Vermont's Best Spots for Fall Foliage

As the air turns crisp and the days grow shorter, Vermont transforms into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and golds. If you're planning a trip to witness this stunning spectacle, you're in the right place. Vermont, with its rolling hills and picturesque villages, offers some of the most breathtaking fall foliage in the country.

But with so many scenic routes and charming towns, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. Fear not, as we've compiled a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your fall foliage adventure in Vermont.

Northern Vermont: The Crown of New England

Kickstart your journey in the north, where the Green Mountains reach their highest peaks. This region is known for its stunning panoramic views and vibrant foliage.

Vermont's northernmost county, Orleans, is home to some of the state's most iconic fall foliage spots.

Stowe Mountain Resort

Stowe, often referred to as the "Ski Capital of the East," offers more than just winter fun. In fall, the mountain transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors. Take the scenic gondola ride up Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak, for a bird's-eye view of the foliage.

Back on the ground, explore the charming village of Stowe, where you'll find quaint shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes.

Smugglers' Notch State Park

Venture off the beaten path to Smugglers' Notch, a picturesque pass between Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak. This state park offers hiking trails with stunning foliage views, as well as camping facilities if you want to extend your stay.

Don't miss the chance to explore the historic village of Jeffersonville, located just outside the park. It's a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities.

Central Vermont: The Heart of the Green Mountains

Head south to central Vermont, where the Green Mountains form a backbone through the region. This area is rich in history, culture, and, of course, fall foliage.

Waterbury, located at the intersection of Interstates 89 and 100, is an ideal base for exploring central Vermont.

Waterbury and the Green Mountain Byway

Start your central Vermont adventure in Waterbury, a town known for its vibrant arts scene and delicious craft breweries. From here, follow the Green Mountain Byway, a scenic route that winds through the heart of the Green Mountains.

Along the way, you'll pass through charming towns like Duxbury, where you can stop at the Duxbury Vermont Country Store for a taste of small-town America. Don't miss the chance to hike up to the summit of Mount Abraham for a panoramic view of the foliage.

Montpelier and the Vermont State House

Venture east to Montpelier, Vermont's capital city. This progressive town is home to the Vermont State House, a stunning Greek Revival building that's worth a visit any time of year, but especially in fall when the foliage frames its grand columns.

Explore the city's vibrant arts scene, visit the Vermont History Museum, or simply stroll through the downtown area, where you'll find plenty of independent shops and restaurants.

Southern Vermont: The Green Mountain Gateway

As you make your way south, the Green Mountains begin to slope down towards Massachusetts. This region is known for its historic villages, picturesque farms, and, of course, stunning fall foliage.

Bennington, located at the southern tip of Vermont, is a great starting point for exploring this region.

Bennington and the Vermont Covered Bridge Museum

Bennington is home to the Robert Frost Stone House Museum and the Bennington Museum, both worth visiting for their insights into Vermont's literary and artistic heritage. But the real star of the show is the Vermont Covered Bridge Museum, which celebrates the state's rich covered bridge history.

From Bennington, follow the scenic Route 7A north, where you'll pass by several of Vermont's iconic covered bridges, each one a perfect frame for the fall foliage.

Manchester and the Equinox Mountain Resort

Manchester, nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains, is a charming town known for its historic homes, vibrant arts scene, and excellent dining options. It's the perfect place to base yourself as you explore the region's fall foliage.

Head up to the Equinox Mountain Resort for a panoramic view of the foliage. The resort's Mount Equinox Skyline Drive offers a scenic route to the summit, where you can enjoy a meal at the resort's restaurant or simply take in the view.

As your fall foliage adventure in Vermont comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on the stunning beauty you've witnessed. But don't let the memories fade. Start planning your next trip to Vermont, where there's always more to explore, more to discover, and more fall foliage to marvel at.