Please note that many establishments throughout New England have modified their hours and/or operations in response to COVID-19. Always check for the latest information before making travel plans.
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.
Vintage red truck along Ridge Road, Cornwall, VT
Corey Hendrickson
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.
Learn more about finding peak color in New England in the 2018 Yankee feature “Peak Perfection.”
Best Vermont Fall Foliage Towns
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 missThe 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 theprettiest fall foliage villages in Vermont.
The Vergennes-to-Montpelier road trip includes a stop at the top of Appalachian Gap.
Corey Hendrickson
Best Vermont Fall Foliage Drives
Vergennes to Montpelier
Yankeehas 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.
Route 100
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, soyou 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 famousVermont Country Storein Weston, ice cream samples at thein Waterbury, and just about everything in the mountain resort town ofStowe.
Learn more about our favorite fall routes in the 2014 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.
The Vermont Country Store in Rockingham.
Ian Aldrich
Best Vermont Fall Attractions
Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin’ Festival | September 26, 2021
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
FAQs
What is the best time to see fall foliage in Vermont? ›
Typically, the fullest color can be found from late-September in the north, through mid-October in the south. Many experienced foliage viewers actually consider late October to be the most beautiful time in Vermont. Once the most brilliant colors have passed, the hills take on a subtler and richer range of hues.
Are the leaves changing yet in Vermont? ›The best time to see foliage is typically between mid-September and late October, though there is no "perfect" time for viewing the colors. While foliage season typically runs between mid-September and late October, it can be difficult to determine when the best mountainside views will occur.
Can you see fall foliage in November in Vermont? ›Explore Burlington, Vermont in the Fall
Colors start to turn in mid-October around Burlington and you will likely see beautiful fall foliage into early November.
New England leaf peeping is at its finest in Vermont, where wilderness covers 75 percent of the land. Surrounded by more maple trees than anywhere else in the region, you'll find the brightest of yellows, oranges, and reds on nearly every highway and country road.
What is the best time to visit Vermont? ›That's why the best time to visit Vermont is the fall, between September and November! This time of year, the average temperature is between 46°F and 69°F, making for beautiful weather. There's usually not a lot of rain in the fall, but there are crisp winds. Truthfully, it's the perfect sweater weather in New England.
Is Vermont worth visiting? ›Perched within the gorgeous northeast United States, Vermont is a stunning state to explore. With centuries of history, rural idyls and a heap of quaint little villages, it's the kind of place that's brimming with places to visit.
Why are the leaves changing color so early 2022? ›Experts say during a drier season, leaves tend to turn colors earlier and will end the process quicker than in years with more precipitation.
How long do fall colors stay at peak? ›Leaves can change their color from as early as mid-September all the way through early November. Typically, the second and third week of October are the peak times, but it shifts depending on where you live and your local weather conditions.
Is Vermont Pretty in November? ›Yes, the days are short and the weather turns cold in November. But there's something really beautiful about the stark landscape and contrast of colors that I never appreciated before. Now I embrace the fallen leaves, chilly air and bare trees.
What do people wear in Vermont in November? ›- Wearing multiple layers. Wear a base layer, an insulating layer, and an outer shell layer.
- Wearing waterproof boots or shoes. Wet feet = unhappy student.
- Wearing a hat and gloves/mittens outside.
- Taking off some of your layers when you go inside to avoid sweating.
Does it snow in Vermont in November? ›
...
Northern Vermont.
| Days | 4.6 |
|---|---|
| Place | Burlington |
| Inches | 5.7 |
| Centimetres | 14.5 |
Daily Service between New York City and Burlington, Vermont, by way of Albany.
What is the best time to see the fall colors in New England? ›Foliage conditions vary each year due to that year's weather and other factors. However, in general, you can expect to see fall foliage in New England from early/mid-September through the end of October. Peak foliage, when the leaves are at their best and brightest of the season, typically hits in early to mid October.
Where is the peak foliage in New England? ›Peak fall foliage is expected to hit the northern region of New England in Maine and upper parts of New Hampshire and Vermont in late September and last through part of October.
What is the best time to see fall colors in New Hampshire? ›Exactly when fall colors "peak" (aka are at their most colorful) changes a bit each year, but the approximate time frame for New Hampshire is almost always early to mid October. Be sure to keep checking Visit New Hampshire's Foliage Tracker and Foliage Reports to estimate when the colors will be at their best!
How cold is Vermont in November? ›Daily high temperatures decrease by 12°F, from 50°F to 37°F, rarely falling below 25°F or exceeding 63°F. Daily low temperatures decrease by 10°F, from 34°F to 24°F, rarely falling below 9°F or exceeding 46°F.
What is the average temperature in Vermont in October? ›The climate is fairly cold in this location the month of october, but it is bearable by dressing warm. Temperatures are up to 56°F. The seasonal minimum is 43°F. Thus, the mean temperature average in october in Vermont is 49°F.
Is Vermont pretty in the fall? ›Vermont's fall foliage beckons travelers from across the globe, and rightfully so: Three-quarters of the state are covered in forest, and it has the highest concentration of maple trees in the country (these are the ones that erupt in color).
What is the weather like in Vermont in early October? ›October Weather in Burlington Vermont, United States. Daily high temperatures decrease by 12°F, from 64°F to 52°F, rarely falling below 41°F or exceeding 75°F. Daily low temperatures decrease by 10°F, from 48°F to 38°F, rarely falling below 27°F or exceeding 58°F.
What do you wear leaf peeping with? ›You'll appreciate a fleece jacket, convertible gloves and a hat to protect your face. A nice comfy fleece jacket is certainly a great bet while early-morning hiking or leaf peeping.
What should I bring to Stowe Vt? ›
...
Stowe has some excellent ski areas If you plan to ski, we would suggest:
- day pack.
- mittens (in addition to gloves)
- thermal pants.
- lip balm with SPF.
- ski socks (at least 2 pairs)
- ...and of course your ski gear.
...
Northern Vermont.
| Days | 13 |
|---|---|
| Place | Burlington |
| Inches | 3.8 |
| Millimetres | 97 |
Vermont is known for foods like Vermont cheddar cheese, maple syrup and the ever-popular Ben and Jerry's ice cream. It is also home to many farms, artisan foods, fresh produce, wineries and breweries. Find local products at Vermont Farmers' Markets and farm stands in all seasons.
Is Vermont better than NH? ›In terms of mountains, you'll certainly find both in either state. However, when it comes to the most mountains and lush greenery, the better bet is Vermont. It's not so much the fact that Vermont has more of it as much as it's the fact that many of the state's lands still remain undeveloped.
What is the IT color for fall 2022? ›The color trends range from bright colors like illuminating yellow and bright red to neutral hues like beige and gray. The must-have nuance will be green in the bright and lush “lawn” variant and in the more sober and refined “olive” shade.
Why is foliage late this year? ›The effects of climate change
Ober said, can be seen in a few ways: The height of leaf-peeping season is arriving later and sticking around for a shorter period of time. “Due to warmer weather, the growing season of broadleaf trees in the Northeast and out West is being extended,” he said.
From beloved state and national parks to unique and beautiful drives, California has just about everything you could want on your fall foliage tour. Peak Foliage Time: Northern and Higher Elevation Zones: Mid-September until mid-October. Southern and Lower Elevation Zones: Late October until late November.
Where is the best fall foliage in October? ›- Green Mountain Byway, Vermont.
- Gatlinburg & Smoky Mountains, Tennessee.
- Poconos, Pennsylvania.
- Taos, New Mexico.
- Ozark Mountains, Arkansas.
- Brooklyn Botanical Garden, New York.
- Cape Cod & Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts.
- Napa Valley, California.
Mitchell, and Waterrock Knob) change in late September/ early October. Mid-October provides good color along most of the Parkway and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including Boone and Blowing Rock in NC and Wytheville and Fancy Gap in VA.
How long does fall foliage last in New England? ›It's still early — fall colors haven't peaked anywhere in New England yet. A map showing the fall foliage report across New England as of Monday, Oct. 3, 2022. Bright fall colors are enhanced by warm, sunny days and crisp, cool nights, with the peak running from late September into November.
What state has the longest fall season? ›
Connecticut boasts the longest-lasting fall foliage season.
Connecticut may be the third-smallest state in the US by square miles, but it's the state with the longest-lasting fall foliage season, making for captivating views at just about every corner.
- Make it to the top of Mount Mansfield, Vermont's Highest Peak. ...
- Take a Factory Tour of Ben & Jerry's. ...
- Visit the Infamous Cold Hollow Cider Mill. ...
- Zip Tour Adventure. ...
- Sip on a Local Beer at a Nearby Brewery. ...
- Discover our historic covered bridges.
That's why the best time to visit Vermont is the fall, between September and November! This time of year, the average temperature is between 46°F and 69°F, making for beautiful weather. There's usually not a lot of rain in the fall, but there are crisp winds. Truthfully, it's the perfect sweater weather in New England.
What is peak leaf season in New England? ›Fall colors typically peak during October in most of New England, and it's big business. Millions of autumn visitors from around the country and the world bring in billions of dollars.
When should I go to Vermont? ›Although this state is never out of season, the best time to visit Vermont (and find the best weather) is in May/June or September/October. Late spring and early summer bring you maple syrup, moderate crowds, and the Vermont City Marathon.
How cold is Vermont in November? ›Daily high temperatures decrease by 12°F, from 50°F to 37°F, rarely falling below 25°F or exceeding 63°F. Daily low temperatures decrease by 10°F, from 34°F to 24°F, rarely falling below 9°F or exceeding 46°F.
What is the average temperature in Vermont in October? ›The climate is fairly cold in this location the month of october, but it is bearable by dressing warm. Temperatures are up to 56°F. The seasonal minimum is 43°F. Thus, the mean temperature average in october in Vermont is 49°F.
What is the best time to see the fall colors in New England? ›Foliage conditions vary each year due to that year's weather and other factors. However, in general, you can expect to see fall foliage in New England from early/mid-September through the end of October. Peak foliage, when the leaves are at their best and brightest of the season, typically hits in early to mid October.
Why are the leaves changing color so early 2022? ›Experts say during a drier season, leaves tend to turn colors earlier and will end the process quicker than in years with more precipitation.
How long do fall colors stay at peak? ›Leaves can change their color from as early as mid-September all the way through early November. Typically, the second and third week of October are the peak times, but it shifts depending on where you live and your local weather conditions.
What month does it snow in Vermont? ›
Winter generally begins sometime in late November, although snow has been known to fall sometimes as early as Halloween! The snow will typically last through March and sometimes on into the beginning of April. Springtime is also sometimes affectionately known as "Mud Season" due to all the melting snow.
Is Vermont Pretty in November? ›Yes, the days are short and the weather turns cold in November. But there's something really beautiful about the stark landscape and contrast of colors that I never appreciated before. Now I embrace the fallen leaves, chilly air and bare trees.
Is Vermont worth visiting? ›Perched within the gorgeous northeast United States, Vermont is a stunning state to explore. With centuries of history, rural idyls and a heap of quaint little villages, it's the kind of place that's brimming with places to visit.
Where is the best fall foliage in October? ›- Green Mountain Byway, Vermont.
- Gatlinburg & Smoky Mountains, Tennessee.
- Poconos, Pennsylvania.
- Taos, New Mexico.
- Ozark Mountains, Arkansas.
- Brooklyn Botanical Garden, New York.
- Cape Cod & Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts.
- Napa Valley, California.
Connecticut boasts the longest-lasting fall foliage season.
Connecticut may be the third-smallest state in the US by square miles, but it's the state with the longest-lasting fall foliage season, making for captivating views at just about every corner.