6 Places to See Fall Foliage in Vermont – Vermont Fall Leaves
Vermont’s fall foliage is a breathtaking spectacle that draws visitors from around the world. For first-time visitors, discovering the best spots to witness this autumnal transformation can be overwhelming.
That’s why I’ve compiled this guide to the top 5 places to see fall foliage in Vermont for first-time visitors. As a long-time resident and avid leaf-peeper, I’m excited to share my insider knowledge with you.
Let’s dive into the vibrant world of Vermont’s fall colours!
1. Stowe: The Quintessential Vermont Fall Experience
Stowe is often considered the crown jewel of Vermont fall foliage destinations. This charming town, nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town charm, it’s ones of the best places in Vermont in the fall.
Peak foliage in Stowe typically occurs in early to mid-October, making it an ideal time for a Vermont fall day trip.
Best viewing spots:
- Gondola SkyRide at Stowe Mountain Resort: Take a scenic ride for panoramic views of the fall foliage.
- Auto Toll Road: Drive up Mount Mansfield for breathtaking vistas.
- Stowe Recreation Path: A 5.3-mile paved trail perfect for walking or biking amidst fall colors.
As you drive along the winding roads, you’ll be treated to a kaleidoscope of red, orange, and gold leaves set against a backdrop of evergreen forests and rugged mountain peaks.
The Vermont fall aesthetic is on full display in Stowe, making it a must-visit for any fall foliage enthusiast. One of the best things to do in fall in Vermont is to take a scenic drive along the famous Route 100.
This picturesque highway winds through the heart of Stowe, offering countless opportunities to pull over and snap photos of the stunning fall colours.
For an even more immersive experience, consider taking a gondola ride up Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak.
The views from the top are simply breathtaking, especially when the mountainsides are ablaze with autumn hues. Stowe is also an excellent base for your Vermont fall vacation itinerary.
With numerous cozy bed and breakfasts and luxurious resorts, it’s one of the best places to stay in Vermont in the fall.
After a day of leaf-peeping, you can unwind with a locally crafted beer or a farm-to-table meal at one of Stowe’s many excellent restaurants.
2. Smugglers’ Notch: A Hidden Gem of Fall Beauty
Just a short drive from Stowe lies Smugglers’ Notch, a narrow mountain pass that transforms into a wonderland of colour each autumn. Smugglers Notch Vermont fall scenery is truly spectacular, with towering cliffs framing a tapestry of vibrant foliage.
Peak foliage here usually occurs in late September to early October, slightly earlier than Stowe due to its higher elevation. It’s one of the best places to visit in Vermont fall.
Best viewing spots:
- Sterling Pond Trail: A moderate hike leading to a pristine mountain pond surrounded by fall colours.
- Bingham Falls: A short hike to a stunning 40-foot waterfall framed by autumn foliage.
- Smugglers’ Notch State Park: Offers numerous hiking trails and picnic areas amidst the colourful landscape.
The winding road through the notch offers numerous pull-offs where you can park and explore the surrounding forests on foot.
Hiking is one of the most popular things to do in Vermont in the fall, and Smugglers’ Notch offers trails for all skill levels.
The Sterling Pond Trail is a moderate hike that rewards you with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a serene alpine pond. As you ascend, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a sea of colourful leaves, creating a truly immersive fall experience.
For those seeking a more relaxed way to enjoy the fall colours, consider taking a scenic drive through the notch. The road itself is an adventure, with hairpin turns and dramatic rock formations adding to the excitement.
Just be sure to check road conditions before you go, as the notch road can close due to weather in late fall. Smugglers’ Notch is also a great spot for Vermont fall camping.
There are several campgrounds in the area that allow you to sleep under a canopy of colourful leaves and wake up to crisp autumn air.
It’s an unforgettable way to experience the fall in Vermont aesthetic up close and personal.
3. Burlington: Fall Colors with a Lakeside Twist
No Vermont fall getaway would be complete without a visit to Burlington, the state’s largest city. Situated on the shores of Lake Champlain, Burlington offers a unique perspective on fall foliage.
Here, you can enjoy the vibrant colours reflected in the calm waters of the lake, creating a mesmerizing double display of autumn beauty.
One of the best things to do in fall in Vermont is to take a stroll along Burlington’s waterfront. The tree-lined path offers stunning views of the Adirondack Mountains across the lake, their slopes adorned with fall colours.
For an even better vantage point, consider taking a fall foliage cruise on Lake Champlain. These boat tours offer a unique perspective on the changing leaves and are a relaxing way to enjoy the scenery.
Burlington is also an excellent base for day trips to explore more of Vermont’s fall foliage. You can easily embark on a Vermont fall day trip to nearby attractions like Shelburne Farms or Mount Philo State Park.
Both offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside painted in autumn hues. In the evening, return to Burlington to enjoy its vibrant food and craft beer scene.
The city’s restaurants often feature seasonal menus that showcase the best of Vermont’s fall harvest.
4. Woodstock: A Picture-Perfect Fall Destination
Woodstock is often described as one of the most beautiful small towns in America, and it truly shines in the fall, with peak foliage typically occurring in early to mid-October.
Best viewing spots:
- Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park: Offers miles of carriage roads and trails through colorful forests.
- Quechee Gorge: Known as “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon,” it provides stunning views of the fall foliage.
- Taftsville Covered Bridge: A picturesque spot for fall photography.
This quintessential New England village, with its covered bridges and historic buildings, provides a stunning backdrop for the changing leaves. It’s undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Vermont in fall.
A must-do activity in Woodstock is a visit to the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park.
This beautiful park features miles of trails that wind through forests and pastures, offering countless opportunities to immerse yourself in the fall colours. The park’s carriage roads are perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride among the colourful trees.
Another iconic spot for fall foliage viewing is the Middle-Covered Bridge in the center of town. The red bridge framed by golden leaves reflected in the Ottauquechee River below is a classic Vermont fall image.
It’s no wonder that Woodstock is a favourite destination for those seeking the perfect fall in Vermont aesthetic.
Woodstock is also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding countryside. Consider taking a scenic drive to nearby Quechee Gorge, known as “Vermont’s Little Grand Canyon.” The views of the gorge framed by fall foliage are truly spectacular.
5. Green Mountains: The Heart of Vermont’s Fall Foliage
No list of places to see fall foliage in Vermont would be complete without mentioning the Green Mountains. Offering peak foliage typically occurring from late September to mid-October, depending on elevation.
Best viewing spots:
- Mount Abraham: Hike to the summit for 360-degree views of the autumn landscape.
- Appalachian Gap: Drive along Route 17 for spectacular roadside vistas.
- Robert Frost Interpretive Trail: A gentle 1-mile loop featuring plaques with Frost’s poetry amidst the fall colours.
This mountain range runs through the center of the state and is the source of much of Vermont’s stunning fall scenery. The Green Mountains Vermont fall display is truly a sight to behold.
One of the best ways to experience the fall colours in the Green Mountains is to take a drive along Route 100.
This scenic highway runs the length of the state and passes through some of the most beautiful fall foliage areas. Along the way, you’ll pass charming small towns, covered bridges, and countless photo opportunities.
For a more immersive experience, consider hiking one of the many trails in the Green Mountain National Forest.
The Long Trail, which runs the length of Vermont, offers sections suitable for day hikes with stunning mountain views. Just be sure to bring warm layers, as temperatures can drop quickly in the mountains.
If you’re up for a real adventure, consider a Vermont road trip fall edition. Starting from Boston to Vermont, a fall road trip is a fantastic way to experience the changing colours across the region.
You’ll have the flexibility to stop wherever catches your eye and truly immerse yourself in the beauty of the season.
6. Northeast Kingdom: Off the Beaten Path Fall Beauty
The Northeast Kingdom offers a more secluded fall getaway in Vermont, with peak foliage typically occurring from late September to early October.
- Best viewing spots:
- Burke Mountain: Take the toll road or ski lift for panoramic views.
- Lake Willoughby: Often called the “Lucerne of America,” surrounded by vibrant autumn forests.
- Peacham: This picturesque town offers classic Vermont fall vistas.
Additional activities and attractions:
- Bike the Kingdom Trails, a world-class network of mountain biking trails.
- Visit the Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium in St. Johnsbury.
- Take a scenic train ride on the Hobo Railroad along the Connecticut River.
- Explore the Craftsbury Outdoor Center for hiking, biking, and paddling opportunities.
For a unique stay, book a room at the Wildflower Inn in Lyndonville or try glamping at Lopstick Lodge in Pittsburg, New Hampshire, just across the border.