fest at Jay Peak Resort! Typically held in mid-October, this event is focuses on locally-roasted coffees, as well as the very best New England beers and ciders.

Backdropped by the mountains in the fall season, the event takes place right at the Stateside Base Lodge, and also features live music and lawn games.

For the 2023 event, they’re also hosting a really fun Brew Fest Dinner experience, which you can add on to your admission ticket. The dinner experience features craft beer pairings with a 6-course German-inspired meal. I hope this special dinner continues to be offered each year as well, so be sure to check their website for more info.

Pro Tip : The mountains in this region will likely be past peak foliage by the time this event takes place since it’s pretty far north, but the views are still amazing, and perfect for sipping on all these amazing craft beverages!

26. Take In The Foliage Views From Hildene

Hildene, the Lincoln family home, is one of the top attractions in Manchester, but fall is one of the best times of year to visit! Part of the Hildene experience is the incredible mountain views from the grounds of the estate, and in the fall, it’s all dripping in red and orange hues.

Hildene was the summer home of President Lincoln’s wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, and their son, Robert Todd Lincoln. And by summer home, I mean it’s pretty much a mansion 😊 The exterior is such a stunning display of Georgian Revival architecture, and the grounds and gardens are absolutely beautiful. There are actually some really nice nature trails to enjoy on the property grounds during your visit, which are especially nice in the fall.

During your visit, you can also tour in the inside to get a glimpse into what life was like in the homestead’s prime in the early 1900s.

27. Sample The Maple Syrup

I mean, you can’t come to Vermont in any season, and not taste the local maple syrup, am I right? 😉 But honestly, I much prefer these flavors in the fall and winter season, so the fall is typically when I start to make a point to visit the local sugar shacks and maple stands.

One of my favorite places to do this is at Sugarbush Farms in Woodstock, which I mentioned earlier in the post. They’re surrounded by such beautiful mountain views that are gorgeous during foliage season, and they also make their own cheeses, so it’s definitely a treat to visit!

There’s also a cute little stand just outside of the village of Stowe called Stowe Maple Products , and the family that owns it is so nice and friendly!

But there are places all over the state, and as you’re driving around, keep an eye out for cute little signs that say “Maple Syrup,” and prepare to break! That’s honestly the most fun way to sample the best syrups around Vermont.

28. Explore Charming Manchester

Manchester is such a great town to visit in the fall season, and year-round, honestly. But I personally find it extra magical in the fall. Manchester is home to some nice outlet shops, charming independent shops, wonderful restaurants, and lots of things to do outdoors to enjoy fall foliage.

As mentioned, you’ll find Hildene here in Manchester, which is reason enough to visit, of course. You’ll also want to swing into the cozy Northshire Bookstore, where you’ll find some unique gifts (and books).

Be sure to also visit Hathaway Farms in Manchester, which has a very fun corn maze in the fall season, as well as a great farm store that sells their own maple syrup.

29. Go Apple Picking, Of Course!

Vermont is also a wonderful state for apple picking, and there are some really awesome orchards to explore that offer both juicy apples, and stunning mountain views.

One of my favorites that I love to visit each year is Mad Tom Orchard , which is in Dorset, near Manchester. Once you see the house with the apple shutters, you’ll know you’ve come to the right place. Their orchards are backdropped with the Green Mountains, and they also make really good cider donuts.

Shelburne Orchards is another one of my favorites, and I love to stop by after spending my morning walk the trails at the nearby Shelburne Farm. Shelburne Orchards also makes some pretty awesome cider donuts, so be sure to stock up when you visit!

But most areas in Vermont will have some really nice orchards to explore, so keep an eye out while driving around!

30. Stroll Through Bennington

Another wonderful town for foliage and fall fun is Bennington in southern Vermont! The historic part of Bennington near the Bennington Battle Monument has some really nice foliage color, and there’s also a cute little downtown and Main Street. The downtown area is very small, but there are some nice shops and eateries to check out.

Bennington is also home to the Apple Barn Bakery & Café and Armstrong Farm, both mentioned earlier in the post. So, with all these things combined, plus some nice opportunities for antique hunting, it makes for a lovely getaway in Vermont in the fall.

31. Take In The Views From The 100-Mile Overlook

One great, lesser-known gem in southern Vermont is the amazing 100-mile overlook in Marlboro. This is a scenic area right by the Hogback Mountain Gift Shop that has a wonderful view that you can … you guessed it! … see for over 100 miles on a clear day. While this is amazing year-round, it’s especially beautiful in the fall when foliage is as its peak.

And the gift shop next door is a fun place to look around! You’ll be able to find all kinds of Vermont souvenirs inside, including apparel, foods, and lots more. While this all doesn’t take too much time to visit, if you’re exploring southern Vermont, this is definitely a place that should be on your radar.

Pro Tip : This area is less than 10 minutes from the cute town of Wilmington, which is a great place to start a Route 100 road trip!

Here are some links you may find helpful, including some detailed guides:

• Best Things To Do In Stowe, VT
• Best Things To Do In Woodstock, VT
• Best Things To Do In Waterbury, VT
• Vermont Covered Bridges Tour Itinerary

Where To Stay In Vermont In Foliage Season (Best Towns & Hotels)

I almost always suggest you stay in Stowe or Woodstock when you visit Vermont in the fall. For long weekend getaways, these two towns are perfect options because they’re only about an hour and 20 minutes from each other, so you can easily see both in a couple of days. They also offer that small-town Vermont charm you’re hoping for, and have plenty of things to do both in-town, and on the outskirts.

Even if you’re planning a longer trip through Vermont during foliage season, staying a night (or two or three!) in Stowe or Woodstock is a great idea.

Where To Stay In Stowe :

🍁 Splurge: The Lodge At Spruce Peak

🍁 Moderate: The Green Mountain Inn (right on Main Street!)

🍁 Budget: Stowe Motel & Snowdrift

Where To Stay In Woodstock :

🍁 Luxury: The Woodstock Inn & Resort (it’s called Vermont’s most beautiful address!)

🍁 Moderate/Splurge: 506 Inn On The River

🍁 Budget: Sleep Woodstock Motel

If you’re looking to have a more secluded getaway, but still stay in a cute town, I love recommending Grafton for that type of trip! Grafton is a very small town that has a wonderful inn to stay at that’s really cozy in the fall season. It’s also home to an adorable cheese shop, a great little market/café, and a recreation area with scenic nature trails. It’s within driving distance to most places in southern Vermont, including the Vermont Country Store in Rockingham, Manchester, and Bennington, so it makes a nice home base, too.

Where To Stay In Grafton :

🍁 The Grafton Inn : A gorgeous historic inn, with an even more beautiful barn. Walkable to the cheese shop and market!

A great region to also consider staying in during Vermont in the fall is the Mad River Valley, in the town of Waitsfield . This is a popular ski region in the winter, but also has wonderful foliage displays in the fall, a cute little downtown, and is accessible to many of the places mentioned in this post. It also tends to have more affordable hotels and accommodations, and has quite a few covered bridges nearby!

Where To Stay In Waitsfield :

🍁 Moderate: The Featherbed Inn

🍁 Budget/Moderate: Mad River Lodge

For southern Vermont, Manchester makes for a nice home base! While it’s a bit more commercialized with some outlet shops, it still maintains lots of charm, and has really great restaurants and independent shops. There are also some beautiful covered bridges nearby, and Manchester is home to Hildene (as mentioned earlier in the post).

Where To Stay In Manchester :

🍁 Splurge: The Kimpton Taconic

🍁 Moderate: The Palmer House & Resort

I have an entire post with even more ideas for you 🍁🍂 Click here to read my detailed guide on where to stay in Vermont in the fall season!

Best Cities To Visit In Vermont In The Fall

While most of the best places to see in Vermont in the fall are the small, quaint towns and the idyllic countryside, the cities should also be places to consider seeing during your visit!

I’ve touched on a few throughout the post, but the best cities to check out in Vermont in the fall are :

Burlington and Montpelier are especially exciting to visit. Burlington is home to the amazing Church Street Marketplace for shopping, a waterfront park along Lake Champlain, and amazing breweries and restaurants.

Montpelier is such a cool city that also has great shops and restaurants, and fun fall things to do like admire the foliage at Hubbard Park, walk through the Enchanted Forest (as mentioned earlier!), and visit Peck Orchard Farm in East Montpelier.

Vergennes is one of the smallest cities in the entire country, and it packs in a lot of charm! You’ll find great fall color here, as well as scenic views at Vergennes Falls Park, tasty beers at Hired Hand Brewing Co., and a great “small town” feel.

Lastly, Rutland is a nice addition to a fall itinerary! It’s got a great downtown area, wonderful places to eat, and access to outdoors activities.

What About Vermont In November?

You may be wondering if Vermont is worth visiting in November – after all, the foliage season is over this time of the year, and winter hasn’t quite arrived yet.

Personally, I love the month of November in New England. It’s become such a joy over the last few years, especially because everything is just quiet, which is a welcomed pace after an exciting foliage season, and right before a busy holiday season.

So, Vermont in November is really a personal preference. You are right between two seasons, so hotel prices are usually much more affordable, and it’ll be easier to get reservations at popular restaurants. The downside to Vermont in November is that some fall attractions like gondolas, corn mazes, etc. will be closed for the season, and all the trees will be bare, but you’ll still see leaves swirling around on the roads and sidewalks. Also, you could get snow.

Mid-November is usually when Vermont sees its first big snowfall (1 inch or more of accumulation), so you may be lookin’ at a winter trip more than a fall trip this month. It’s not likely you’ll get a big blizzard, but depending on when you plan to visit in November, snow is not off the table. It’s a bit of a gamble.

Do I personally like Vermont in November? I sure do! It’s peaceful, cozy, and still beautiful. However, it’s not for everyone.

Tips For Visiting Vermont In The Fall

→ Prepare for crowds at peak foliage season, but know it’s worth it! Fall is one of the most popular times to visit Vermont (the other is winter for skiing), so you’ll want to expect crowds at the popular attractions. The most beautiful places to see like Stowe, Woodstock, etc. are also popular, but worth braving the crowds. Don’t let this deter you from planning a fall trip.

→ Expect the highest prices & book in advance . Along with crowds, this is probably the most expensive time to visit Vermont, and it will be hard to do on a tight budget. You’ll want to make hotel and restaurant reservations in advance to make sure you get the best options for both.

→ Rain is likely , but not a sure thing . I would expect to have some on your trip, so plan accordingly. The fall season begins to bring more days of rain than the summer.

→ Weather can be all over the place, actually. In fact, weather throughout New England in the fall is a mixed bag. Some years, I’ve had warm, sunny days for most of my trip, and other years, it’s been cold and rainy. It’s best to check the weather forecast a few days before leaving, and then pack accordingly. But generally, even on warm, sunny days, you can expect chilly evenings, so you’ll definitely have a chance to wear those cozy sweaters you were hoping to bring 😉

→ Offline maps! I lose cell service all the time in Vermont, even when I’m in a town center (I have Verizon, just FYI). Before your trip, be sure to offline maps so you have a back-up if you lose service.

→ What to pack? Speaking of packing, let’s breakdown what you’ll need. Tailor this to your personal preferences, the weather forecast, and how long you plan to stay.

• Waterproof hiking boots if you plan to do any hikes.
• Hiking clothes, if needed.
• Rain boots if there’s rain in the forecast. Rain boots that look like Chelsea boots are a great option for versatility, or waterproof sneakers like Vessis.
• Sneakers or flat fall boots for walking around the towns.
• Layers, layers, layers! Since it’s likely you’ll experience both warm-ish days, and chilly days, layers are key. I usually pack long or short-sleeved t-shirts and sweaters/cardigans to wear over.
• Light jacket, hats and scarves if the weather is predicted to be chilly.
• Jeans are perfect for everyone – that’ll probably be all you’ll need for pants.
• Nice dinner outfits if you’re planning a fancy-ish dinner out, but honestly, most restaurants in Vermont are casual (even the nice ones!). If you know you’re visiting a nice restaurant where a more put-together outfit is preferable, you can get away with a cute dress and boots, or jeans and a nice top.
• Day pack for hiking or day trips.
• Reusable water bottle.
• Camera! Definitely don’t forget this! If you have a nice DSLR or Mirrorless model, this is the trip to bring it. You’ll also want extra batteries, and a large capacity memory card because it’ll be in use quite a bit.

→ Lastly, always be respectful of private property, and never put yourself or others in danger to get the perfect photo . If there’s not a safe place to pull over on the side of the road to snap a photo, then it’s not worth it. And, of course, obey any signage about private property, and use common sense. Don’t park in driveways to get a great photo. I promise that you’ll get so many amazing photos from your trip while respecting the locals, and staying safe!

What Is Vermont Known For In The Fall?

If you haven’t guessed already, Vermont is known for its spectacular foliage displays, postcard-worthy rural landscapes, scenic drives, fall farm stands, maple syrup, and mountain views in the fall season.

More Of My Vermont Travel Guides:

• Vermont In The Winter
• Vermont In The Spring
• All The Best Things To Do In Vermont
• Best Places To Stay In Vermont In The Fall
• What Is Vermont Known For? I’ll Tell You!
• Best Vermont Pumpkin Patches & Farm Stands To Visit In The Fall
• Christmas In Vermont: All The Most Festive Things To Do

More posts you may find helpful:

• The Perfect New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary
• Best Stops To Make Driving From Boston To Stowe, VT
• Exciting Things To Do In New England In The Fall
• The Best New England Souvenirs To Look For On Your Trip
• Vermont vs. New Hampshire In The Fall
• Is New England In November Worth Visiting?
• Thanksgiving In New England: Cozy Getaway Ideas & Things To Do!

That’s A Wrap On Best Things To Do In Vermont In The Fall

And there you have it! Now that you’re a seasoned pro on all the best things to do in Vermont in the fall, you’re ready to plan the perfect foliage getaway. Whether it’s a visit to Stowe or Woodstock for the quintessential Vermont village experience, or an epic road trip along Route 100, one thing’s absolutely sure – it’s going to your most memorable fall trip yet!

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Fall in Vermont – The Most Scenic Road Trip Itinerary

Vermont is one of the most scenic states in the country, and fall is the perfect time to visit. The leaves start changing color in early October, and the peak season is usually around Columbus Day weekend. 

If you’re planning a trip to Vermont this fall, you’re in for a treat. There are so many beautiful places to see and things to do. To help you plan your trip, I’ve put together the perfect road trip itinerary. This itinerary includes the best places to visit, where to stay, and what to do in each location.

The best time to visit Vermont

Mother Nature transforms Vermont beyond recognition in the fall.  This has to be one of the best autumn landscapes I’ve ever seen. Without a doubt, the best time to visit Vermont is during the fall season! The colors of fall in Vermont are breathtaking.

As the weather cools, Green Mountain State puts on a spectacular display of color. Vermont’s fall foliage is considered one of the most phenomenal in the world. Capture the best autumn views by driving along country roads driving down Route 100. Don’t miss the Vermont Country Store along the way.

The state’s abundance and diversity of maples, oaks, and birches ensure a rich palette of yellow, brown, and bronze tones. These are just a few words to describe fall in Vermont. The visual effects are unforgettable.

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The route: where to go and what to see 

The picturesque route through downtown Vermont is nearly 400 miles long. You can see the fall in Vermont in one day by taking this route and stopping at some of the places I recommend. However, it is preferable to take a weekend road trip and see everything at your leisure.

Route 12 south from Montpelier to Woodstock is my suggested route. After that, take Route 100 north, then Route 100B back to Montpelier. While this road trip may be full of surprises, one thing is certain: you will see the beautiful fall foliage in Vermont along the way. Let’s get started!

Forests cover 78% of the land, and their density is comparable to that of the Cantal. Vermont is, as you can see, very rural! So, what are you going to do there? I recently read that there are at least two good months to visit Vermont: September and October. It is a dream location for leaf peeping, or observing the sumptuous fall foliage. Let’s travel 1,800 kilometers in a week to find this gem.

The rolling hills and mountains are the perfect backdrop for a road trip

My scenic journey begins in Montpelier, on the northern edge of central Vermont. The smallest state capital in the United States, Montpelier is 293 miles from Boston and 158 miles from Hartford. To get to the starting point, you can drive on Interstate 89.

Leaving Montpelier behind, I take Highway 12 and head south to Northfield Falls.

Northfield Falls

Vermont has a lot of covered bridges. However, at Northfield Falls, the two can be seen simultaneously, with visitors wandering across the first to see the second. This image is unique to New England, so you should photograph it!

Continue on Route 12 in the direction of Bethel.

Betel is an integral part of the landscape. This town is also home to the White River National Fish Hatchery, which focuses on the restoration of Atlantic salmon in the Connecticut River. After leaving Bethel, continue on the road south to Woodstock.

Woodstock is a classic Vermont town where you should spend some time walking around and trying the local restaurants. I recommend seeing the Quechee Gorge and the Billings Farm and Museum.

Quechee Gorge is like a small version of the Grand Canyon, only in Vermont. While not as awesome as Arizona’s, there are reportedly plenty of hiking trails. So don’t miss this opportunity to take in the scenery and stretch your legs a bit on this trip. And while you’re at it, take a stroll through the picnic area overlooking the waterfalls.

Founded in 1871, Billings is now a working farm. Its museum paints a picture of farm life in the late 1800s. Depending on when you visit the museum, you can participate in some seasonal activities in addition to admiring the fall leaves in Vermont. So check the calendar of events when planning your road trip and you may find something interesting. Don’t forget that they have interesting daily activities as well.

After seeing everything in this area, continue on Route 4 for about 32 miles to Killington.

Killington is a well-known ski area with six trails. Climb Killington Pea k (1,010 meters) to see the spectacular views and the Vermont fall foliage that has spread throughout the area. If you don’t want to climb, you can take the K-1 gondola to the top.

In Killington, you’ve arrived at the halfway point for viewing Vermont’s fall foliage. If you want to spend the night in this area, I recommend staying in Rutland. However, because this area is popular with tourists looking to see the fall colors, make sure to book your accommodations in advance.

Beyond the Green Mountain Forest

After waking up and having a hearty breakfast, hop back in the car and follow Route 100 along the border of the Green Mountain National Forest. It will take you through Pittsfield, Hancock, and Granville. And, honestly, it’s the best part of this trip to see fall in Vermont.

From near Hancock and close to Route 100, you can take Route 125 to Texas Falls. The easy hike to the falls is beautiful year round, but even more so this season. It’s an incredible place to photograph the fall leaves in Vermont.

After Hancock, when you get north of Granvill, you can stop to see Moss Glen Falls. You’ll be driving 11 miles through the wilderness, so go for a walk and enjoy the scenery.

At the End of the Fall Road in Vermont

On the final leg of this road trip, leave Route 100 and follow Route 100B past the village of Moretown. You’ll head north to Middlesex, and as soon as you get on Highway 89, you’ll be on your way to Montpelier. Don’t be sad. The last leg of this scenic drive offers more photo opportunities to capture the fall leaves in Vermont!

This scenic drive to view the Vermont fall leaves offers many opportunities for detours. My advice is to not rush and to walk on the back roads that shun the busy highways. You’ll have a greater appreciation for fall in Vermont, and you’ll also discover why the residents wouldn’t move anywhere else in the world!

What to pack for your trip 

Nothing beats a road trip by car for getting where you want, when you want, and especially at your own pace. Traveling by car allows you to stop whenever you want for a quick picnic by the sea, or to continue driving to arrive earlier than planned. However, a long journey necessitates spending time—a lot of time—on the road.

A long road trip can be exhausting, and if you realize you forgot your charger at home, it will be too late to turn around. So, if you really want to enjoy your trip and vacation, make sure you’ve thought of everything. So here’s our packing list for everything you’ll need.

There are numerous travel lists available on the internet. These lists of items, which are frequently thematic, specialize in a specific type of travel, such as southern sun, camping, hiking, or family travel. None of them were completely satisfactory to me.

So I made my own list, dividing it into four logical subcategories:

It sounds silly, but it’s something that’s all too often overlooked: make sure your car is ready for a big trip, with all the surprises and mishaps that can happen at any time. Make sure you take along a spare tire, a spare tire or a temporary air kit to help you out in case of a flat tire. 

Believe me, there’s nothing like a flat tire to ruin a vacation: it’s best to have something to change a tire with you. Having the equipment is good, but knowing how to change a wheel is better! If you need a little practice, you know what you have to do before you leave?

Even though breakdowns and flat tires happen very rarely (and I hope they don’t happen to you), these moments of panic can still happen. Therefore, it is important to be well prepared with an emergency kit, which I recommend you bring :

• A flashlight is always useful if you need to change a tire or simply ask for assistance, and a flashlight is always useful if you need to change a tire or simply ask for assistance. 
• Safety triangle: if you get stuck on the side of the road, remember to put the reflective triangle well behind your car to avoid collisions and over-accidents. 
• A first aid kit: bandages, antiseptics, and painkillers: it is better to have them with you, just in case. 
• A jump lead is very useful if you ever need to restart your battery. 
• A mini fire extinguisher: for those who need to be reassured. 

Before leaving, remember to check that your tires are properly inflated, that your insurance is up to date, and remember to bring your license!

Read also : Best places to visit in the fall – USA

• If you are going to be on the road for a long time, it is better to have a kit of toiletries at hand, in which you can put :
• Hand sanitizer (especially useful when gas station restrooms lack soap or are not always very clean…)
• Wipes 
• Chewing gum
• Toothbrushes and toothpaste

Cables, chargers, and everything technical

Maps and guidebooks are great, but it’s time to live with the times. I know you’re planning to take them with you, but make sure you haven’t forgotten:

If you use your cell phone as a GPS, be careful when you cross areas where the network and connection are very weak. A backup GPS can always help. 

Off-line GPS: very useful if you are abroad without a network or local SIM card. Downloading an off-line GPS app will be very useful. You just have to download the maps of the cities, which will be displayed even without connection or network. You won’t be able to make a real-time route, but it can really help you to find your way if needed. 

A USB charger, with the cigarette lighter adapter if needed, is a must if you don’t want to run out of battery. 

A removable battery: a second battery can always be useful if you don’t have an outlet nearby.

Fall in Vermont: the perfect getaway

Here are some ideas for a getaway to Vermont. So take a trip to Stowe, a charming little bicentennial village founded in 1794 by the Luce family. The Recreation Path, an 8-kilometer path that allows you to enjoy the beauty of Vermont, is particularly noteworthy. 

Don’t hesitate to visit the Shelburne farms, which are very educational, especially if you have children. You can visit the museum but also do different activities such as kayaking, playing tennis or visiting the gardens.

The View from Mount Mansfield 

If you want to get some height, go climb Mount Mansfield. At 1,339 meters, it’s the highest point in the entire state of Vermont. It’s also the most visited mountain; more than 40,000 hikers come to hike the trails each year.

Sweet tooth 

For those with a sweet tooth or who may have a shortage of maple syrup, a trip to the Bragg family farm may be a good idea. The Braggs have been making maple syrup for eight generations, and you’ll find some great products there.

Lake Champlain

Of course, a must-see is Lake Champlain. It’s the perfect place for a sailing trip or simply to contemplate its beauty from the shore.

And once you’re done with your Vermont getaway, if you’re looking for one in Quebec, here’s one to do in Val David.

So, will you be going to Vermont this summer?

Vermont’s hidden gems

Vermont, a land of green hills, quiet hamlets, and peace-loving Americans, offers visitors more than just placid Holstein cows to gaze upon and Ben & Jerry’s ice cream to taste. It also hides treasures and precious gems.

There is a museum unlike any other in the United States in Shelburne, a small town about 10 miles south of Burlington: the essence of American folk art concentrated in a unique place thanks to the unique vision of a woman who died over 40 years ago.

Electra Havemeyer Webb was born into a prosperous family and married well. She was an avid collector who accumulated objects in her various homes (New York, Long Island, the Adirondacks, and Shelburne). She had developed an interest in folk art. an art form she considered pure and authentic, bringing out the beauty in everyday objects.

Following her husband’s retirement in 1947, she embarked on a major project to establish the “collection of collections.” She established what is now the Shelburne Museum on a large plot of land she acquired in Shelburne.

There are so many things to do in Vermont during the fall season

There are no fewer than 37 buildings and permanent exhibits with some 150,000 objects. The list of what the museum has to offer is impressive: a reconstructed general store; a large paddlewheel boat from Lake Champlain, weighing nearly 900 tons, moved to the site; an exhibition of quilts; a period school; superb weathervanes; a gigantic collection of circus miniatures; a covered bridge; dozens of horse-drawn carriages; in short, lovers of popular art as well as neophytes in the field will be satisfied.

The museum should be visited over the course of a full day. If that isn’t enough, tickets are good for two days.

The museum is two hours from Montreal, and with our loonie on the rise, the United States is finally becoming more affordable.

The Inn at Shelburne Farms

There was a time when Lake Champlain attracted the wealthy vacationers of the northeastern United States. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, New York society gathered there to escape the heat wave on the windy shores of this great body of water. Shelburne did not escape in this fashion.

After receiving an inheritance ($10 million in 1881, a fortune at the time), one of the daughters of the wealthy Vanderbilt family conceived the idea of building a home in Shelburne. Her husband, a physician, also wanted to establish a model farm. Several hundred acres of land were acquired for this purpose.

The landscaping of the grounds was entrusted to the architect Frederick Law Olmsted, who was responsible for Central Park in New York and Mount Royal Park in Montreal.

All of the magnificent buildings and landscaping of the time still exist today. They have been meticulously renovated and preserved. The memory of Lila Vanderbilt Webb and Dr. William Seward lives on. They were the parents of Electra Havemeyer Webb’s husband, for whom the Shelburne Museum is named.

Transformed into a hotel

Their home has been transformed into a beautiful hotel ( The Inn at Shelburne Farms ), and the farm has become an educational center for children, where they still produce excellent raw milk cheddar.

The big house was abandoned for a long time: from 1936, when Lila Vanderbilt, who outlived her husband by 10 years, died, until the late 1980s. The couple’s children almost dismembered the farm completely. In extremis, they decided to create a non-profit organization with an educational mission.

The house would be transformed into a hotel, the profits of which would be used to finance the farm. Millions were spent on a major renovation project, and the Inn opened in the early 1990s.

The result is striking. It is a large stone and red-brick Queen Anne style building with 13 chimneys. It is located on a large point that juts out into Lake Champlain. An elegant period garden, also reconstructed, embellishes the front part of the property.

Extraordinary efforts have been made to preserve the authenticity of the interior and exterior of the house. Each of the 24 rooms is furnished in a particular style.

The furniture, which has been preserved, is of the period, and the decor is entirely reconstituted. For example, the room that is called “pink” because it has ceramics of this color, has the original bed and bookcase, which gives a singular atmosphere.

Lodging and food

An interesting possibility for lodging: the Heart of tche Village bed and breakfast , located, as its name indicates, in the heart of the village of Shelburne. It offers a period atmosphere with modern comforts, at prices a little lower than the Inn.

But a stay in Shelburne can also be very affordable. Near the museum and farm, on Route 7, there are several reasonably priced hotels, such as the Econo Lodge and Holiday Inn.

For fine dining, there are several options for visitors. Two restaurants in the Shelburne area stand out for their fresh ingredients and local production.

At Starry Night Café on Route 7, the goat cheese ravioli with fresh tomatoes was truly exquisite. The lamb was also worth a visit the night we were there. Further down the road in Burlington, Smokejack on Church Street is another good place to go, albeit in a much more urban setting, with good local ingredients.

Finally, in Vermont, there are a lot of places to discover, and it is easy to understand why this part of the United States welcomes no less than 13 million tourists every year!

If you’re looking for a breathtaking fall road trip, look no further than Vermont. From the capital city of Montpelier to the small town of Stowe, this route takes you through some of the most scenic countrysides in the Northeast. Soak in the colorful leaves, enjoy a pumpkin spice latte, and take in the fresh air – this is fall at its finest. Be sure to comment and share this itinerary with your friends.

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I’m Magdalena – Globetrotter, Free Spirit, and your personal travel guide. Since 2017, I’ve been calling France my home while exploring and falling in love with 35+ diverse countries, from the frost-kissed ski towns to the sun-kissed beaches of Costa Rica and El Salvador. Thrive and Wander is a testament to my adventures, filled with destination guides, travel itineraries, and tips for solo female travel. So grab your backpack, let go of your fears, and join me on this journey to explore our beautiful world!

Vermont in the Fall: Essential Places to Visit While Leaf Peeping

By Author Tara Schatz

Posted on Published: May 6, 2024

The Green Mountain State shines in just about every season, but Vermont in the fall is special.

Autumn is when people travel from near and far to get a glimpse of the thrilling carpet of colors that blanket the mountains, forests, and fields starting in late September.

I’ve lived in Vermont for most of my life, and every fall is still a magical experience for me.

Those beautiful fall colors in Vermont sustain me through a winter that is always long and cold and often bleak and grey.

Every year in the fall, I make it my mission to drop everything and explore this beautiful state I call home.

I’d love to share some of the best places to visit in Vermont in the fall before winter opens up a whole new set of opportunities.

I’m based in Southern Vermont , which is a road-trippers paradise, but the whole state deserves some serious exploration.

This guide explores quintessential Vermont fall foliage destinations that visitors won’t want to miss, as well as some unique and beautiful spots that fly under the radar.

First, I’d like to answer a few questions about Vermont fall foliage that I receive in multitudes via email or Facebook starting as early as June. 

Psst… Did you know that we run a Facebook group dedicated to all the best things to do in Vermont? It’s particularly active in the fall, as that’s the busiest season in Vermont for tourists. Join the group to ask questions, share photos, and immerse yourself in all things Vermont.

Table of Contents

When is Peak Foliage in Vermont?

October 11, at 10:59 am. I wish I could be that specific in my answer!

If you are planning your Vermont fall foliage vacation in the summer, you want to know when to book your flight or hotel room so that you don’t miss the prime leaf-peeping season.

In my opinion, it’s better to be a bit early for the fall foliage season in Vermont because you can always go up in elevation to experience more vibrant colors. If you are visiting the Green Mountains, which run north to south through the middle of Vermont, I suggest visiting in early October, especially if you are traveling to the Northeast Kingdom or Stowe.

If you are visiting Southern Vermont, the Lake Champlain Valley, or the Connecticut River Valley for Vermont fall foliage, I would suggest coming during the second week of October.

Unfortunately, Mother Nature doesn’t follow a strict calendar, and Vermont fall foliage colors vary depending on temperatures and rainfall.

Based on averages from year to year, the second weekend in October is the sweet spot and the best time to visit Vermont in the fall, but the trend has also skewed toward late colors over the past few years.

Where are the Best Places to See Vermont Fall Foliage?

Another question that I am asked over and over again is where the best places are to experience Vermont Fall Foliage. Three-quarters of Vermont is covered by forests – vibrant maples, stately oaks, and colorful ash, birch, and larch.

There are so many beautiful back roads in Vermont, and I guess my first suggestion would be to ditch the GPS and pick up a Delorme Gazetteer for Vermont and New Hampshire. If you do want to rely on your GPS, be sure to download Google or Apple Maps over Wi-Fi before you head out adventuring.

My favorite way to experience fall in Vermont is to get lost on the elaborate network of back roads that snake through the mountains.

Some of my favorite back roads to explore are in the Cambridge/Jeffersonville/Johnson area, the Northeast Kingdom, and Bennington County.

Of course, there’s more to Vermont in the fall than colorful leaves. Do you want to hike beautiful Vermont trails ? Visit tourist attractions? Enjoy fall festivals ?

The best places to visit in Vermont in the fall depend a lot on what you enjoy doing.

No matter where you go in Vermont, you’ll enjoy small-town hospitality, local treats, and quirky attractions. You can drive from one end of Vermont to the other in under four hours, so if you choose a home base in the north and in the south, you should be able to cover a lot of ground!

Read Next: A 5-Day Fall Foliage Road Trip on Scenic Route 100 in Vermont

Before we dig into the best places to visit in Vermont in the fall, a disclaimer: Vermont is a popular fall destination. Many of the spots I suggest are not hidden gems, and because they are quite crowded during the fall, they may not be what you’re looking for.

I will also suggest a few places off the beaten path for those of you who are craving a bit more solitude.

Pros and Cons of Visiting Vermont’s Popular Tourist Towns

Two of Vermont’s most popular tourist towns, Stowe and Woodstock, are gorgeous in the fall, and I would be remiss not to include them here.

The benefit of visiting either of these towns in the fall is that there are lots of beautiful spots to explore —hiking trails, historic sites, attractions, and vistas. Plus, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and lodging that can handle the influx of fall visitors.

The downside, of course, is that Stowe and Woodstock (and several other towns) become very crowded in the fall. There will be traffic, long wait times at restaurants, and parking issues at trailheads. You will likely share popular viewpoints with dozens of leaf peepers, and you will have to book lodging and make restaurant reservations well in advance.

There are many small towns in Vermont where you can have a wonderful fall experience—you will just be more limited in your dining, shopping, and lodging options.

The Best Places to Visit in Vermont in the Fall

The fall foliage season is the most popular time to visit Vermont. It’s a mixed blessing for travelers. On the one hand, Vermont in the fall is incredibly beautiful, and every town and village wants you to visit.

There are festivals, sidewalk sales, and special events all over the state to celebrate autumn in Vermont and to celebrate you, the traveler who is coming to spend money at local Vermont businesses.

Yes, visiting Vermont in the fall means more traffic on back roads, not to mention a harder time booking rooms and making dinner reservations.

Is it worth it? Absolutely!

I urge you to immerse yourself in Vermont’s most colorful season and try the following excursions – the best places to go and the best things to do in Vermont in the fall.

Discover Fall in Stowe, Vermont

Stowe is a small mountain town that attracts visitors year-round, and there are incredible things to do here in all four seasons.

Winter might be the busiest time in Stowe, thanks to the renowned skiing at Stowe Mountain Resort, but fall is equally appealing.

If you are visiting Vermont for a fall vacation and don’t have much time to spend, my suggestion is to make Stowe or nearby Waterbury your home base for the weekend. Stowe has enough things to do to keep you busy for a long weekend, and you’ll be treated to expansive green mountain views, fantastic food, and friendly people.

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the mountain towns and villages that make this part of Vermont so special. Drive the back roads, and don’t be afraid to get a little lost.

Here are our favorite Vermont fall attractions near Stowe.

Hike or Drive up Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s Tallest Peak

Mount Mansfield gets its name because, when viewed from the east, it resembles the profile of a giant, sleeping face.

Reaching 4,394 feet at the chin, this is one of only two places in Vermont where you’ll find an arctic-alpine tundra ecosystem, complete with a plethora of tiny, rare plants that can only be found in such high, windswept climates as this — unless, of course, you want to travel to the far reaches of our continent’s northern borders.

More than 40,000 visitors flock to the top of Mount Mansfield each year, and that’s because you can drive to the top on the auto toll road from Stowe Mountain Resort. This is one of seven Vermont mountains that you can drive to the top of , and yes, the views are worth the admission price.

For a longer and more organic adventure, head to Underhill State Park and hike the Sunset Ridge Trail (5.1 miles round-trip) to the top of Mount Mansfield. This is a strenuous hike, but again, the views make it worth every drop of sweat.

Mount Mansfield is a true gem and one of the most beautiful places to hike during the Vermont fall foliage season.

Looking for an easier hike? Here are some easy and moderate hikes in Stowe with gorgeous views!

Take a Mini Fall Foliage Road Trip through Smuggler’s Notch and Beyond

Not only is Route 108 through Smuggler’s Notch one of the most beautiful roads in the state, but it’s also has a pretty interesting history. 

In the early 1800s, the United States Government embargoed imports from England. The British started shipping goods to Canada, and smugglers bringing contraband into the states stored the booty in the caves around the area that is now Smuggler’s Notch Pass.

The heavily wooded paths in the Notch made the perfect route for smuggling these goods during the War of 1812.

Fast forward to prohibition, and Smuggler’s Notch was again used by smugglers who brought alcohol down from Canada to sell throughout New England. The most well-used path was eventually replaced with a seasonal road.

As long as you aren’t driving a large RV, tour bus, or semi, you can drive up through the Notch. There are places to pull off and explore, plus a few trailheads.

The hike to Bingham Falls starts just across the road from Smuggler’s Notch State Park, and the trailhead to Sterling Pond is right in the Notch. Both hikes are amazing and not too difficult.

For a quick fall foliage road trip that can be completed in about an hour (without stops), take Route 108 north out of Stowe, drive through Smuggler’s Notch, turn right onto Route 15 in Jeffersonville, drive through Johnson, turn right onto Route 100 in Morrisville, and head back into the village of Stowe.

Be sure to stop in all of these adorable villages for shopping, dining, and the friendliest Vermonters!

Smuggler’s Notch is a must-visit attraction in all four seasons, but it’s especially lovely in the fall.

Also Read: Hike to Sterling Pond Perched High Above Smuggler’s Notch

Explore Stowe Village

While you’re in Stowe, be sure to meander around town—it won’t take long. Quaint shops, breweries, and restaurants line the streets, all with a gorgeous mountain backdrop. Stowe is one of the most popular and beautiful towns in Vermont.

In Stowe, visit the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum, walk on the Stowe Recreation Path, and hike up to Sunset Rock for — you guessed it — the sunset. Pop into Black Cap Coffee for lunch or an afternoon espresso, and treat yourself to dinner at Idletyme Brewing (great outdoor seating and fantastic onion rings).

Visit Waterbury, Vermont

Waterbury is even smaller than the town of Stowe, but there are a few awesome spots that you have to visit before leaving the area. It’s located just south of Stowe Village on Route 100.

For beautiful mountain and lake views, visit Waterbury Center State Park . You can hike along Waterbury Reservoir on a short nature trail — 1/2 mile and very easy.

Next, stop at the world-famous Ben & Jerry’s Factory for a tour. Sample some divine ice cream, and be sure to visit the Flavor Graveyard, where you can pay homage to your long-lost ice cream loves. Note that Ben & Jerry’s gets VERY crowded in the fall.

Not far from Ben & Jerry’s is another iconic spot. Cold Hollow Cider Mill is known for having some of the best cider donuts in the state, not to mention hard and soft cider, and an amazing gift shop.

Where to Stay in Stowe or Waterbury in the Fall

• Tälta Lodge Bluebird: Our new favorite place to stay in Stowe, this beautiful lodge is located on the Mountain Road with the river flowing behind the property. You can easily access the Stowe Recreation Path and Smuggler’s Notch is just up the road. Rooms come with an outdoor seating area, and there is an indoor pool and sauna. The Stuga Cottages at Tälta Lodge feature private patios, 425 square feet of living space, and a kitchenette.
• The Trapp Family Lodge : The Trapp Family, fictionalized in The Sound of Music , fled Austria during World War II and landed in this beautiful Vermont town. The lodge that you can visit today isn’t the original Trapp Family Lodge, but it’s still a beautiful and historic landmark with hiking and mountain biking trails and lovely accommodations. It’s a perfect jumping-off point for your Vermont vacation.
• Grey Fox Inn : This lovely inn is located within walking distance of shopping and restaurants in Stowe Village. Amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, a hot tub, and a sauna. You can access the Stowe Recreation Path from the property, and the views aren’t bad either. Book a room, suite, or condo for your fall foliage vacation.

Explore Woodstock, Vermont in the Fall

Woodstock is a quintessential New England Village on the eastern slope of the Green Mountains. This is a busy tourist area, but if you don’t mind leaf-peeping among friendly strangers, you’ll be in good company!

In Woodstock, you can explore five covered bridges, discover Vermont’s only national park, and visit a general store that’s been operating since 1886. This gem of a town makes a great home base while you explore all the best things to do in Vermont in the fall.

Here’s a local’s guide to the best things to do in Woodstock, Vermont in the fall , as well as the neighboring village of Quechee.

Our guide includes our favorite tourist attractions, places to stay, and of course, our favorite hiking trails — because we obviously can’t talk about things to do in fall without mentioning our favorite autumn activity. 

Where to Stay in Woodstock, Vermont

Here are our top picks for places to stay in Woodstock and Quechee.

Woodstock Inn & Resort :  This posh resort is located in Woodstock Village, within walking distance of everything downtown. It’s the perfect spot for a special weekend or fall getaway.

506 On the River Inn:   Featuring rooms with panoramic river and garden views, 506 On the River Inn features an indoor pool and sauna, gym and kids’ game rooms, and a restaurant.

Log Cabin Apartment in Woodstock:  Walk to everything from this beautiful apartment with room for four guests. This special spot is located in a wooded setting but is just a 1/4-mile to downtown. There’s a full kitchen if you don’t want to dine out in Woodstock.

Historic Cottage on a Vineyard:   A beautiful 900-square-foot cottage on Gilbert’s Hill with access to hiking trails. The space includes two bedrooms, one bathroom, a full kitchen, and a private deck overlooking the vineyard.

Visit Bennington and Manchester, Vermont in the Fall

Of course, I am biased — Bennington has been my hometown for the past 18 years, and I believe it’s one of the best places to visit in Vermont in the fall.

Bennington is a small community with a historic downtown area, beautiful scenery, and lots of opportunities for recreation.

Here are a few things you shouldn’t miss while visiting Bennington, Vermont in the fall.

Explore the Covered Bridges of Bennington County

Vermont boasts more than 100 covered bridges, the highest number per square mile in the United States. Bennington County, in the southwest corner of Vermont, is home to five, all relatively close to each other.

You’ll find three covered bridges in Bennington/North Bennington and two more in Arlington. They all feature authentic construction, but some have been rebuilt over the years. The Arlington bridges are both perched above fabulous swimming holes if you happen to be meandering on a hot summer day. 

Even if covered bridges aren’t your thing, I urge you to visit this corner of Vermont   in the fall , where you’ll find rolling hills, bustling farm stands, art galleries, museums, and shopping opportunities.

The Appalachian and Long Trails share a single path through these mountains, and both Robert Frost and Norman Rockwell once called Bennington County home. You can even visit Robert Frost’s grave behind the Old First Church in Old Bennington.

Read More: the Covered Bridges of Bennington County

Vermont Fall Foliage Sites in Bennington County

• Woodford State Park . It’s true — we’re attracted to out-of-the-way corners, and this is one of our favorite spots for quiet hiking, kayaking, and swimming. Woodford State Park is tucked away in the mountains and sees very few visitors. A quiet lake surrounded by lush forest is the main attraction, but you’ll also find hiking trails and a quiet campground within the park. On really quiet evenings, we’ve seen moose and otters, and we hear the fishing is pretty good, too.
• Bennington Battle Monument. This is Vermont’s most popular historic site , but we’ve never encountered a full parking lot. Finished in 1891 to commemorate the Battle of Bennington (August 16, 1777), the monument towers 306 feet over the town and is the tallest building in the state. Take a quick elevator ride to the top and enjoy the panoramic views of the town, valleys, and mountains that make this place so special. Don’t forget your camera.
• Lye Brook Falls , Manchester : An easy 2.3-mile hike on a beautiful, forested trail will take you to a lovely waterfall in the Green Mountains. The trail is dog and kid-friendly, and the woods are especially spectacular during fall foliage.
• Mount Equinox Skyline Drive : Drive to the top of Mount Equinox on a 5.2-mile toll road ascending 3,248 feet, where you can enjoy beautiful views of Manchester and the surrounding Green Mountains.
• BATS: The Bennington Area Trail System is a network of trails on the side of Mt. Anthony in Bennington, and you won’t find better views anywhere. Trails range from a walk in the park to steep climbs up the mountain.
• Hildene in Manchester : The former summer home of Robert Todd Lincoln, Hildene is a Georgian Revival mansion built in 1905. You can tour the home and grounds, visit the Dene Farm, or hike the woodland trails.

Also read: The Best Easy Hikes in Southern Vermont

Where to Stay in Bennington County, Vermont for Fall Foliage

Bennington County has two shires, Manchester in the north and Bennington in the south. It’s about a half-hour drive between the two, so you don’t necessarily want to be hopping between them constantly during your visit. There are lots of lodging choices in both towns.

In Bennington, The Four Chimneys Inn is an iconic New England Inn that will perfectly complement your Vermont fall vacation. Each room is beautifully decorated, breakfast is beyond incredible, and you can walk to all the historic attractions in Old Bennington. 

If you want to hang your hat in Manchester, check out the sprawling Kimpton Taconic Hotel, which is dog-friendly and within walking distance of shopping, dining, and hiking trails in Manchester Village.

Explore Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom in the Fall

The Northeast Kingdom is the wildest and most remote part of Vermont. Its uninterrupted tracts of forest make it the perfect habitat for moose, Canada lynx, snowshoe hare, the endangered spruce grouse, and hundreds of songbird species.

Here, the eastern hardwood forest begins transitioning to the boreal forest, which is primarily made up of cold-hardy evergreens. Wild streams cut through the forests, and clear mountain lakes and boggy wetlands dot the landscape. 

If you truly want to get off the beaten path in Vermont this fall, this is the place to be. Sure, there are popular spots with gorgeous views, but much of the landscape is remote, with trails for hiking, lakes for paddling, and a few quirky attractions that will entice you to dig a little deeper into this beautiful corner of Vermont.

Here are a few spectacular things to do in the Northeast Kingdom in the fall:

• Lake Willoughby : Lake Willoughby was carved by glaciers thousands of years ago. Two steep mountains, Mount Hor and Mount Pisgah, rise up on either side of it, giving Lake Willoughby the appearance of a Norwegian fjord. This is a popular spot to visit in the fall, and there are two hiking trails leading to vistas on Mount Hor and Pisgah.
• Bald Mountain Fire Tower Hike : Hike four miles round-trip to the top of Bald Mountain, where you will be treated to gorgeous Northeast Kingdom views.
• Hill Farmstead Brewery: Our favorite Vermont brewery is located in Greensboro Bend, VT. It offers fantastic beers, outdoor seating, and mountain views.
• The Museum of Everyday Life : Treat yourself to a meander around this quirky museum in Glover, Vermont. You never know what you’ll find; just be sure to turn off the light when you’re done.
• Bread & Puppet Museum : Vermont’s original politically active puppet theatre still hosts numerous shows in Glover each summer. In the fall, you can visit the Bread and Puppet Museum, which features a massive accumulation of puppets, masks, paintings, and graphics housed in a 150-year-old barn.

Where to Stay in the Northeast Kingdom

Highland Lodge : This beautiful inn on Caspian Lakes features a collection of guest rooms and private cabins. It is the perfect home base for exploring all of the gorgeous spots in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. The restaurant and bar are on-site, and there are lots of cool special events throughout the season.

Cabin for two in Barton, Vermont : This cozy cottage in Barton is perfect for two people and a dog, with a queen-size bed and a spacious yard with mountain views. This is also an affordable choice for fall travelers.

Get off the Beaten Path in Ludlow, Vermont

Ludlow is one of our favorite little towns in Vermont. Home to Okemo Mountain, a few lovely shops and restaurants, and lots of great hiking trails. Make Ludlow your home base to explore the nearby towns of Weston, Peru, Londonderry, Plymouth Notch, and Killington.

Here are some of our favorite things to from a home base in Ludlow, VT:

• Hike the Healdville Trail to Okemo Mountain : This is a six-mile hike (round trip) and gains about 2,000 feet of elevation, but the 360-degree views from the top of the fire tower make it well worth the effort. You can also drive almost to the top from Okemo Mountain Resort, making the hike less than a quarter-mile.
• Visit Buttermilk Falls : Buttermilk Falls is a series of three small waterfalls along the Branch Brook in Okemo State Forest. The falls are practically roadside but hidden from view down an easy, 0.2-mile trail. This is one of Vermont’s loveliest waterfalls !
• Visit President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site : Located in Plymouth Notch, just a short drive from Ludlow, this is one of the most underappreciated sites in Vermont and a must-visit in the fall. Guided tours are offered daily, and you can see where Calvin Coolidge was born, as well as where he was sworn into office on August 3, 1923, after the death of President Warren G. Harding the previous evening.
• Toast to fall at Long Trail Brewing : This quaint riverside pub and restaurant is the perfect lunch spot, and the view is pretty great, too! In addition to their popular Long Trail Ale, they make a variety of delicious seasonal craft beers that you won’t find in local stores.
• Ride the Scenic Gondola to the Top of Killington Peak : At 4,241 feet, Killington is one of the highest peaks in Vermont. The gondola ride is a quarter mile long, with 360-degree views, a small snack bar, and restrooms at the top. In the fall, the Killington gondola is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm. Round-trip tickets are $30 for adults and $24 for kids.

Read More: A Spectacular Fall Foliage Weekend in Ludlow VT

Where to Stay in Ludlow, Vermont for Fall Foliage

If you’re traveling alone or with a small family, I highly recommend Main and Mountain as your home base. This small hotel is beautifully decorated, and you can choose from different room configurations depending on your needs.

Main and Mountain   has a great little bar onsite, and it’s within walking distance of downtown shopping and restaurants. We paid under $200 a night for a room during the fall foliage season, which is pretty hard to beat.

If you’re looking for more room to spread out, this beautiful  Ludlow village home  is dog-friendly, and it sleeps up to eight people in three bedrooms. It’s also got a great yard and a fire pit for relaxing after a long day of leaf-peeping.

Visit the Lake Champlain Islands in the Fall

Fall is a fabulous time to visit the Lake Champlain Islands!

The population of these northern Vermont islands doubles in the summertime, thanks in part to vacationing New Englanders and a smaller number of tourists from farther afield, who come for the boating and fishing, the beachy atmosphere, and the quiet way of life. 

About the time the kids go back to school, most of the vacationers to the Islands sigh a wistful sigh and return to their lives away from the alluring pull of Lake Champlain. Fall is the season that dreams are made of, provided you aren’t looking for nightlife that involves more than gazing at the stars.

Here are some things you won’t want to miss while visiting Vermont’s Lake Champlain Islands in the fall:

• Alburgh Dunes State Park , Alburgh : This 625-acre day-use park includes one of the largest sandy beaches on Lake Champlain, as well as unique sand dunes that are more common along ocean shorelines. The park is officially open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, but you can still visit in the off-season.
• St. Anne’s Shrine, Isle La Motte: St. Anne’s Shrine is a peaceful, spiritual, and historical attraction that has been developed and maintained for the past 100 years by the Society of Saint Edmund in Vermont’s scenic Champlain Islands. You don’t have to be Catholic to enjoy this special place. 
• Chazy Fossil Reef, Isle La Motte : Lake Champlain was once part of a tropical sea, and the fossilized plants and animals at the Chazy Reef are approximately 480 million years old. The Chazy Reef is just part of a 1,000-mile ridge from the ancient Iapetus Ocean that extends from Newfoundland to Tennessee.
• Snow Farm Vineyard in South Hero : This is the oldest commercial winery in Vermont and the perfect spot to enjoy a tasting with gorgeous views. Be sure to hike to the top of Fox Hill, the highest point on the Islands.

Read More: Spend 3 Magical Days in the Lake Champlain Islands

Lake Champlain Islands Vacation Rentals

Vacation rentals are also great if you’re traveling with a family or a group because there’s usually more room to spread out. The following vacation rentals are available on VRBO:

3-bedroom lakefront home on Isle La Motte  – This year-round home is perfect for up to six people, with no cleaning fee. It includes four kayaks and 100 feet of private lakeshore facing west for fabulous sunsets!

Dog-friendly house on the lake in Alburgh  – This home is less than a mile from Alburgh Dunes State Park, and it features a fireplace, a large deck, and a beach. It’s perfect for up to four people. 

Romantic cottage for two right on the lake in South Hero  – Looking for a special place right on the lake for a couple’s weekend? This beautiful little cottage is on the tip of Kibble Point surrounded by 200 acres of meadows and 320 feet of private lakeshore.

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Tara Schatz is a freelance writer and the founder and editor-in-chief of Vermont Explored and Back Road Ramblers , an American road trip blog. She is also the co-author of the 3rd edition of AMC’s Best Day Hikes in Vermont, released in May 2023, and the author of 100+ Wonderful Ways to Experience Vermont.

Saturday 24th of September 2022

I’m from Hawaii. How can I enjoy in Vermont? Any info will help.

Thursday 11th of August 2022

Which town would you recommend to use as a "base camp" for the last two weeks of Oct. We'll be driving the scenic routes during the day, then park the car and walk to restaurants or pubs in the night.

Tara Schatz

Friday 12th of August 2022

I think you will have the best colors in southern Vermont during the last two weeks of October, so I would look into Bennington, Manchester, or Brattleboro to use as your base camp. All of those will have restaurants and pubs that you can walk to from your lodging.

Sharlene Ansley

Friday 22nd of July 2022

We may be possibly flying in on September 10 leaving 14 th would their be any good fall colors or is that way to early. I really want to make sure we get the most beautiful views because we will probably only get to make the trip once so would that be an okay time or would it be better to plan on a different time

Hi Sharlene - Honestly, I would reschedule for early to mid-October. The foliage will still be pretty green in mid-September, with colors starting to turn in the far north. By early October, the higher elevations and far north will be lovely, and the rest of the state will follow by mid-October. Hope that helps.

Thursday 21st of July 2022

I want to move to Vermont ., buy a large piece of property and build a new traditional home. Do you have contact with a realtor who could contact me. I have been going through different sales, but I like speaking with someone directly. Everything you have been showing and talking about makes me want to buy the whole state of Vermont.

My phone number is 714 536 2743. I live in Huntington Beach, CA. I was originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin and I have lived here for a very long time always remembering the season changes.

Thanh you in advance for any help you can give me.

Corinne Welch

Thursday 23rd of June 2022

When do the restaurants & shops close for the winter? Also, is Vermont experiencing a labor shortage? Thanks!

Sunday 26th of June 2022

It totally depends on the shops and restaurants. Places that are truly seasonal may close after the second week in October, but lots of places are open year-round as Vermont gets a lot of winter tourists. Yes, we are experiencing a labor shortage and it is affecting the travel/tourism industry.

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Take This Gorgeous Fall Foliage Road Trip To See Vermont Like Never Before

Kristin Grimes

Kristin Grimes lives in Vermont, is a freelance writer and busy MOM (Manager of Madness) and WIFE (Washing, Ironing, Feeding, Etc.)

More by this Author

Leaf peeping season beckons tourists and Vermonters alike to drive along the country roads and take in the beauty of fall. There is simply no better place in the world to experience the glorious and vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows that blanket the countryside. The scenic Route 100 Byway is one of the best Vermont fall foliage drives and travels through more than a dozen towns and makes for an easy and direct Vermont fall foliage road trip. Be sure to stop along the way and explore the charming towns on this Vermont fall foliage itinerary and take lots of pictures!

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For a trip map to the best driving route for fall foliage in Vermont, check out our Google map . And if you’re not sure how to pack for the trip, take a look at our essential road trip packing guide to make sure you don’t forget anything critical! What are your favorite things to do in fall in Vermont? If you’re still wondering where to see fall colors in Vermont, check out 10 of the most beautiful fall destinations in Vermont .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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More to Explore

Best fall foliage in vermont.

What is the best time to see peak fall foliage in Vermont?

Vermont’s gorgeous fall colors begin to arrive in the middle of September. They really become vibrant as the month progresses. Most years, Vermont reaches peak fall foliage by the middle of October. However, these times can vary depending on the location and the temperature. 

Where are the best places in Vermont to see fall foliage?

• Jeffersonville

Grafton is a teeny tiny Vermont town, but it’s home to unrivaled beauty. People flock here every season to see the trees turn their vibrant colors. Most of the historic homes have been restored to look like they did back in their prime. You’ll feel like you took a trip back in time when you explore Grafton, Vermont. Another popular place to see fall foliage is Jeffersonville. This place is perfect for those who love the great outdoors. There’s ample opportunity to hike, zipline, and canoe. It’s even more spectacular when explored in the fall. 

What are the best Vermont hikes to take in the fall?

Some of the best Vermont hikes to take in the fall include:

• The Sterling Pond Trail , located in Smugglers Notch, is a beloved hiking destination when the leaves change colors. This breezy trail is only 2.4 miles long, and it’s jam-packed with breathtaking sights.
• Stowe Pinnacle is another incredible place to explore in the fall. A short but steep hike will take you to the top of a towering summit. At the top, you can see miles and miles of red, yellow, and orange leaves.
• Libby’s Look , located in West Bolton, is another wonderful hiking spot. The total hike is only 2.2 miles long, so it’s perfect for when you’re looking for a short and sweet outing. Bring the whole family along and experience Vermont’s unique beauty.

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Explore Vermont

Vermont Fall Foliage Guide

From the best time for peak color to the perfect foliage towns and road trips, our Vermont fall foliage guide will help you plan a great Green Mountain State escape.

By Yankee Magazine

Sep 09 2021

The Vergennes-to-Montpelier road trip includes a stop at the top of Appalachian Gap.

Planning a trip to Vermont this year for some fall color and fun? Our Vermont fall foliage guide is here to help. Learn the best time to see the leaves change color, discover our favorite foliage towns and stunning scenic routes, and read up on a trio of fantastic fall attractions.

Vermont Fall Foliage | Best Time to Visit

While every year is different, Vermont reliably sees its best fall color, moving from north to south, starting in mid-to-late September and extending through mid-October.

Some of our favorite regions in Vermont for enjoying fall color are the Northeast Kingdom during early peak (late September to early October) and Smuggler’s Notch during middle peak (end of September to mid-October). That said, you’ll find fantastic pockets of color in every corner of the state throughout the season.

Plan Your Perfect Summer Adventure: Get The Free Ultimate New England Summer Guide!

Learn more about finding peak color in New England in the Yankee feature “Peak Perfection.”

Best Vermont Fall Foliage Towns

1. manchester, vermont.

In August, this village hosts the annual Southern Vermont Art & Craft Festival , which draws artisans from around the region. Nearby Equinox Mountain, the second-highest peak in southern Vermont, offers unbroken views stretching miles to the surrounding ranges — a painter’s palette of gold and crimson by the first week of October. Don’t miss Northshire Bookstore , a wonderful independent bookshop/café.

2. Middlebury, Vermont

The 16-mile TAM (Trail Around Middlebury) provides an ideal walking route for soaking up the atmosphere of this vibrant college town. Here the fall foliage harmonizes with Otter Creek’s roaring falls in downtown Middlebury, which also has eclectic shopping and restaurants housed in classic brick buildings.

3. Waitsfield, Vermont

Iconic barns and hilly farmlands carpet this narrow valley between Green Mountain ranges and traversed by the Mad River. The town has two covered bridges, including the Great Eddy (aka Big Eddy), the state’s second-oldest covered bridge still in use. Saturday mornings bring residents out for fresh produce, crafts, and music at the Waitsfield Farmers’ Market on the Green.

4. Woodstock, Vermont

Dairy farms and art galleries share equal space in Woodstock, both a sophisticated crossroads and Vermont’s quintessential small town. Billings Farm & Museum features wagon rides, Jersey cows, and food-themed events year-round. Add in the addictive shopping scene on Main Street, and you’ve got all the ingredients for fall. Don’t miss the photo op in front of Middle Covered Bridge.

5. Grafton, Vermont

This village is particularly charming during fall, when towering oaks spread a golden canopy of leaves over town. Many of the buildings on Grafton’s main street are owned by the Windham Foundation, a private organization that has painstakingly restored its properties into a classic vision of small-town life. Don’t miss the Grafton Inn , filled with history and antiques and an award-winning restaurant.

6. Jeffersonville, Vermont

The curving climb through Smugglers’ Notch and alongside the cliffs of Mount Mansfield is one of the best scenic drives in all of New England — even more so when you consider that it leads to the pretty village of Jeffersonville. Here you’ll find views of Smugglers’ Notch Resort and a cute downtown area filled with galleries and antique shops catering to foliage seekers.

7. Montgomery, Vermont

Way up north, not all that far from the Quebec border, Montgomery is a covered-bridge lover’s paradise, with no fewer than seven within a few miles of the village. This majestic yet remote location keeps most leaf peepers far away. Don’t miss  The INN on Trout River, a real-deal country lodging place filled with antiques and a homey vibe. Stop in for a touring map of the bridges.

8. Stowe, Vermont

It’s hardly off the beaten track, but then again, there are ample reasons why the bus tours head to Stowe come fall: its old-world town center, its inviting mix of shops and restaurants, and its walking and hiking trails heading off in all directions.

Discover more great Vermont fall foliage towns with our in-depth guide to the  prettiest fall foliage villages in Vermont.

Best Vermont Fall Foliage Drives

Vergennes to montpelier.

Yankee  has called this fall road trip “a roller-coaster ride through the heart of Vermont.” Starting in the state’s oldest city and finishing up in the state capital (the smallest one in the country), it offers plenty of opportunities to stop, shop, eat, hike, and admire the view.

Stretching 200 miles from Massachusetts to Lake Memphremagog at the Canadian border, Vermont’s Route 100 has been called the best foliage drive in the state — and even the most scenic foliage drive in all of New England. It’s a long stretch, so you may not be able to tackle it all in one day if you want to make a lot of stops (and you should). Highlights include the famous  Vermont Country Store  in Weston, ice cream samples at the  Ben & Jerry’s factory tour  in Waterbury, and just about everything in the mountain resort town of  Stowe .

Learn more about our favorite fall routes in the Yankee feature “Slow Drives Through Fall Color” and get more New England foliage trip ideas in our list of 14 Favorite Fall Drives in New England . 

Best Vermont Fall Attractions

Vermont pumpkin chuckin’ festival | october 1, 2023.

It’s the ultimate game of fall one-upmanship. Held at Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa in Stowe, the Pumpkin Chuckin’ Festival challenges kids and adults to build a better trebuchet: a modern version of the medieval catapult. Spectators watch pumpkins soar … and smash. But for competitors, this is a serious intellectual exercise. Last year’s champ launched a pumpkin 700 feet. Low-cost entry and admission fees support the Lamoille Family Center. And a chili cookoff gives Stowe-area restaurants a chance to compete for glory, too.

The Great Vermont Corn Maze | Danville, VT

The website recommends bringing water, snacks, and lunch … and for good reason. This Danville behemoth covers 24 acres and takes approximately two hours to complete. It also has been dubbed the largest corn maze in New England. After helping thousands of people “get lost” over the years, the maze builders say that healthy adults and those with young children tend to enjoy the maze most. Conversely, they claim that 90 percent of teenagers give up on the maze in less than 20 minutes. Are you up for the challenge?

The Vermont Country Store | Rockingham and Weston, VT

This is perhaps the quintessential general store. Owned by Lyman Orton and his sons — seventh- and eighth-generation Vermonters and fourth- and fifth-generation storekeepers — this shop will take you back in time with its rustic red facade and eclectic merchandise. They call themselves “the purveyors of the practical and hard-to-find” and for good reason. As you wander the aisles, you’ll uncover products that you had forgotten — or never even knew — existed.

Looking for more fall fun? Discover our picks for the best five pumpkin festivals in New England , the best corn mazes in New England , and the best five Vermont country stores .

What Vermont fall foliage picks would you add to the list? Let us know!

This post was first published in 2019 and has been updated. 

More Foliage Guides: New Hampshire Fall Foliage Guide Maine Fall Foliage Guide

See more: guide to new england fall foliage train tours best apple orchards in new england 10 places to visit in new england in fall.

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Fall in Vermont: Best Places for a Foliage Road Trip

By Helene Sula

When it comes to Fall, there’s no place quite like Vermont. The striking leaves, the cool, crisp air, the maple syrup, apple picking, pumpkins, corn mazes, covered bridges… it’s all here! This guide with show you the 10 best places for Fall in Vermont. I'll also share a road trip guide to seeing the best towns!

The Green Mountain State is beautiful in every season, but Vermont in the fall is like a fairy-tale come to life. This guide to Fall in Vermont covers not only where to go, but when to see the changing leaves, and where to stay along the way.

Going to Vermont is an easy choice because you're guaranteed a beautiful view of leaves, festivals, and delicious food. So let's take the scenic route to discover the best places for foliage in this quintessential New England state. The Green Mountains, running the length of the state from Canada to Connecticut, are full of scenic drives for a kaleidoscope mix of reds and oranges and yellows.

Whether you've only got a few days, or a full week, I've mapped out the best opportunities for leaf peeping and the cutest towns you have to stop in! If you're looking for a full itinerary in New England, check out my guide!

When is the best time to see the leaves in Vermont?

Best vermont towns to visit in the fall, free itinerary for new england, st. johnsbury, best things to do in vermont in fall, perfect vermont road trip itinerary.

Peak foliage season truly changes from year to year. But the best time is typically the end of September through mid-October for most of New England.

This “ leaf forecaster ” map is helpful for planning your trip and picking your dates. But know it can change from year to year!

I suggest having a car to drive around. This will ensure you're able to quickly get up and go, and stop at places where you find beauty! There are some really beautiful drives, and truthfully, this is the best way to see the leaves.

Fun fact: Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire combined have a smaller population than Dallas Fort Worth (where I'm from!). So while New England might seem overwhelming, distances can be quite short! This guide will ensure you see the best of the best in Vermont.

Though the color and vibrancy differ each year based on weather, you can typicallyalways find beauty in Vermont in the Fall.

Which Airport To Fly in to Vermont?

Connecticut, Albany, NY and Boston, MA are all a short drive from Vermont. There's also an airport in Burlington, Vermont.

Boston is the airport we typically use to fly in to Vermont since it's non-stop and has the best prices. New England is fairly small, so a couple hours drive will take you easily from one state to another.

READ MORE: New England Fall Guide: Road Trip and Itinerary

What Is The Best Time To Go?

It's best in late September through mid October for most of New England (depending on weather). I suggest having a car so you can stop and go as you please! With so many small towns and great stops along the way, a car is key to seeing everything in Vermont.

What To Pack?

Layering is key! Bring clothes for changing weather, a warm coat, gloves and hat (depending on the temperature), sunscreen in September-October when it's still light out but chilly! I also suggest hiking boots since there are so many wonderful hikes. I like these boots , see my full guide on what to pack for hiking here .

Tour Vermont’s beautiful fall foliage and get a glimpse of the best things to do in the state! Here are 10 places to visit in Vermont in Fall. These must-see places are glorious all year round, but come Autumn when the leaves are striking shades of red, oranges, and yellows you will truly be mesmerized.

Here's a map of all the places mentioned so you can find them along your route!

Located in southwestern Vermont, Manchester is an ideal place for leaf peeping. The leaves fall like a blanket across the surprisingly bright green grass waving goodbye to the season.

Nearby is Lincoln's Hildene home where you can tour the mansion and gardens, as well as see Lincoln's last letter to his wife and his signature stovepipe hat.

Manchester is also home to one of Vermont’s most popular apple orchards – Manchester Orchard .

Other things I recommend in Manchester are:

• The original Orvis store
• American Museum of Fly Fishing
• Northshire Bookstore

Make time to stop on your route at the Dutton Farm Stand – it's lovely and perfect for pumpkins!

A great place to stay is the gorgeous Equinox resort .

Nestled in the northern part of Vermont, Stowe has been a destination for leaf peeping since 1835! The hills ARE alive and you'll feel like you stepped into the sound of music in Stowe.

Start your day at Cold Hollow Cider for fresh apple cider donuts (highly recommend!) and a great tour of the production facility. Nearby is also Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream! This is technically in Waterbury , but the towns are super close.

Then, head to Smuggler's Notch for a beautiful drive and epic views along the way. I love how the road juxtaposes with the bright leaves. It's a photographer's paradise.

After Smuggler's Notch, head to Mount Mansfield – the highest peak in Vermont and home of Camel's Hump. You'll enjoy stunning views from this mountain as well!

And don't forget about Stowe Mountain Resort for some more hiking, skiing (in winter!).

Walk around the adorable town, grab a coffee, and head up to Tangerine & Olive gift shop to get a view below of the town and the pristine church. It feels like a Folger's coffee commercial! Lastly, check out Percy's Corn Maze – great for any age!

Cap off your visit to Stowe at The Trapp Family Lodge ! After the Von Trapp family (from The Sound of Music) fled Austria during World War II, they sought out a place with rolling hills and pretty towns that reminded them of their homeland. Though it was not hands-down perfect match, Vermont is one of those places and I agree!

Woodstock is loved for its New England village charm anchored by the town's central square, The Green, and a collection of homes that have been lovingly restored. The Woodstock Inn is absolutely stunning and worth it to walk around- whether you're staying there or not!

Of course, no visit to Vermont is complete without visiting the Insta-famous Sleepy Hollow Farm (or Elm Grove). UPDATE: Closed, do not go!

Check out the working dairy farm: Billings – for milk and ice cream! The Taftsville Covered Bridge , the oldest in Vermont at over 220 years old, and one of the oldest covered bridges in the state is worth the stop.

If Woodstock Inn is sold out or too pricey, you can also stay at the gorgeous 506 On the River Inn . We camped in our RV and drove on to Calvin Coolidge Forest.

If you want to feel like Gilmore Girls come to life, head to the small town of Weston, Vermont. Weston is also home to the Weston Playhouse, one of Vermont's most popular dinner theaters!

The town has many beautiful trails that lead you right into the Green Mountain National Forest, perfect for hiking or camping.

Weston feels like stepping back in time with a slower pace and time to enjoy a steaming cup of coffee and enjoy the views. Make sure to step in the Vermont Country Store while you're there. It has a classic country feel with handmade quilts, old fashioned candy, and other goodies that delight all ages.

This picture perfect town lies in the Mad River Valley which sits between the Green Mountain Range and the Northfield mountains.

The town of Waitsfield is the perfect place to grab a cup of coffee before you start your leaf peeping venture!

Waistfield is a quintessential Vermont town and should definitely be on your list for your Vermont road trip.

I recommend the Waitsfield Creamery for ice cream and baked goods. It's a must-stop on your way through town!

This is a unique stop in Vermont because it's not just known for it's changing leaves but for it's “Dog Mountain.” In 1995, artist Stephen Huneck and his wife bought 150 acres. Huneck fell down a flight of stairs and was left in a coma. When he awoke he spoke of a vision of making woodcuts and carvings of his dog Sally.

After a near-death experience, he built Dog Chapel to honor Sally and dogs everywhere. Here, you can explore his works and admire the lovely trees.

This is the capital of Vermont and the least populous capital city in the USA. But they certainly didn't skimp on their state house, it has a lovely gold-domed roof. There are plenty of places to eat and sip, but my favorites were not in town, rather nearby.

First up is the picturesque Burtt’s Apple Orchard . Right on the hillside, visitors can pick apples and drink apple cider. The setting sun was fantastic!

But my favorite spot here is Bragg Maple Farm . Did you know Vermont is the world's largest producer of maple syrup?! Try a maple creamy and indulge in maple candies. If you're RVing you can stay here over night.

The Inn at Montpelier is a beautiful traditional stay in the capital city. For a more luxurious experience, check out Capital Plaza Hotel . Beautiful spacious rooms with an elevated setting.

One of the 10 best places to visit in Vermont for fall foliage is Burlington, affectionately known as the Queen City (not just Cincinnati, Ohio!). This is the biggest city in Vermont and has a lot of great things to do.

I recommend the University Museum, which is open year round and offers free admission! There are interactive exhibits inside the museum that share about Vermont wildlife, archeology, local history and more.

But the best part of Burlington is Lake Champlain. From Burlington take a ferry to be on and around this beautiful body of water! I recommend renting bikes from Tom's Bikes in town for a day exploring different parts of the waterfront, beach-side parks with areas for fishing or just taking in views.

Burlington has plenty of dining options, one of the best is the North End Café. They have a warm and cozy feel with delicious dishes to satisfy any appetite.

Explore Church Street Marketplace and join the 1.5 million visitors that come here annually to shop, eat, and play

Middlebury has stately brick and stone buildings along the gently sloping town green, cascading waterfalls of Otter Creek, and loads of shopping opportunities for autumn foliage.

There's a beautiful downtown and historic college so it's buzzing with shops and things to do.

Middlebury is also famous as an arts community with opportunities for theater, concerts, art galleries and more.

If you're looking for an adorable town in the south of Vermont, Bennington is one of the best. It's part of “The Shires” of Vermont Byway so it's easy to access on a drive. There are many small shops and it's a beautiful spot for the fall.

The Bennington Battle Monument is on top of Mount Anthony, and you can take an elevator up for panoramic views of 3 different states. It was built in 1879 as a memorial to Revolutionary War soldiers who died during the American Revolution.

The best part about road tripping Vermont in the Fall is that you can't go wrong! Get lost, take a back street, and just explore this beautiful state.

My favorite activities are apple picking, corn mazes, hiking and pumpkin patches. Luckily, there's no shortage of this in Vermont!

Apple picking, maple houses, hiking, pumpkin patch , scarecrow carving, pumpkin patch, festivals

Your Vermont bucket list should include:

• Apple Picking – I like going to Burtt's Apple Orchard near Montpelier
• Stopping at a maple house – I love the Bragg Maple House near Montpelier
• Getting lost in a Corn Maze – I love Percy Field near Stowe
• Going to a Pumpkin Patch – The Dutton Farm Stand is incredible! Near Manchester
• Eat HOT and fresh apple cider donuts – There's no better place than Cold Hollow Cider near Stowe

With only 157 miles in length, this is one of the few states where you can easily drive around the whole thing in a short time. Vermont features an abundance of mountain views and winding roads that are perfect for a picture. And, festivals! There are plenty of wonderful fall festivals in Vermont. Check out the options here !

Your route for your road trip in Vermont will depend on your timing. If you are earlier in the season for leaves, middle September, I recommend that you start north and head south. If you're coming in early October, you might want to start south and head north.

If you're here to check out the leaves, make sure to check out this great resource to see how the foliage progresses in Vermont . This is a good baseline to plan your trip.

I also like to keep my eye out on the foliage forecaster for Vermont to check on leave conditions.

Vermont's 10 scenic byways are some of the best ways to enjoy the foliage. From winding roads through charming downtowns, to views along mountain ranges, find your next excursion along a byway route in Vermont. Since Vermont is small, most of these routes can be completed in a few days.

Here's what I recommend for the best scenic routes in Vermont:

• Route 100 – Meandering from Wilmington, Dover, Plymoth, Waterbury, and Stowe, this is one of the best routes for leaf peepers. You'll find the Mad River Scenic Byway part of this route.
• Green Mountain Byway – From Waterbury and Stowe you'll venture through the Green Mountains for stunning views. This is also part of Route 100!
• Route 7 – This route follows along the western side of the state and dips into Massachusetts and Connecticut (which I recommend doing if you have more time!) Stop in Bennington, Manchester, Middlebury, and Burlington.
• Route 30 – There's a lot to see in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont! Head from St Johnsbury south to Montpelier. The Northeast Kingdom recently ranked as the best Geotourism destination in the United States, and among the top 10 in the world. You'll head nearly to Canada, then make your way down to St. Johnsbury.

My favorite route is my own! There's so much to see, so picking and choosing a mixture of both is my favorite. You can break this up however you like and you certainly don't have to start in St. Johnsbury! You can also start south and head north.

Want to see even more in New England?! Check out my guide to all of New England and plan your perfect trip !

Other Posts you might like:

• New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary
• Best Places for Fall in New Hampshire
• Guide to Salem, MA
• Hocus Pocus Filming Locations
• Connecticut Fall Foliage Guide
• Best Places for Europe in the Fall
• Fall Instagram Captions and Photo Ideas

MEET THE AUTHOR

Helene Sula

I believe that one trip can change your life. It did for me. I'm a self proclaimed home body that quit her job, moved abroad, and more often than not, lives out of a carry-on bag. If I'm not traveling, I'm most likely re-reading Harry Potter or watching "Midnight in Paris" while snuggling my dogs. I'm a digital marketing expert who turned my love of travel into a full-time career. And I help others do it too.

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A Three-Day Itinerary to the Best of Fall in Vermont

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For a long-weekend getaway from New York City this fall, we rented a car and drove north to catch some of the best leaf-peeping on the east coast. In early and mid-October, Vermont is the autumn version of a winter wonderland: foliage so bright you can’t really capture it in photos, perfectly crisp weather, picturesque towns set into the rolling mountains.

The further north you drive, the more the scenery starts to look like Switzerland or Austria – so it’s little wonder that this is where the von Trapp family chose to settle after the nuns helped them escape Salzburg*.

We spent most of our drive along Route 100, but the landscape and fall colors are so fantastic that even the freeway has some postcard-worthy views. Here’s my plan for a perfect three-day getaway from the city.

*Okay, okay, that’s not exactly how it happened .

Warren and Stowe

Grab your suitcase and coffee and start driving north. Might I recommend this fall playlist ? Once you cross into Vermont, plan for plenty of stops along the way – picture-perfect views, apple donuts, and maple creemees (a local maple syrup softserve) are all worthy detours. The Weston Vermont Country Store and Amherst Lake were two of my favorite spontaneous stops.

Plan a lunch break in the tiny town of Warren. Get a sandwich from the general store, but don’t leave without browsing around and grabbing a jar of this spicy mustard (my favorite discovery of the trip). Find a table outside or a spot next to the waterfall to eat lunch, then stroll around town before getting back on the road.

Follow Route 100 all the way up to Stowe, Vermont. We settled in at Edson Hill , where we had dinner in the Dining Room restaurant . If you’re there, ask for a corner bench table or a spot next to the fireplace for ultimate coziness. And don’t miss the fire pit on the patio!

this post contains affiliate links that contribute towards my oat-milk cappuccino fund at no extra cost to you. thank you!

Smuggler’s Notch, Cider Slushies, and Queechee

I know it’s the weekend and a vacation, but I promise that (1) this is worth the wakeup call, and (2) you can sleep in tomorrow. Before breakfast, pull on a hat and a sweater and make the short drive up to Smuggler’s Notch .

Give yourself about an hour to enjoy the scenery before all the other travelers, hikers, and their many cars start to clutter the zig-zagging road. Afterwards, take your time warming up over a long breakfast back at the hotel.

Head back out and make your way up to the mountaintop Trapp Family Lodge . The classic Austrian-style lodge has wonderful views and gardens – we spotted more than one family photo session happening here. When you’re ready for lunch, drive down into Stowe and stop in at the general store.

Next, take the scenic route to Burtt’s Apple Orchard . The same road trip rules apply as yesterday: brake for maple creemees, wonderful views, any roadside maple syrup stands. The orchard has pumpkins and apples of course, but what you’re really here for are the exceptionally good apple donuts and the apple cider slushies. Buy more donuts than you think you need, and strongly consider never drinking hot cider again.

After you’ve walked through the orchard and solved the corn maze, it’s time for the last stop of the day: Queechee. Plan to arrive before sunset to see the falls and the covered bridge that spans the river before your dinner reservation at Simon Pearce . If you find yourself sans reservation, put your name on the list for a table in the Bar and explore the glasswork studio while you wait. Either way, the Vermont cheddar soup is a perfect way to end the day.

Note: To save yourself some driving, you could spend the night in Queechee or nearby Woodstock. However, during the peak fall season, many hotels have a two-night minimum stay.

Woodstock and Leaf-Peeping

Give yourself a slow morning today; sleep in and head down to breakfast, then come back to pack up your things and check out of your room.

Back on the road again, drive towards Woodstock, Vermont. This pretty town feels like the real-life version of Stars Hollow – all it’s missing is a gazebo! You can park just about anywhere, then wander through the town square and side streets to spot photo-worthy fall decorations and cute shops to explore. Make sure to see the covered bridge and the famously chic Woodstock Inn . Have a leisurely lunch at the Inn or stop at the general store and make a picnic out of it.

By now you’re an experienced leaf-peeper, and you know that the best part of this road trip is simply driving through the autumn wonderland and taking it all in, stopping whenever you like. On the drive back south to the city, I must insist that you stop for a maple creemee if you haven’t had one yet. When the sun has set and you’ve still got an hour or two to go, remember your extra donuts from Burtt’s and thank your past self for being so thoughtful.

What to Wear for Fall in Vermont

‘star’ the map below to access it from the google maps app on your phone!

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12 Best Places to Capture the Fall Foliage

Take in the beauty of the autumn leaves.

Autumn is calling , and it’s time to answer with a road trip to admire some of the country’s best fall foliage. From the fiery reds of Vermont’s Green Mountains to the golden hues of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the United States’s fall landscapes are nothing short of spectacular. Whether you’re a leaf peeper on the hunt for the perfect photo-op, planning an affordable family vacation , or just looking to escape into the great outdoors , these states offer everything you need for a picturesque autumn adventure.

Imagine cruising down scenic byways with the trees alight in brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows, hiking trails that lead to breathtaking overlooks, and cozying up in charming small towns for seasonal treats and local shopping. Your ultimate fall foliage road trip starts here—so grab your camera, pack your favorite cozy sweater, and let’s explore the best spots across the country to experience autumn in all its glory. Up next: A tree house getaway to surround yourself in the colorful woods.

Before You Go On Your Trip…

Remember to pack a good camera! Phones nowadays have decent lenses built-in, but nothing—and we mean nothing —beats a fall landscape caught on a digital or film camera. There are a ton of great affordable camera options, too. And what better way to capture the memories of a family road trip than with a framed photo of the fam walking through the autumn leaves?

Canon PowerShot S90 Digital Camera

Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera

Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5 Digital Camera

Panasonic Lumix G100D Mirrorless Camera

In Vermont, the Green Mountains come alive each fall with a breathtaking display of red, orange, and yellow hues. Scenic Route 100 winds through picturesque towns like Stowe and Woodstock, where you can take in fantastic views of the changing leaves. Between the crisp autumn air, charming covered bridges, and cozy inns, you’ll get the full fall experience. Be sure to explore the local farmers’ markets and enjoy a classic Vermont apple cider donut, too!

New Hampshire

In New Hampshire, the White Mountains transform into a colorful canvas each fall, with the Kancamagus Highway offering some of the most spectacular views. As you drive this 34.5-mile stretch, you’ll enjoy views of vibrant forests and glistening rivers, all decked out in your favorite fall colors. Explore the quaint village of Jackson or hike the trails at Franconia Notch State Park for an unforgettable autumn adventure.

Maine’s fall scenery offers a unique blend of rugged coastline and brilliant foliage. Acadia National Park is a must-visit, with scenic drives like the Park Loop Road showcasing stunning contrasts of colorful leaves against the deep blue Atlantic Ocean. Drive the Park Loop Road for panoramic views or explore the charming coastal town of Bar Harbor, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and visit local shops as you take in all the autumnal beauty.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts dazzles in the fall, particularly in the Berkshires, where the rolling hills are blanketed with vibrant autumn leaves. Enjoy a leisurely drive along one of the many scenic routes or visit historic inns and art galleries as you wander through the charming towns of Lenox and Stockbridge. After soaking in the seasonal charm, hike through peaceful forests or visit local farms to sample fresh cider and homemade pies.

The Adirondack Mountains in New York are a prime spot for fall foliage lovers. With miles of hiking trails and scenic byways, you can experience the brilliant reds, oranges, and golds of autumn up close. Whether you’re hiking, paddling, or just relaxing in a cozy cabin, the Adirondacks offer a perfect setting to soak in the season’s beauty.

Pennsylvania

The Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania are famous for their vibrant fall colors. With a mix of maples, oaks, and birches, the region offers a beautiful backdrop for scenic drives and outdoor adventures. Explore the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area for panoramic views and visit charming local towns like Jim Thorpe and Stroudsburg, where you can explore quaint shops and enjoy seasonal festivities.

West Virginia

West Virginia’s New River Gorge is always a sight to see, but in the fall, it truly shines. Whether you hike through the vibrant foliage, dive into adventures like white-water rafting, or take in stunning views from overlooks like Grandview and Endless Wall, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking fall colors.

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a hidden gem for leaf peepers and nature lovers alike. The Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore show off a gorgeous mix of fall colors as well as the Great Lakes. Explore the trails or enjoy a scenic drive to fully experience the area’s stunning autumn landscapes.

With its deep valleys and striking rock formations, Ohio’s Hocking Hills region is a veritable fall wonderland. The area’s natural beauty is perfect for hiking and exploring, with local farms offering fresh cider and seasonal treats. Trails like Old Man’s Cave and Ash Cave offer beautiful views of the colorful landscape and cascading waterfalls. And there are plenty of picturesque spots to stop for a picnic.

Brown County State Park in Indiana is renowned for its stunning fall foliage. The park’s scenic overlooks offer gorgeous views of rolling hills covered in vibrant autumn colors. And with plenty of trails and outdoor activities to try, it’s an ideal spot for a fall weekend getaway. After a day of hiking or exploring, relax in the park’s rustic lodges or visit nearby towns for local craft shops and seasonal treats.

Kentucky’s Red River Gorge is a standout for fall colors, with dramatic rock formations and wide forests showcasing the vibrant foliage. Drive the Natural Bridge Scenic Byway for incredible views or hike the trails to see the fall scenery up close.

Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a fall treasure, with vibrant autumn colors spread across its diverse landscapes. Take a scenic drive on the Cades Cove Loop or hike up to Clingmans Dome for breathtaking views. With numerous trails and abundant wildlife in the area, you’ll find endless opportunities to explore and enjoy the fall season.

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This Is the No. 1 Fall Foliage Destination in the U.S. for 2024

Leaf peepers will be traveling to Pennsylvania’s Bucks County, according to Priceline.

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While the dog days of summer seem like the opposite of autumnal bliss, travelers are already looking ahead to the next season and planning fall foliage getaways in the U.S. — and this year’s top destinations are spread across the country, according to Priceline .

Search volume data from the online travel company found that Bucks County, Pennsylvania , is the most popular getaway for leaf peepers. Located less than an hour’s drive from Philadelphia and about 90 minutes from New York City, the region is known for its 12 historic covered bridges from the 19th century, which make a perfect backdrop to the hues of the falling leaves.

Other unique ways to take in the county’s colors are through hot air balloons with Lancaster Balloon Rides above the Delaware River and on New Hope Railroad ’s fall foliage rides on a 1920s vintage train. Priceline data shows that round-trip flights average $309 per person to Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and that car rentals average $84 a day.

The runner-up spot was across the country in North Lake Tahoe, which sits in both California and Nevada. Here, visitors can hike Tahoe National Forest ’s Donner Pass, bike at Northstar California ski resort , or go ziplining through the colorful canopies . The closest airport is Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) in Reno, Nevada, with flights averaging $416 and rental cars for $95.  

Back on the East Coast, Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, came in third, most notably for its White Mountains views. The town at the base of the northeast’s highest peak was once a favorite of presidents and celebrities . Flights to the nearest airport — Portland International Jetport (PWM) in Portland, Maine, about two hours away — average $349, and rental cars cost about $95.

Rounding out the list is Albany, New York, in fourth place, where popular autumn activities include hiking Washington Park or Thacher State Park and Hudson River cruises. Stowe, Vermont, took the sixth place spot and has been dubbed New England’s color capital this time of year. Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park snagged seventh place for its more than 500 miles of hiking trails and 75 overlooks on its Skyline Drive .

Also on the list were two scenic byways. In fifth place is Idaho’s Payette River Scenic Byway, where drives and bike rides can be accompanied by dips in natural hot springs. Oregon’s 34-mile McKenzie River Scenic Byway took the eighth place with views of Willamette Valley, Cascade Mountain, and McKenzie River.

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• 8 Most Charming Vermont Towns for 2024

Vermont is the smallest state by population. Its scenic mountains and valleys draw visitors from all over the world to relish its captivating fall foliage. Also, it's the state that birthed the delicious Ben & Jerry's ice cream. Among the many wonderful towns to visit here, Burlington, Woodstock, and Newport are all standout gems, given their outdoor recreational activities and bustling downtowns. However, they are just one of many charming towns, as we will see. This article will highlight 2024's eight most charming towns in the Green Mountain State.

Shelburne offers the perfect fusion of history and outdoor adventures. Begin your journey at the one-of-a-kind Shelburne Museum, where you can explore over 150,000 treasures in 39 buildings. The 45-acre museum displays collections and artifacts from American folk art, impressionist paintings, decorative arts, maritime-related items, and more. Following this, immerse yourself in the scenic Shelburne Bay Park hiking area, which offers a recreation path for brisk walks, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing and provides top-notch views of Lake Champlain. Afterward, head over to Shelburne Farms, where you can experience immersive guided tours, including the Shelburne Farm Tours, House & Garden Tour at the Shelburne Farms Inn, and the Summer Forest Bathing: shinrin-yoku. The latter is ideal for those seeking a tranquil while enjoying a sensory-guided walk under the protection of the forest canopy.

Woodstock is home to the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, which is widely recognized as the progenitor and origin of the conservation movement. See the very same sugar maple trees that inspired the movement and trek the 20 miles of hiking trails. What's more, the park is home to historic scenery, beautiful stone walls, and covered bridges. After your hike, explore the heart of Woodstock in the downtown area, where you can tour through pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and access a wide range of quaint shops and cafes offering an impressive selection of boutique items and hidden gems. Among many locally-owned businesses, The Yankee Bookshop is a notable standout that was awarded the month of August's featured business of the month; it remains Vermont's longest-running bookstore, having opened its doors 89 years ago, back in 1935, and offers a wide array of non-fiction and fiction books for readers of all ages. Finally, march up to Mount Tom Peak, where you will be rewarded with a calendar-worthy view of Woodstock from atop.

Middlebury is home to the esteemed Middlebury College, one of America's oldest liberal arts colleges. The 223-year-old institution has immersed itself as an integral part of the town's community, as reflected by Middlebury's remarkably low median age of just 22.8 years. To get a feel of the scene, grab a cup of joe at one of many available cafes, including Little Seed Coffee Roasters located near Otter Creek river. And just a short three-minute walk away lies the Henry Sheldon Museum, where you can delve into their special exhibitions that include the likes of Patent Pending, Model Boats, and more. Finally, uncover the town's prized gem at Otter View Park, where you can march on a 0.6-mile loop trail with a boardwalk and observe critical habitat areas that house birds and other wildlife. The park is ideal for hikers of all skill levels, including those who prefer leisurely walks amid the lush greenery.

This town holds the title of being the smallest capital state in the US. But don't let its small size fool you! There are several things to love about Montpelier . For starters, it's rare to find a chain store here—which helped Montpelier land a spot on USA Today's 2021 list of best small towns for shopping. Additionally, it's home to the acclaimed Vermont Historical Society Museum, which dates back to 1838. In addition to the usual exhibition museum feature, this one also has a library that offers access to 50,000+ cataloged books. If you're feeling extra adventurous, unplug and recharge at the C.C. Putnam State Forest, located just 24.1 miles away from town. With over 13,633 acres to explore, C.C. Putnam offers outdoor lovers all the space they need to hike, cross-country ski, and observe wildlife. Moreover, this park is home to the famous Moss Glen Falls Natural Area, a scenic waterfall with a total plunge exceeding 100 feet—by far making it Vermont's tallest.

Stowe is renowned for its world-class ski resorts and outdoor recreational opportunities. Launch your journey at the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum, a 36-year-old exhibit center that boasts a wide range of galleries and collections related to snowboarding, Nordic skiing, and alpine skiing. To get a real feel of the sport, though, head to Stowe Mountain Resort, where you can test your skills on 116 ski trails, with the highest elevation topping 3,625 feet. If you don't know how to ski, don't fret—there are beginner and intermediate terrains to practice and develop your skills. Beyond the exhilarating slopes, Stowe Mountain features several amenities to wander, including the cozy Cliff House Restaurant, Ice Skating at Spruce Peak Village, and the awe-inspiring Gondola SkyRide, which provides panoramic mountain views to remember for a lifetime.

If you're curious why Vermont is known as the Green Mountain State, look to Manchester to find the answer. The epic peaks here extend as far as the eye can see. Start your trip by exploring the Manchester Riverwalk, a charming and brief path that follows the stream and millpond, offering a peaceful escape. It's well-kept and maintained, but more importantly, free of disturbances, providing a pleasant getaway from noises and busy crowds. After that, trek the North Meadow Farm, a small family-owned business where you can witness scenic views of the towering mountains nearby, in addition to meeting all the farm's friendly animals, including cows, rabbits, goats, and fowls. Furthermore, take advantage of their esteemed store before you leave to feast on the freshest eggs, honey, and cheese curds available anywhere. Afterward, head over to Lye Brook Falls, a prominent trail in the Green Mountain National Forest, where you can experience Vermont's untamed landscape, laden with lush trees, rivers, ponds, and more. The terrain is rocky, so it's highly recommended to bring proper gear and hiking boots.

Despite being Vermont's largest city, Burlington boasts a population of just 43,000 residents, giving it a charming small-town vibe. The city sits on the shores of Lake Champlain and offers stunning views laden with waterfront parks, beaches, and relaxing boat cruises. Kickstart your journey on Church Street, a pedestrian-only avenue with over 60+ retail shops and 30+ restaurants, art galleries, street performers, and cart vendors. And just a short 8.1 miles away, Shelburne Museum is home to limited exhibitions and permanent displays, including the All Aboard exhibit from June 22 to October 20 this year, where visitors can learn about America's fascinating train history amid the era of industrialization era from 1840 to 1955. There are over 100,000 collections in this museum to explore, ranging from fine arts to textiles, folk art, and more.

Newport sits on the shores of the picturesque Lake Memphremagog, a glacier lake extending into the Canadian province of Quebec . There are numerous ways to enjoy this lake, with swimming, kayaking, sailboating, and ice fishing in colder months topping the list. To stay the night, Prouty Beach offers 36 acres of land to camp out on with outstanding views of the waters. Next, explore the historic Downtown Newport, where you can shop at local stores offering premium outlets that sell attire, art, jewelry, and many other retail stores. And since Vermont flaunts the best outdoor spots, conclude your trip with the famous Newport Bike Path and Beebe Spur to North Derby, an easy path spanning several miles. The route takes around two hours and thirty minutes to complete and is also ideal for birdwatching and a fun way to unwind amid the breathtaking natural landscape.

In summary, these eight charming towns offer a wide range of experiences that cater to visitors of all stripes. The scenic mountain views, historic landmarks, and vibrant downtown areas all make the Green Mountain State the beautiful state so many flock to see. Whether you aim to explore the serene woodlands of Woodstock or the charming small-town vibe of Burlington, each city will leave you with a memorable moment to cherish and reflect on in its own special way.

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8 Fall Foliage Hikes To Take In Colorado This Year

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• The Western U.S., like Colorado, offers overlooked fall foliage sightseeing opportunities.
• The Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail in Colorado offers a beautiful, easy 1.9-mile hike for peak autumn colors.
• Unique Colorado landscapes like Black Canyon of the Gunnison provide vibrant fall colors for leaf-peepers.

Autumn in the United States brings prime leaf-peeping season for millions of travelers, and it's no surprise why. The incredible displays of fall colors in some of the country's most scenic areas provide magnificent views that can't be found at any other time of year. From late September to Halloween, tourists across the country pack up their bags and head off to major fall foliage destinations to catch the peak of the country's natural beauty.

Fall foliage trips are quite popular across the Eastern United States. Much of New England, Upstate New York, and the Blue Ridge Mountains, a region home to stunning autumn hikes , are among the most popular tourist destinations come autumn. However, the Western United States also has amazing fall foliage sightseeing opportunities that may get overlooked.

In particular, Colorado is one of the country's best states for witnessing amazing autumnal displays among breathtaking backdrops. Visitors can see the state's already-gorgeous alpine forests transform into unforgettable shades of gold framed against the backdrop of snowcapped Rocky Mountains.

While virtually any hiking trail in Colorado is a great scenic stop come autumn, these trails in particular should not be passed over by anyone who wants to experience Colorado's fall foliage at its best.

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8 Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail

Maroon bells snowmass wilderness.

The Maroon Bells are arguably the single most iconic sight in all of Colorado. Located near the famous mountain resort town of Aspen, which is popular in winter , the Maroon Bells are known for their photogenic mountain peaks arrayed in a gorgeous pattern against the surrounding mountain lakes and alpine forests.

Anyone who wants to get the best views of the Maroon Bells in all of their glory can head out to the Maroon Bells Scenic Area , which is part of the larger Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness.

Obviously, the Maroon Bells Scenic Area is stunningly beautiful at all times of year. But when autumn rolls around, the area's amazing aesthetics really comes out. The alpine forests surrounding the mountains erupt in magnificent displays of yellow, orange, and deep red, all framing the picture-perfect mountain peaks towering above them.

For the best scenic tour of the Maroon Bells's autumn colors, hikers should head out to the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop Trail . At only 1.9 miles and with an "easy" difficulty rating on AllTrails.com, this gorgeous trail is quite accessible to all travelers who want to experience the best of Colorado in autumn.

The trail follows a convenient loop path from the parking area, past the stunning Maroon Lake, and finally past the area's famous mountain scenery, before looping back to the parking area. During the area's peak fall foliage between late September and early October, hikers will also get more amazing shots of fall colors than they can fit into their Instagram reels!

With its amazing views and easy access, it should come as no surprise that the Maroon Bells Scenic Loop trail is the most photographed in all of Colorado!

7 Emerald Lake Trail

Rocky mountain national park.

Is Rocky Mountain National Park's Emerald Lake Trail the best hiking trail in Colorado? While opinions certainly vary, this 3.2-mile mountain trail is Colorado's highest-rated trail on AllTrails . Even if you think otherwise, you can't trek this amazing route through Colorado's Front Range and not see why countless past visitors rate this trail so highly and consider it one of the most scenic fall hikes in the Colorado Rockies .

Beginning at an accessible parking area, the trail follows a well-marked out-and-back route through the park's enchanting Tyndall Gorge area. While every spot in Rocky Mountain National Park has its own amazing beauty, the Tyndall Gorge is particularly famous for its breathtaking vistas across the park's towering mountain peaks and stunning valleys beyond.

Eventually, the trail takes hikers past the aptly-named Dream Lake, and finally to its namesake, Emerald Lake, before terminating. Both of these lakes are two of the most stunning mountain lakes in all of Colorado, and hikers can get all the Instagram-worthy shots they want from the trail's accessible scenic spots!

Autumn is a particularly attractive time to head out on the Emerald Lake Trail. At the park's high altitudes, fall colors begin to appear on the surrounding trees as early as Late September. At their peak, the trail's fall foliage erupts in amazing displays of yellows and oranges that make a particularly scenic complement to the trail's gorgeous mountain scenery.

6 Flash Of Gold Trail

Medicine bow-routt national forest.

Colorado has many, many trails that are great destinations to see the state's amazing Fall colors. But only one trail takes its name from its incredible fall foliage. The appropriately named Flash of Gold Trail is a relatively lengthy 10-5-mile out-and-back route through the beautiful Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest near Western Colorado's Steamboat Springs.

Beginning in early October, the forest's deciduous trees turn from deep green to a mesmerizing flood of bright gold colors that cover the vast mountain landscape on all sides. At the height of the forest's fall foliage, these yellow colors blend with the green of the adjacent evergreen trees, the soft yellow of the mountain prairies, and the epic whites of the snowy mountain peaks to create one of the greatest single autumnal scenes anywhere in Colorado.

Though this display only occurs during a two-week window in October, it's memorable enough to give the Flash of Gold Trail its permanent name!

Hikers can expect a moderately challenging mountain hike that involves a few sharp turns and some elevation gains. A few hikers do note that the trail is also popular with mountain bikers, which can be a bit of an annoyance for anyone traveling on foot. But, regardless of the logistics of sharing the trail, no one disputes the amazing scenery that hikers and bikers alike can find there!

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5 Mount Royal Trail

White river national forest.

The world-famous Maroon Bells are the single most famous sight in the larger White River National Forest. But this vast mountain region has plenty of other incredible scenic trails for anyone who is put off by the larger crowds that tend to flock to the Maroon Bells Scenic Area.

One excellent alternative trail, especially for hikers looking for great fall foliage viewing opportunities, is the 3.9-mile Mount Royal Trail . This particular trail is arguably the best destination for an introductory scenic tour of the White River National Forest, with much of its route passing through gorgeous mountain peaks, vast forests, and pristine alpine meadows.

Reviewers note that the Mount Royal Trail is beautiful year-round, but Autumn is when the trail's abundant grandeur reaches its peak. The trail's high elevation means that fall foliage begins around late September, and peaks around early October. During this time, the trail's alpine forests erupt in gorgeous displays of gold and fiery orange, all framed against the permanent green of the forest's coniferous trees, the deep blue of the Rocky Mountains, and the permanent snow at higher elevations.

4 Warner Point Nature Trail

Black canyon of the gunnison national park.

One advantage of leaf-peeping in the Western United States is the opportunity you get to view fall colors against scenery you wouldn't normally associate with "Fall." For example, most people wouldn't think of a deep, rocky canyon as being an ideal spot for viewing fall colors.

However, Colorado's Black Canyon of the Gunnison is just such a spot, and travelers fortunate enough to head out to the canyon in the autumn months can find some of the most vibrant--and unique--fall foliage displays anywhere in the country.

The Black Canyon of the Gunnison and its surrounding national park feature a unique range of geographic sites. The canyon itself is a dramatic force of nature, with steep black cliff walls descending at stark angles down to the white waters of the Gunnison River below. But surrounding the canyon are the scenic vistas of mountains and forests for which Colorado is famous.

Come autumn time, Colorado's fall colors provide a lovely frame for the more dramatic black cliffs of the canyon walls. Visitors who arrive at peak fall foliage season can get the best introductory view of the park's autumnal displays on the Warner Point Nature Trail .

As a 1.5-mile out-and-back hiking route, the Warner Point Naturel Trail is perhaps the best destination for getting excellent shots of both the canyon and the region's fall foliage without expending too much time or energy. This particular trail is also well-maintained and well-marked and includes several shaded benches where hikers can take a break and enjoy the scenery.

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3 Mosca Pass Trail

Great sand dunes national park & preserve.

Like the trails at Black Canyon of the Gunnison, the Mosca Pass Trail at Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve is an excellent spot for viewing Colorado's fall colors against an unusual backdrop. In this case, the trail showcases amazing fall foliage in conjunction with the towering dunes for which the park is named.

The result is one of the most unique and memorable fall scenes in the country, where the shades of gold and red from the mountain forests mesh with the bright, arid yellow of the sand. While the dunes resemble a desert more than a mountain forest, the contrast between the sand and the surrounding mountains and forests creates a mesmerizing effect that few hikers will soon forget.

While any trail in the park is a great way to experience this unique fall foliage display, the Mosca Pass Trail probably provides the best shots of the park's forest regions, rather than just the dunes. While other trails in the park center around the dunes, the Mosca Pass Trail takes hikers up along a mountain brook and through the gorgeous aspen groves and alpine forests for which the Rocky Mountains are so famous.

During the 6.2-mile hike, travelers will get exquisite shots of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the surrounding forests in full autumn display. Of course, hikers can also find excellent shots of the park's famous dunes as well, which provide an abundance of once-in-a-lifetime shots of the massive dunes framed against blissful autumn forests.

There are plenty of places to stay near Great Sand Dunes National Park for those who decide to extend their hiking trip.

2 Opal Lake Trail

San juan national forest.

Compared to the brilliant alpine forests farther east, the landscape of Southwestern Colorado is a bit more arid and "desert-like." This region sits close to the Four Corners region and geographically takes on characteristics more like those in Utah and Northern Arizona than the mountainous regions to the east.

However, this is not to say that Southwestern Colorado is devoid of amazing scenery in the autumn. The area's San Juan National Forest provides perhaps the most underrated fall displays in not only Colorado but in the US as a whole.

For example, the short but somewhat challenging Opal Lake Trail is an excellent destination to catch peak fall colors juxtaposed against the more arid and rocky landscapes of the Four Corners region. Located near the town of Pagosa Springs, the Opal Lake Trail gives hikers a terrific sample of the scenery (and terrain) that makes the San Juan Mountains so famous.

While anyone attempting a mountain trail should expect some challenging climbs, one benefit of the Opal Lake Trail is that it gets the difficult parts out of the way quite early. The first half of the trail's 2.3-mile route features a few steep and more challenging climbs up to higher elevations. Though these sections may have some hikers reconsidering their choices, the good news is that the trail gets the hard climbs out of the way early on.

Once hikers get past the first challenging sections, the second part of the trail is much flatter and much less strenuous. Here, hikers can enjoy a much more peaceful stroll through the mountains, while enjoying the gorgeous gold and orange coloration of the trail's alpine forests against the backdrop of the breathtaking mountain peaks.

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1 Kilpacker Trail

Lizard head wilderness.

An underappreciated benefit of leaf-peeping in Colorado is the unique effect of the state's mixed-forest regions. Many of the mountainous woodlands of Colorado feature sections of deciduous trees that change color in the fall, and evergreen pine forests that retain their deep green colors year-round. At peak fall foliage, these mixed forest regions create a one-of-a-kind effect where the shades of gold and red from the deciduous forests blend in with the tranquil green of the pine trees.

The deciduous and coniferous forests sit at different elevation zones in areas like the Lizard Head Wilderness in Southwest Colorado. Come autumn time, this creates an enchanting effect where the fall colors of the deciduous forests lie against the greens of the coniferous forests in a stark symmetrical pattern that looks almost man-made.

Hikers who want to experience this effect firsthand should head out to the popular Kilpacker Trail in the larger Lizard Head Wilderness. This particular trail offers the most comprehensive tour of the area's complex eco-regions, with the route passing through thick evergreen forests, large alpine meadows, and rocky mountain peaks.

In the region's peak fall foliage season between late September and early October, hikers are treated to beautiful displays of gold threaded against the evergreen colors of the pine trees and stunning mountain meadows. Patches of snow at higher elevations add a wintry effect to the whole scene. Plus, at the trail's end, hikers are rewarded with an amazing shot of the trail's famous waterfall!

• Top Sights In Colorado

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USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

With kids going back to school and the hope of cooler temperatures on the horizon, Mother Nature is gearing up for her annual spectacle of fall color. And what better way to enjoy it than leaf peeping? These 20 destinations — nominated by an expert panel as the top spots in the U.S. — are ideal for viewing the entire spectrum of fall foliage. Which place would you like to see the most? Vote once per day until voting ends on Monday, September 9 at noon ET. The winning destinations will be announced on Wednesday, September 18. Read the official  Readers' Choice rules . 

With kids going back to school and the hope of cooler temperatures on the horizon, Mother Nature is gearing up for her annual spectacle of fall color. And what better way to enjoy it than leaf peeping? These 20...   Read More

Best Destination for Fall Foliage Nominees

Photo courtesy of benedek / E+

Adirondacks, New York

While the Adirondacks are a popular destination for outdoor lovers year-round, the region truly shines in the fall. Picturesque hikes through forests, several annual fall festivals, and guided fall foliage bus tours make this a top spot for enjoying those vibrant autumn hues. 

Photo courtesy of Dobbs Productions and Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce

Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor and neighboring Acadia National Park frequently top the list of most popular tourism destinations — and the foliage draws many of those visitors to Maine in the fall specifically. A series of well-mapped scenic byways provides great vantage points for this autumn bucket-list destination.

Photo courtesy of Ogden Gigli

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

While temperatures do drop each fall, it's actually the waning sunlight that triggers the change in foliage colors. In The Berkshires, they celebrate that change with a fall foliage parade that's been running for almost seven decades. The tiny hamlets and towns that dot the region are filled with accommodations and farm-to-table eateries to round out a leaf-peeping trip. 

Photo courtesy of Sean Pavone / iStock via Getty Images Plus

Blue Ridge Mountains, Georgia

Fall colors are on full display each and every year in the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains. From hikes to ATV rides, there are several ways to enjoy the changing season. There's even an option to take a fall foliage train ride that meanders along ridges and valleys for the best views. Apple picking and fall festivals provide plenty of entertainment beyond taking in the sights, too. 

Photo courtesy of SeanXu / iStock Via Getty Images Plus

Breckenridge, Colorado

Situated on soaring peaks in Breckenridge, trees change color earlier than most places, beginning their annual show around mid-September. Aspen trees along local mountain ridges are known for their golden hue, and several festivals mean every autumn weekend is a great time to visit Breckenridge. 

Photo courtesy of Finger Lakes Regional Tourism Council

Finger Lakes, New York

The tiny towns that dot the Finger Lakes region have a prime seat for fall foliage. At Carolabarb Park overlooking Canandaigua Lake, picnic tables and viewfinders offer a perfect perch for those warm autumn hues. Hiking trails, bikeways, and scenic driving routes throughout the region offer a variety of ways to take in the views. 

Photo courtesy of ExploreHockingHiulls.com

Hocking Hills, Ohio

The plethora of parks and natural areas that make up the Hocking Hills region are dotted with rocky outcroppings and sweeping views to take in those warm fall colors. Two big festivals — the Bob Evans Farm Festival and the Circleville Pumpkin Show — center around celebrating autumn and offer some entertainment for tourists on the hunt for fall foliage. 

Photo courtesy of Visit Hot Springs

Hot Springs, Arkansas

Fall colors hit the Ouachita Mountains later in the season due to its southern location, so late October to early November are prime times for a trip to Hot Springs, Arkansas. Amazing views abound along the Grand Promenade National Recreation Trail and from the Hot Springs Mountain Tower overlooking Hot Springs National Park.

Photo courtesy of CelsoDiniz / iStock Via Getty Images Plus

Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada

The Sierra Nevada Mountains, which rim the Lake Tahoe basin, come alive in the fall as native aspens, cottonwoods, and willows change colors. Guests can enjoy viewing the leaves while hiking, on horseback, or kayaking. A scenic drive along historic Highway 50 captures some of the best views, and one aptly named local spot, Fallen Leaf Lake, offers a peaceful respite from busier tourist areas. 

Photo courtesy of Alex Byers

Laurel Highlands, Pennsylvania

Autumn colors peak in this region of the Allegheny Mountains around mid-October, making for a stunning show. The plethora of hiking and biking trails, including a portion of the Great Allegheny Passage, mean it's easy to explore the highlands during the height of the season. Several fall festivals add to the welcoming vibes in this region each October. 

Photo courtesy of Visit Rainier

Mount Rainier, Washington

Nothing sets off those fall colors like snowy peaks. At Mount Rainier, there's really no bad spot to view the foliage — but the view at Reflection Lakes is one of the most popular. The smooth surface of the placid lake creates a mirror image of the stunning colors, meaning visitors enjoy twice the beauty. 

Photo courtesy of Visit Mountaineer Country

Mountaineer Country, West Virginia

In North Central West Virginia, there's no shortage of open land. Those rolling, rocky hills also show off some of the best fall foliage views in the country. For leaf peeping in Mountaineer Country, the overlook at Coopers Rock State Forest is a favorite. 

Photo courtesy of New River Gorge Convention and Visitors Bureau

New River Gorge, West Virginia

Autumn views are stunning from every vista in New River Gorge, but a few favorite spots are from rocking chairs at the Canyon Rim Visitor Center or from the New River Gorge Bridge itself on the third Saturday in October each year. To commemorate the completion of the longest single-span steel arch bridge in the U.S., the bridge is closed for an extreme sport festival — right around when the leaves peak. 

Photo courtesy of Ron and Patty Thomas / iStock Via Getty Images Plus

San Bernardino County, California

While most travelers don't think of Southern California when hoping to view fall foliage, the area does have a few prime spots that love to show off. In the San Bernardino National Forest, the quaking apsen show off with brilliant golden hues in early October. Follow the hiking trails for the best viewing spots.

Photo courtesy of ricardocostaphotography / iStock Via Getty Images Plus

Shawangunk Mountains, New York

The close proximity of this destination to residents of many major East Coast cities (it's only 90 minutes from Manhattan) makes it a convenient place for city dwellers to get their fall fix. There's no shortage of spots to peep those leaves by foot or by car, and there's even a Fall Foliage Gala at the Opus 40 Sculpture Park and Museum. 

Photo courtesy of Cavan Images / iStock Via Getty Images Plus

Shenandoah Valley, Virginia

In the Shenandoah Valley, the winding roads and tree-laden mountaintops put on a show each October that locals wait for expectantly. A chairlift runs during leaf season at the Massanutten Resort for unobstructed foliage views, while at Shenandoah River State Park, the fall colors can be enjoyed from a canoe or kayak.

Photo courtesy of BackyardProduction / iStock Via Getty Images Plus

Stowe, Vermont

Consistently ranked among the best spots to view fall foliage in the country, Stowe really puts on a show. Because the spot is so popular, the destination offers a number of a guided tours and leaf peeping activities. At higher elevations like Mt. Mansfield and Smugglers’ Notch, the leaves change sooner than in the low-lying areas, so there are many options for a fall trip. 

Photo courtesy of @a.carpenter_photography

Upper Peninsula of Michigan

With around 7 million acres of forest abutting the shores of three different Great Lakes, changing leaves are the main event each fall in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. With 10 fall color routes that cover a total of nearly 1,500 miles, there are endless opportunities for a peaceful autumn drive to soak in the scenery. 

Photo courtesy of Alpine Digital Media

White Mountains, New Hampshire

Whether travelers are looking to spend a weekend in a tiny mountain town or wind through the White Mountains on one of many scenic fall itineraries, this New Hampshire spot draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each fall. The views are unparalleled from the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, as well as the Kancamagus Highway, a National Scenic Byway. 

Photo courtesy of William Reagan / iStock Via Getty Images Plus

Yellowstone National Park - Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho

An American classic, the sprawling Yellowstone National Park is gorgeous year-round. As the days grow shorter, though, the mountainous landscape displays foliage that can take a visitor's breath away. The park is less busy in the fall, which also creates a quieter experience for most guests. 

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

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Allison tibaldi.

Allison Tibaldi is a travel and food writer based...   Read More

Allison Tibaldi is a travel and food writer based in New York City. She has lived in Rome, Tuscany, Melbourne Australia, Toronto and Los Angeles. She studied early childhood development in graduate school and firmly believes that travel is the best education. She writes for numerous publications including CNN, Travel Channel, HGTV, am New York, Emirates Open Skies, Family Traveller and Travel Weekly.

Chez Chesak

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor...   Read More

‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Gary Monterosso

Gary Monterosso is an award-winning critic, who...   Read More

Gary Monterosso is an award-winning critic, who has written for national and regional publications. He is a regular guest on “You Oughta Know,” on WHYY-TV, a PBS station based in Philadelphia. Gary also hosts one-minute beverage updates on several southern NJ radio stations. From 2010-2017, he was seen on the History Channel show called “The Epic History of Everyday Things.” He is the author of the book, “Artisan Beers.” After a 41-year career as a NJ- based educator, Gary now teaches beer appreciation classes at Wilmington University. Gary has appeared on many television programs discussing craft beers and has guested on BBC radio offering an American perspective on the beverage. In late 2014, he lent his expertise to CBS News New York, by offering fall beer recommendations. One of the highlights of his career was a three-year stint on the Sirius Satellite Radio network, talking about the latest happenings in the beer world. In 2014, Gary was selected by Chilled Magazine to be a member of the “Chilled 100,” signifying him as one of the top 100 beverage personalities in the United States. He continues to be a fixture at regional beer events by hosting dinners and tasting seminars. He has qualified as a Certified Beer Server, a part of the Cicerone Certification Program, recognizing his knowledge of beer styles, culture, the brewing process and ingredients.

Jamie Davis Smith

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She...   Read More

Jamie is an attorney, writer and photographer. She was born with deeply ingrained wanderlust and has visited 45 countries and counting. She often brings her children along for the adventure and is passing her love of travel on to the next generation. Jamie has written for   Insider,   Fodor's Travel ,   Yahoo ,  the Huffington Post , the  Washington Post,   Viator  and  Reviewed  among many other publications. Jamie is from Philadelphia and now lives in Washington, DC, where she takes advantage of everything the region has to offer.    Jamie can be reached at  [email protected]  and can be found on  Twitter ,  Instagram  and  TikTok .

Jenny Peters

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los...   Read More

Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los Angeles-based freelance journalist, editor and party columnist specializing in travel, entertainment, film, food, wine, fashion and the other good things in life. She is a founding/voting member of the Critics Choice Association, who present the Critics’ Choice Awards every January. Her favorite places to be are on the beach in Southern California playing volleyball, scuba diving with the sharks in warm tropical waters or strolling the streets and soaking in the atmosphere of one of the world's great cities (New Orleans and Florence are her favorites).

Kristen Lummis

Kristen Lummis is a freelance writer based in...   Read More

Kristen Lummis is a freelance writer based in Western Colorado. The mom of two now-adult sons, Lummis broke into her writing career through snowsports, founding the website  braveskimom.com  in 2010 to provide family-friendly tips across a full range of winter topics. And while skiing is Lummis’ first true outdoor love, she grew up camping, hiking, biking, kayaking and traveling extensively with her family — pursuits that she continues today. She prides herself on unbiased opinions, based on activities and destinations she’s visited and experienced. Lummis is honored to be considered an “expert” for 10Best. Follow her @braveskimom on Instagram and Facebook. 

Kristin Luna

Kristin Luna is a Nashville-based travel writer...   Read More

Kristin Luna is a Nashville-based travel writer who has contributed to  Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, USA TODAY, Southern Living  and many more. You can follow her adventures via her blog  Camels & Chocolate  or on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram .

Kyle McCarthy

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of...   Read More

Kyle McCarthy is the co-founder and editor of Family Travel Forum, the trusted resource for family vacation planners since 1996. FTF’s award-winning publications: MyFamilyTravels.com , America’s Most Popular Family Vacations and  The Family Vacationist  e-newsletter  provide destination reviews, tips and  seasonal roundups  for all aspects of travel. Ms. McCarthy, author of a dozen Frommer’s guidebooks, also contributes to US News, CNN and other publications. She can be found on most social networks @familytravelforum.

Meg St-Esprit

Meg St-Esprit (she/her) is a freelance writer...   Read More

Meg St-Esprit (she/her) is a freelance writer chasing down and covering the most interesting and quirky ideas about parenting, home design, education and travel. She lives with her husband, four kids and way too many pets in Pittsburgh. Her work has appeared in a variety of publications including The New York Times, Washington Post, Romper, Fodor's, and more. Meg studied counseling and human development during her higher education journey, and applies that knowledge and expertise to her writing as well. When she's not writing, she's definitely camping.

Melody Pittman

Melody Pittman is the owner and creator of Read More

Melody Pittman is the owner and creator of Wherever I May Roam Blog  and is co-owner of the Southern Travelers Explore annual conference, in its 4th year, which brings CVBS and writers/influencers together from all over the country. She is a digital influencer and writes for both online and print publications, such as Travel Awaits, Charleston Home and Living Magazine, Matador Network, She Buys Travel, and more. Melody has worked with major brands during her nine-year career, such as Viking River Cruises, Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons, Disney, hundreds of tourism boards, and GO RVing.  Melody’s first book “100 Things to Do in West Virginia Before You Die” was released in the spring of 2023. She has a podcast, 100ThingsWV, and social channels to go along with the book. Melody loves road trips, small towns, cruising, and sharing lesser-known destinations with her followers via TikTok , Youtube, IG , and FB . After a year of full-time RV travel, she now resides in Mesquite, Nevada. 

Nicky Omohundro

Nicky Omohundro is the founder and editor of Read More

Nicky Omohundro is the founder and editor of LittleFamilyAdventure.com , the popular family travel & lifestyle website that inspires families to leave no child left inside. Since 2013 LFA has been providing inspiration to get families outdoors, eat well, and travel everywhere from their own backyard to around the world. Always up for a family adventure, she has traveled to 37 states and 6 countries to zip-line through a Costa Rican rainforest, see Finland’s Northern Lights, and go camping throughout the US. Nicky is the co-founder of Tourism WorX a travel consultancy group. Connect with her Twitter  and Instagram .

Catherine Smith

Catherine Smith, Expert and Award Eligibility...   Read More

Catherine Smith, Expert and Award Eligibility Coordinator for the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards, has a special interest in health and wellness, family travel, women's solo travel and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Catherine is the founder of Her Bags Were Packed where she focuses on helping women release emotional baggage through solo travel and self-discovery.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

The 18 Best Places to See Fall Foliage in the USA

From national and state parks to small towns, these destinations are the best places to see autumn foliage..

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With the glowing golds of aspens and hickories, the burnt orange of sumac, and the vermilions and plums of oaks and maples, the colors of autumn are some of nature’s most spectacular displays. Fortunately, if you live in the United States, you won’t have to travel too far afield to find a spectacular show of fall foliage, thanks to numerous national parks , state parks , and scenic drives around the country. Whether you’re on the hunt for a classic leaf-peeping experience in New England, or prefer your fall foliage paired with a glass of California pinot, here are some of the best places in the United States to see fall colors .

Grand Marais is a gorgeous stop on a fall foliage road trip.

Photo by Eva Breitinger/Shutterstock

1. Grand Marais, Minnesota

When to see fall foliage: Mid-September to early October

The crown jewel of Lake Superior’s North Shore, this small town is the ultimate fall cornucopia—overflowing with delicious things to eat, see, buy, and do. The lung-busting hike to Devil’s Kettle Falls at Judge C.R. Magney State Park will take you the better part of a morning, but the payoff is a mysterious “waterfall to nowhere”. You’ll have to see it to know what we mean.

The small town is a part of U.S. Highway 61, an approximately 1,400-mile road connecting New Orleans, Louisiana, to Wyoming, Minnesota. Embark on this cross-country trip and you’ll see incredible foliage along the Mississippi River. And put on some Bob Dylan (preferably his album Highway 61 Revisited ) for the ultimate playlist.

Where to stay: East Bay Suites

• Book now: odysseyresorts.com

The lakeside East Bay Suites offers clean and comfortable rooms steps from the town center and Lake Superior. Bonus: It’s dog friendly.

Sequoia National Park isn’t all evergreen; in the autumn months, the park’s dogwoods turn orange and crimson.

Photo by Sara Edwards/Shutterstock

2. Sequoia National Park, California

When to see fall foliage: October

Underneath the canopy of towering sequoias of Sequoia National Park , fallen fern fronds blanket the forest floor with a bright lemon yellow. This approximately 320 - square-mile park is one of the best national parks for catching fall foliage , in part because its namesake evergreens don’t change color, providing a contrast to the blue oaks and dogwoods as they turn garnet and amber. Afar contributor Melanie Haiken advises travelers to visit the uncrowded southern Mineral King Valley to witness warm hues of aspen, cottonwood, and thimbleberry, which frame the basin of the glacial valley.

Where to stay: Silver City Mountain Resort

• Book now: silvercityresort.com

The long-standing Silver City Mountain Resort offers guests a peaceful cabin retreat among the sequoias and an on-site restaurant. (Don’t miss a slice of its house-made pies.)

Glacier National Park is known for a particular deciduous pine that turns bright yellow in fall.

Photo by Jacob W. Frank for Glacier NPS/Flickr

3. Glacier National Park, Montana

When to see fall foliage: Mid-September to mid-October

A gorgeous national park for a quiet retreat , Glacier National Park is awash with color for several weeks between mid-September and mid-October. In particular, the western larch gets a lot of admirers as its needles turn yellow before falling off (which rarely happens to coniferous trees).

For the best views, Highway 2 (particularly the southwest side of the park) and Lake McDonald are a couple of places for fall foliage action. You can even admire them from the Flathead River, which flows through the park, on a rafting trip .

Where to stay: Lake McDonald Lodge & Cabins

• Book now: glaciernationalparklodges.com

Book a stay inside the park with a room at the Swiss-styled Lake McDonald Lodge & Cabins . Built in 1913–14, it occupies the scenic shore of the largest lake in Glacier National Park—and the views of it are stunning.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park includes almost 50,000 acres of land.

Photo by Wirestock Creators/Shutterstock

4. Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Michigan

Tahquamenon Falls State Park , on the Upper Peninsula, is best known for its Upper Falls: As one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, it’s more than 200 feet wide and has a drop of over 50 feet. Downstream, you can find Lower Falls, which consists of five smaller waterfalls pooling around an island. Although this is a popular summer spot for hikers to traverse more than 35 miles of trails, the park is resplendent in fall. Across its 46,000 acres, trees in practically all shades of yellow, orange, and red frame the dramatic vistas.

Where to stay: Magnuson Grand Lakefront Paradise

• Book now: magnusongrandlakefront.com

About a 20-minute drive from Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Magnuson Grand Lakefront Paradise is located on Lake Superior’s Whitefish Bay. In addition to offering a complimentary breakfast, the stay also has a hot tub and sauna.

5. Talkeetna, Alaska

When to see fall foliage: Late August to early September

Early fall is a quieter, brilliant time to check out this laid-back mountain town, which has a colorful history as an outpost beloved by gold miners, trappers, and homesteaders. (The Talkeetna Historical Society Museum is a good place to start.)

On a clear day, Denali—the tallest mountain in North America—is visible, but be sure to make time for the national park proper: By September, aspen and balsam poplar trees at the entrance are a brilliant yellow, and scrub vegetation (also known as the taiga) turns rust colored in cooler months, making for an impressive vista.

Where to stay: Denali Fireside Cabins & Suites

• Book now: denalifireside.com

The family-owned Denali Fireside Cabins & Suites is a quiet resort with log cabins and suites within walking distance to town. It also offers complimentary pickup from the train station, should you journey on the Alaska Railroad .

Scenic Shenandoah National Park is only 75 miles from Washington, D.C.

Photo by Vladimir Grablev/Shutterstock

6. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

When to see fall foliage: Mid-September to mid-November

For three days every October, Shenandoah National Park offers one of the more creative ways to celebrate the season: the Shenandoah Fall Foliage Bike Festival (which will take place October 18–20 in 2024), when anywhere from 550 to 750 bikers ride gorgeous routes for a weekend. Nature’s dazzling show starts earlier than that, however, in the high mountains around Swift Run Gap and Lewis Mountain; toward the end of September, Virginia creeper turns wine red and maples begin to flame throughout the area near Upper Pocosin in the national park.

The best—and most popular—driving route for leaf viewing is along the Skyline Drive Scenic Byway, which has no fewer than 75 scenic overlooks along its 105 miles. Bacon Hollow and Stony Man Overlook are among the best spots from which to take in the buttery yellow hickories, chili pepper–red oaks, and maples in every shade.

Where to stay: Oakhurst Inn

• Book now: oakhurstinn.com

While Shenandoah is a doable day trip from the Washington, D.C. area (the park is about a 90-minute drive from the nation’s capital), consider embracing fall with a collegiate tint at the boutique Oakhurst Inn , a 36-room property with history from the 1910s. It’s located in Charlottesville, Virginia, 30 minutes east of the Skyline Scenic Drive Byway.

Head to Franconia Notch State Park for vistas of the White Mountains.

Photo by haveseen/Shutterstock

7. Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire

In the midst of White Mountain National Forest , along eight miles of I-93, are many outdoor activities packed into one state park: Echo Lake at the northern end of the park; a two-mile, waterfall-dotted walk through Flume Gorge at the southern end; and a hike along the Appalachian Trail in between. Conveniently, the park is a short jaunt north off the epic Kancamagus Highway, a scenic byway that curves 56 miles through dense foliage.

Where to stay: Lafayette Place Campground and Sugar Hill Inn

• Book now: newhampshirestateparks.reserveamerica.com | sugarhillinn.com

Lafayette Place Campground is the most central camping site for the park. If you prefer a freshly made bed, check into the charming Sugar Hill Inn ; its on-site restaurant, spa services, and cozy stone fireplaces will pamper guests after a long day outdoors.

Smugglers’ Notch State Park is located near Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak.

Photo by Jessica Mae Gonzaga/Shutterstock

8. Smugglers’ Notch State Park, Vermont

When to see fall foliage: September to mid-October

One of four state parks located within Mount Mansfield State Forest , Smugglers’ Notch State Park is named for the narrow pass in the Green Mountains where Vermonters used to smuggle goods from Canada in the 1800s. During autumn, those mountains turn into a showcase of red, yellow, and orange. The park is a must-stop on a fall road trip throughout the state —a mere 10 or so minutes by car brings travelers to the town of Stowe, which calls itself “Fall’s Color Capital”.

Where to stay: Field Guide Lodge

• Book now: larkhotels.com/hotels/field-guide-lodge

Decor touches like aspen tree wallpaper, deer motifs, and indoor fireplaces give the centrally located Field Guide Lodge a cozy, escape-to-the-woods atmosphere. And if you’re not ready to go indoors, worry not—the property has outdoor firepits and a seasonal hot tub to enjoy after the sun goes down.

Manchester is one of the best places to see Vermont’s maple trees change colors.

Photo by Steven Noroian/Shutterstock

9. Manchester, Vermont

Manchester, a town hugged by southern Vermont’s Taconic and Green mountains, shines most in fall. For DIY travelers cobbling together their own itinerary, be sure to build in stops at some famous covered bridges: The 117-foot Chiselville Bridge, spanning Roaring Branch brook in Sunderland, and the oft-painted, 166-year-old Bridge at the Green in West Arlington are not to be missed.

Where to stay: Inn at Manchester and the Kimpton Taconic Hotel

• Book now: innatmanchester.com | taconichotel.com

Book a stay at the 21-room, family-run Inn at Manchester , on a peaceful, grassy, four-acre property with views of the nearby forests, or just down the road at centrally located, four-star Kimpton Taconic Hotel. Its restaurant, the Copper Grouse, serves fresh, American fare like smash burgers and wedge salads.

Enjoy the foliage up close while on the Cascades Trail in North Adams.

10. North Adams, Massachusetts

Nestled in the Berkshires near the Vermont state line, this charming small town is home to the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) , a 19th-century factory mill complex turned modern center for world-class art. But given the vibrant autumn colors, you will want to spend most of your time outdoors: Head to nearby Mount Greylock for hiking trails that lead to the highest point in Massachusetts. The summit, which you can also reach by car, features a 12,500-acre preserve.

For a fall foliage activity, take the Cascades Trail —it’s a fairly gentle walk close to picturesque downtown North Adams, with the payoff of a waterfall.

Where to stay: Tourists

• Book now: touristswelcome.com

Check into Tourists , which was opened in 2018 by John Stirratt—the bassist with the Chicago alt-rock group Wilco—as a contemporary, rustic-chic hotel with a bar and comfort-food joint, the Airport Rooms.

Starting in September, the Hudson Valley becomes a display of spectacular color.

Photo by Carol Bell/Shutterstock

11. Hudson Valley, New York

When to see fall foliage: Mid-September to Late October

New York’s Hudson Valley is a 2.5-hour drive from the city, making it a great weekend getaway during autumn when the region’s oak, maple, and beech trees change colors. Beacon offers some of the best viewing experiences along the 70 miles of hiking trails throughout Hudson Highlands State Park and atop the 1,500-foot Mount Beacon.

But there’s plenty to see off the trails, too. Afar contributor Mark Ellwood notes that the towns along the Hudson River buzz with creative energy: Drive to Andes and you can taste some of the local cider at Wayside or head to Hudson and check out the area’s innovative food scene at spots like Culture Cream and Lil’ Deb’s Oasis.

Where to stay: The Maker

• Book now: themaker.com

The Maker is a 2020-opened property in Hudson featuring four Maker suites, each with a unique theme ranging from the book-filled “Writer” to the painting-covered “Artist.”

Groves of aspen in Rocky Mountain National Park glow yellow in autumn.

12. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

When to see fall foliage: Late September

Spanning both sides of the Continental Divide, Rocky Mountain National Park glows with quaking aspens, their gold and copper canopies contrasting elegantly with their silvery trunks. Aspens thrive at elevations between 7,000 and 9,500 feet, so head to the national park spots Hollowell Park, Beaver Meadows, and Glacier Gorge, which are also home to pumpkin-orange cottonwoods. Nothing tops the hiking trail to Gem Lake, along which dense groves of aspen pop out against the red rock formations of Lumpy Ridge.

Fall is also rutting season for the park’s elk herds, which migrate down from the high peaks as the temperature drops; look for them along Bear Lake Road and in the Colorado River Valley on the west side. Don’t miss a photo op at Grand Lake, just outside the park boundary, with its deep green waters thickly haloed by fiery aspens.

Where to stay: Taharaa Mountain Lodge

• Book now: taharaa.com

Immerse yourself in nature at one of the 18 rooms and suites at Taharaa Mountain Lodge , which is at the foot of Lily Mountain and only five miles from the park.

Travelers to Leonard Harrison State Park can explore fall nature on hikes like the Overlook Trail.

Photo by Scenic Corner/Shutterstock

13. Leonard Harrison State Park, Pennsylvania

When to see fall foliage: Late September to early October

The 585-acre Leonard Harrison State Park sits smack on the east rim of Pine Creek Gorge, known as Pennsylvania’s Grand Canyon, which is 800 feet deep and nearly 4,000 feet across. Take the Turkey Trail Path one mile to the bottom of Pine Creek Gorge, which is especially scenic in fall when red maples, hickories, and white oaks are awash with warm colors.

Where to stay: Rough Cut Lodge

• Book now: roughcutlodge.com

Among the nearest lodging to the Pine Creek Gorge, Rough Cut Lodge offers a number of cabins and suites that are clean and spacious and include amenities such as televisions, kitchens, and fireplaces.

Get out on the water to catch some of the best views of Acadia National Park.

Photo by Doug Lemke/Shutterstock

14. Acadia National Park, Maine

When to see fall foliage: Early to late October

In autumn, the thickly forested peaks that slope down to the Atlantic in Acadia National Park are a stark contrast to the blue sea. You can appreciate photogenic views of the park’s craggy coastline from a boat, but you won’t see its blueberry bushes turn lipstick red or the sumac flame scarlet unless you hike one of the park’s more than 150 miles of trail.

The area’s best view is from the Blue Hill Overlook atop the 1,530-foot Cadillac Mountain, and it’s worth the seven-mile round-trip hike for a look. Toward the base of the mountain (just off Park Loop Road), the 187-acre Jordan Pond offers a spectacular view of a multi-hued treeline against two rounded hills known as the Bubbles. For a truly classic fall color experience, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the park and listen to the hooves clop over fallen leaves.

Where to stay: Under Canvas Acadia

• Book now: undercanvas.com

Sure, you could book a hotel in nearby Bar Harbor. But if you prefer to spend your entire weekend out in the wild, book a luxurious, glamping-style tent at Under Canvas Acadia , where guests can sleep and make s’mores en plein aire , all without forgoing any creature comforts (such as a comfortable bed, clean showers, or wood-burning fireplaces).

Enjoy the scenery of Sonoma County, which is home to more than 400 wineries.

Photo by cdrin/Shutterstock

15. Sonoma wine country, California

When to see fall foliage: Mid-October to mid-November

Autumn marks harvest season in Sonoma wine country , when grapes for the region’s world-famous wines are picked and winemakers begin to barrel the year’s vintages. As the grapevines are picked, their leaves begin to change, resulting in a brilliant display of sunset-hued vineyards against a backdrop of Douglas fir and redwood trees.

But it’s not just the scenery that makes Sonoma County vineyards worth visiting in the fall —it’s also a festive time. With the busiest few weeks of the year behind them, many wineries will celebrate their hard work with harvest dinners (some exclusive to wine club members, some open to the public) and by adding new vintages to their tasting lists.

Where to stay: Montage Healdsburg, the Madrona, and Harmon House

• Book now: montage.com | themadronahotel.com | harmonguesthouse.com

Base yourself in historic Healdsburg, a small town in the heart of several wine growing regions (such as the Dry Creek and Russian River AVAs). Choose from Montage Healdsburg , an ultra-luxurious resort on a quiet property outside of town; the Madrona , a historic mansion–turned–hotel that was remodeled in 2022; or Harmon House , a stylish property with a steam room and a rooftop bar right off of the town’s main plaza.

Founded in 1705, Lambertville is a small town full of paths for admiring the changing trees.

Photo by JWCohen/Shutterstock

16. Lambertville, New Jersey

When to see fall foliage: Mid- to late October

Visiting Lambertville is like getting two sweet towns in one, as it sits across the Delaware River from the equally charming New Hope, Pennsylvania. To immerse yourself in nature, the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park is five minutes from Lambertville on the Jersey side; here you can canoe, picnic, bicycle, hike, horseback ride, or fish for perch and pickerel.

On the New Hope side of the river, Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve is flush with colorful fall foliage. In October, the beech trees, black oaks, and maples turn yellow, red, and purple; come November, you can see wild senna, witch hazel, and juniper berries on Eastern red cedars.

Where to stay: Four Seasons Philadelphia and Lambertville House

• Book now: fourseasons.com/philadelphia | lambertvillehouse.com

Less than an hour’s drive away, Lambertville is an easy day trip while visiting Philadelphia , which landed a spot on Afar’s Where to Go in 2024 list. The 2019-opened Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia , occupying the top 12 floors of the Comcast Technology Center, is a top place to base yourself for a city stop after your fill of nature.

But if you prefer to spend the night in Lambertville, book a room at Lambertville House , which has 26 quaint guest rooms in a historic building that dates back to the 1800s.

17. New River Gorge, West Virginia

When to see fall foliage: Mid-October

The United States’ newest national park, designated in 2020 , New River Gorge is best explored in autumn, when the region’s typically hot and muggy summers begin to give way to cooler temperatures, and the poplars, aspens, and cottonwood trees start to turn orange.

Spend a full day leisurely driving the scenic backroads that weave in and out of the park. Outdoorsy travelers won’t want to miss one of the more active ways to explore—whether by whitewater rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, rock climbing, or hiking. For guided tours and gear rentals, ACE Adventure Resort is an excellent option for climbing, rafting, or kayaking. Arrowhead Bike Farm specializes in mountain bike rentals and has a knowledgeable staff who can recommend trails for any level.

Where to stay: Adventures on the Gorge and Lafayette Flats

• Book now: adventuresonthegorge.com | lafayetteflats.com

Adventures on the Gorge doesn’t just specialize in white-water rafting and outdoor excursions—it also has a variety of cabins and camping options on its park-adjacent property. For a stay in town, opt for Lafayette Flats in nearby Fayetteville, a collection of vacation apartments in a recently renovated, stone building that has stood at the center of town for more than 100 years.

With over 100 species of trees, Great Smoky Mountains National Park boasts an impressive variety of autumn color.

Photo by Model/Shutterstock

18. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee and North Carolina

When to see fall foliage: Mid-October to early November

With more than 100 species of trees , most of them deciduous, Great Smoky Mountains National Park has an impressive variety of fall colors—and one of the longest fall foliage seasons as well. Yellow birches, beeches, and hobblebushes show flashes of color as early as mid-September in higher elevations—like those along the Sugarland Mountain and Appalachian Trails—and autumn wildflowers like coreopsis, goldenrods, asters, and black-eyed Susans add layers of other colors.

But the most spectacular show comes in October, with the deep plum and garnet hues of the hickories, sweet gums, and red and sugar maples. To escape the crush of fall color fans at popular spots like Cades Cove, head east to drive the Roaring Fork nature loop and walk along little-visited Big Creek, or take in the sweeping panoramas from Balsam Mountain and the Blue Ridge Parkway on the park’s southeastern edge.

Where to stay: Cataloochee Ranch

• Book now: cataloocheeranch.com

There are a number of appealling hotel, camping, and glamping choices in the Great Smoky Mountains area. One of the best is Cataloochee Ranch in Maggie Valley, North Carolina—the dude ranch sits in the foothills of the Smokies, ideal for a fall foliage experience without the need to leave your hotel.

This article was originally published in 2020; it was updated on August 14, 2024, to include current information.