Fall in Vermont: Best Things To Do in Vermont in the Fall
Fall in Vermont is a breathtaking spectacle that draws visitors from all over the world. As a first-time visitor, you’re in for a treat as the Green Mountain State transforms into a vibrant canvas of reds, oranges, and golds.
This comprehensive guide on the best things to do in Vermont in the fall, will walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of your first fall experience in Vermont. From must-see scenic drives and outdoor adventures to cozy accommodations and local festivals, we’ll cover all the essentials for an unforgettable autumn trip to Vermont.
Best Time To Visit Fall in Vermont
For first-time visitors, timing your trip to catch peak fall colours in Vermont is crucial. The foliage season typically begins in mid-September and runs through mid-October, with peak colours usually occurring around the first week of October.
However, as a newcomer, it’s important to understand that Mother Nature doesn’t always follow a strict schedule, so flexibility in your travel dates can be beneficial.
Here’s a general timeline to help you plan:
Mid to Late September: Colours begin to change in the northern parts of the state and at higher elevations. This is a great time for early birds who want to beat the crowds.
Late September to Early October: This is typically when fall colours are at their peak in most of the state. It’s the busiest time, but also the most spectacular.
Mid-October: Colours peak in southern Vermont and at lower elevations. You might still catch some great colours, especially if it’s been a warm fall.
Pro Tips for First-Timers:
Use the Vermont Fall Foliage Forecaster: This online tool provides up-to-date information on foliage conditions across the state.
Book Accommodations Early: If you’re aiming for peak season, reserve your lodging at least 3-6 months in advance.
Consider Midweek Travel: Weekends during peak foliage season can be crowded. If possible, plan your visit for weekdays to enjoy a more relaxed experience.
Must-Do Things in Fall in Vermont for First-Time Visitors
As a first-time visitor to Vermont in the fall, you’ll want to experience the best the state has to offer. Here’s a detailed list of must-do activities in Vermont to make your trip unforgettable.
Explore Charming Vermont Towns
Woodstock: Often called “the prettiest small town in America,” Woodstock offers covered bridges, quaint shops, and the beautiful Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park.
Things to do in Woodstock:
The Billings Farm & Museum for a taste of Vermont’s agricultural heritage. Watch farm demonstrations, meet the animals, and learn about sustainable farming practices.
The charming Woodstock Village Green, surrounded by historic buildings and maple trees. Take a self-guided walking tour to admire the Federal and Greek Revival architecture.
The nearby Quechee Gorge, often called “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon.” Walk along the rim for stunning views, especially when framed by fall foliage.
Middle Covered Bridge, one of Vermont’s most photographed covered bridges. It’s particularly picturesque when surrounded by autumn colours.
F.H. Gillingham & Sons, Vermont’s oldest general store, operating since 1886. Browse local products and unique gifts in this historic setting.
Stowe: Nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains, Stowe is the quintessential Vermont fall destination. This quintessential Vermont ski town is equally charming in fall, with its white-steepled church and mountain backdrop.
Things to do in Vermont in the fall in Stowe include:
Riding the Gondola SkyRide at Stowe Mountain Resort for panoramic views of the fall foliage. The ride takes you to the summit of Mount Mansfield, where you can enjoy hiking trails and a cliff-top restaurant.
Visiting the Von Trapp Family Lodge, inspired by “The Sound of Music.” Take a history tour, enjoy Austrian-inspired cuisine, or hike the 2,500-acre property.
Sampling local craft beers at The Alchemist brewery. Their world-famous Heady Topper IPA is a must-try for beer enthusiasts.
Exploring the Stowe Recreation Path, a 5.3-mile paved trail perfect for walking, biking, or rollerblading amidst fall colours. Visiting the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum to learn about the state’s winter sports history.
Manchester: Known for its outlet shopping, Manchester also offers historic sites and beautiful fall scenery in the surrounding mountains. Take time to stroll through these towns, chat with locals, and soak in the authentic Vermont atmosphere.
Burlington
Vermont’s largest city offers a perfect blend of urban amenities and natural beauty.
Fall activities in Burlington include:
Strolling down Church Street Marketplace, lined with shops and cafes. Enjoy street performers, local boutiques, and outdoor dining.
Taking a cruise on Lake Champlain to see the fall colours from the water. The Spirit of Ethan Allen offers narrated scenic cruises with stunning views of the Adirondacks and Green Mountains.
Visiting the Ethan Allen Homestead Museum to learn about Vermont’s history. Take a guided tour of Allen’s restored 1787 farmhouse and explore the nature trails.
Exploring the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, an interactive science center and aquarium. Learn about the lake’s ecosystem and history through hands-on exhibits.
Biking or walking the Burlington Bike Path along the lake shore. The 8-mile path offers beautiful views of the lake and the Adirondack Mountains.
Take a Scenic Drive
Vermont’s winding roads offer some of the best ways to experience fall colours.
Route 100 Scenic Byway: Known as the “Skier’s Highway,” this 200-mile route runs the length of the state, offering stunning views of the Green Mountains and breathtaking views of Vermont fall leaves. Don’t miss the stretch between Wilmington and Stowe. Start in Wilmington and head north, passing through charming towns like Weston, Ludlow, and Stowe. Don’t miss the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site in Plymouth Notch along the way.
Molly Stark Byway (Route 9): This east-west route winds through the southern Green Mountains, offering spectacular views and charming towns.
Route 7: This north-south route takes you through picturesque towns and offers panoramic views of the Champlain Valley.
Smugglers’ Notch: This narrow mountain pass between Stowe and Jeffersonville is a must-see during fall in Vermont. The winding road offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Be sure to stop at the numerous pull-offs to take in the scenery and snap photos.
Pro Tip: Start your drives early in the morning to catch the mist rising from the valleys and to avoid midday traffic.
Go Hiking
Vermont’s Green Mountains offer some of the best hiking experiences in New England, especially during fall. Here are some trails suitable for various skill levels.
Mount Philo State Park: An easy 1.5-mile round trip hike with rewarding views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks.
Stowe Pinnacle Trail: A moderate 3.7 mile hike with spectacular views of the fall colours in Stowe Valley. The summit offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Start early to avoid crowds and catch the morning light on the fall foliage.
Camel’s Hump: For more experienced hikers, this challenging 6-mile round trip rewards you with 360-degree views from Vermont’s third-highest peak.
Remember to wear proper hiking boots, bring plenty of water, and pack layers as mountain temperatures can be unpredictable.
Visit a Pumpkin Patch or Apple Orchard
Fall in Vermont isn’t complete without a visit to a local farm.
Shelburne Orchards: Offers apple picking, a farm store, and beautiful views of Lake Champlain.
Sam Mazza’s Farm Market: Features a pumpkin patch, corn maze, and hayrides.
Scott Farm Orchard: Home to over 130 varieties of eco-certified apples, with tours and tastings available.
Don’t forget to try some fresh apple cider and cider donuts – they’re a Vermont fall staple!
Apple Picking
Nothing says “fall in Vermont” quite like picking your own apples. Visit one of the state’s many orchards, such as:
Shelburne Orchards near Burlington
They offer wagon rides, a farm market, and hard cider tastings. Try their famous apple cider doughnuts, made fresh daily.
Scott Farm Orchard in Dummerston
Known for its heirloom apple varieties, some dating back to the 1600s. Take a guided tour to learn about the orchard’s history and sustainable practices.
Champlain Orchards in Shoreham
Vermont’s oldest continuously operating orchard, offering over 100 varieties of apples. Don’t miss their pick-your-own pumpkin patch and corn maze in the fall.
Attend a Fall Festival
Vermont comes alive with festivals during the fall season. Here are some top picks for pumpkin picking in Vermont.
Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin’ Festival (Stowe): Watch pumpkins soar through the air launched by medieval-style trebuchets.
Stowe Foliage Arts Festival: Browse works by local artisans against a backdrop of stunning fall colors.
Mount Snow Oktoberfest: Enjoy German food, music, and of course, beer, all while surrounded by beautiful fall foliage.
These festivals offer a chance to experience local culture and meet fellow leaf-peepers.
Take a Fall Foliage Train Ride
For a unique perspective on fall colours, consider a scenic train ride. The Green Mountain Railroad offers fall foliage trips that are perfect for first-time visitors.
Chester to Rockingham Round Trip: A 3-hour journey through the Connecticut River Valley.
White River Junction to Thetford: A 2-hour trip along the Connecticut River with beautiful rural views.
These trips often sell out, so book well in advance.
Visit a Sugar House
While maple sugaring season is in spring, many sugar houses are open year-round and offer a fascinating glimpse into Vermont’s maple industry.
Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks (Montpelier): Offers tours, tastings, and a chance to learn about the maple sugaring process.
Sugarbush Farm (Woodstock): Combines maple syrup production with a cheese-making operation, offering samples of both.
Don’t leave without trying some maple creemee, Vermont’s version of soft-serve ice cream infused with real maple syrup.
Go Leaf Peeping by Water
For a different perspective on fall foliage, consider these water-based activities in Vermont.
Lake Champlain Cruises: Several companies offer fall foliage cruises on Lake Champlain, providing stunning views of the Adirondacks and Green Mountains.
Canoe or Kayak Trip: Rent a canoe or kayak and explore smaller bodies of water like the Waterbury Reservoir or Lake St. Catherine.
These activities offer a peaceful way to enjoy the fall colours reflected in the water.
Visit a Covered Bridge
Vermont is famous for its covered bridges, and fall is the perfect time to explore them, check out these.
Quechee Covered Bridge: Located in the charming village of Quechee, this bridge offers views of the Ottauquechee River and Quechee Gorge.
Silk Road Covered Bridge: This picturesque bridge in Bennington is surrounded by beautiful fall foliage.
Many of these bridges are near hiking trails or scenic drives, making them easy to incorporate into your itinerary.
Indulge in Fall Comfort Food
Fall in Vermont is a food lover’s paradise. Don’t miss these culinary experiences:
Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour (Waterbury): While ice cream is good any time of year, the fall-themed Flavors are a special treat.
Cold Hollow Cider Mill (Waterbury Center): Watch cider being made and try their famous cider donuts.
Vermont Country Store (Weston or Rockingham): Step back in time at this classic general store, offering a wide variety of Vermont-made products and nostalgic items.
Remember to also look for local restaurants featuring seasonal fall menus showcasing Vermont’s harvest bounty.