There is no better fall destination than Vermont. Between picturesque fall foliage, charming villages, everything apple, and maple syrup, Vermont will whisk you away to the fall landscape of your dreams. Visit a historic covered bridge, or take in the insanely gorgeous mountains blanketed with yellows, reds, and oranges, one thing is for sure, Vermont in the fall is sure to capture your heart. Keep reading for 22 epic things to do in Vermont in the fall.
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When To Visit Vermont For Fall Foliage
Vermont is s small state, but fall foliage varies from year to year in each region. Depending on your destination and what you are looking to see, you will want to visit the Green Mountain State sometime between late September and mid-October. For the best colors in Northern Vermont consider visiting in late September. If Mid-Vermont (think Woodstock and Stowe) is your intended destination, you will want to visit in early October. While Southern Vermont typically sees peak fall foliage toward mid-October.
Keep in mind that fall foliage in Vermont is not an exact science. The timing fluctuates from year to year. Make sure to check Vermont Fall Foliage trackers to see when peak foliage will be this year.
Tip: You will need to plan your fall trip to Vermont in advance due to it being high season, so it’s best to book a little earlier than the peak. It is absolutely better to see the foliage right before the peak than after when all the trees are bare.
The Best Town To Visit In Vermont In The Fall
You honestly can’t go wrong with Vermont in the fall, but these are a few of my favorite towns. You can read more about each of them here: Top 8 Towns To Visit In Vermont In Fall
- Stowe
- Wood Stock
- Manchester
- Grafton
- Brattleboro
- Peacham
- Waitsfield
- Burlington
15 Of The Best Things To Do In Vermont In The Fall
Let’s jump into talking about all of the picturesque towns, and fantastic fall things to do…
1. Drive Route 100
One of the most famous scenic fall foliage drives in all of New England is the iconic Route 100 in Vermont. This stunning drive spans over 200 miles and runs right through the middle of the Green Mountain State. During this drive, you can enjoy all of the best foliage scenery that Vermont has to offer, as you cut through some of the best towns to visit in Vermont during the fall.
If you start your Route 100 drive in Wilmington, Vermont, there are several charming small villages that you can stop in:
- Weston – home of the Vermont Country Store
- Killington
- Moss Glen Falls
- Waterbury Village Historic District – eat at Prohibition Pig
- Stowe
Driving the entire route only takes around 3 hours without stopping. You can easily make this a day trip or turn it into a long weekend adventure!
2. Take A Drive Through Smugglers Notch
Just a few minutes outside of the charming village of Stowe, you will find the scenic Smugglers Notch State Park. There are several hikes throughout the park but honestly, one of the best ways to take in the beautiful is to take the scenic drive in the fall foliage. In fact, the road that runs through the park is free, and by early October (most years) the notch will be blanketed with epic fall colors, making it magical.
The drive through Smugglers Notch runs along Route 108, and is only about 3.5 miles long one-way, which connects Stowe to Cambridge. This is a can’t-miss drive if you want to see fall colors. Make sure to use caution during the drive, as there are a few hairpin turns, but otherwise, just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
3. After Driving The Notch – Explore Stowe
Stowe is the quintessential Vermont destination during the fall season. Keep in mind that Stowe is one of the most popular towns to visit in the state, but don’t let that stop you from visiting – it’s one that’s 100% worth the effort. This is the place to see some of the best fall foliage in all of New England.
Stowe’s village is charming, with a wonderfully quaint general store, cafés where you can sip coffee or apple drinks, and amazing boutiques. Main Street is also where you will find the iconic white steepled church that you have seen in almost all fall-in New England photos.
The village is also home to some amazing cideries and breweries including Stowe Cidery, and The Alchemist Brewery, which is one of the best craft breweries in Vermont.
Tip: If you are driving through the state you will most likely be passing Waterbury where you will find the Ben & Jerry’s Factory, Cold Hollow Cider Mill, and the Cabot Cheese Farmer’s Store. These are all can’t miss, and Cold Hollow has some of the best apple cider donuts in the state.
For more on the town check out: Stowe, Vermont: A Charming New England Fall Day Trip
4. Check Out Emily’s Bridge – It’s Haunted!
You can’t leave Stowe, without stopping at Emily’s Covered Bridge! Legend has it, that the bridge is haunted. For an extra dose of creepy visit just after sunset.
Legend suggests that a young woman named Emily hung herself from the bridge when her lover never showed up to elope, and the bridge has been haunted ever since. Visitors claim there have been strange scratches found on their car after driving over the bridge, or of hearing a woman’s voice screaming.
Keep in mind that this is a working covered bridge, and there will be local traffic crossing the bridge at all times. Be careful to respect the local traffic and to not walk across the bridge when it’s busy. There are a few parking spaces on the side of
Covered Bridge Road, if you want to get out and explore.
To be clear, there is no confirmation or historical account that a young woman died on the bridge. BUT isn’t that a fun element to add to your fall trip to Vermont?
5. Take A Ride The Stowe Gondola SkyRide
Mount Mansfield is home to the tallest peak in Vermont, Mount Mansfield. The Stowe Gondola Skyride whisks you over the brilliantly colored treetops to the summit of Mount Mansfield.
You will find the Stowe Gondola Skyride right along the Smugglers Notch drive, making it possible to do them together. The gondola only takes around 15 minutes each way (a 30-minute trip). Once you reach the summit, you will be rewarded with absolutely breathtaking views of vibrant mountain vistas. At the top, you’ll also have access to a few restaurants, make sure to try the fun little waffle place if you’ve got the time and the appetite.
Tip: The Stowe Gondola only runs through mid-October due to that being peak foliage in the area. You can purchase tickets in advance online to ensure you will be able to take the gondola to the summit.
6. Visit The Charming Cold Hollow Cider Mill
Cold Hollow Cider Mill offers some of the best cider donuts and an adorable country store where you can shop til’ you drop! Bear in mind, that this is an incredibly popular stop for fall visitors to Vermont. Cold Hollow makes their own cider donuts, and to say they’ve perfected the cider donut is an understatement. You can also get warm or cold cider to drink or for something a bit different try their apple cider slushies. The store offers all kinds of local goods and wares including apparel, and food.
If you are looking for some hard cider in the area, check out Cold Hollow Cidery, which is their cozy hard cider tasting room. In the same building as the tasting room, you can also visit the café, which offers a delicious lunch menu complete with ciders on tap to enjoy with your meal. Not sure what to try? Get a flight so that you can try a variety of ciders.
For more can’t miss Vermont Fall activities check out: Vermont Fall Bucket List
7. Try A Maple Creemee – A Vermont Classic
A Vermont classic and undeniably one of the best treats the state has to offer is the famous maple creemee. Essentially, this delicious, sweet treat is a maple-infused soft-serve ice cream, and it is particularly satisfying in the fall with all the other warm and spiced flavors of the season.
Vermont has perfected the art of the maple creemee, after all, it is the home to the best maple syrup in the U.S. You really can’t go wrong when it comes to a maple creemee, but here are a few places that whip up some of the best:
- Woodstock Scoops in Woodstock
- Creemees Ice Cream in Burlington
- Canteen Creemee Company in Waitsfield
8. Wander The Streets Of Charming Woodstock
If you are looking for Gilmore Girls meets Practical Magic meets Hallmark, then Woodstock is the perfect town for you. 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!
Woodstock has some unique shops, stop by Mon Vert and grab a coffee before your downtown stroll. Stop in the fantastic general store or Woody’s Mercantile. Make sure to visit one of the covered bridges including the Middle Covered Bridge, or Lincoln Covered Bridge and Taftsbury Covered Bridge just outside of town.
9. Try All The Seasonal Craft Beers
Fall has some of the absolute best seasonal flavors, so why not savor those fall flavors of the season at a few craft breweries? Whether you are into pumpkin, apple, or a seasonal fall lager, Vermont has a craft beer for everyone. There are tons of great craft breweries to choose from, but here are a few local favorites to check out:
- Hill Farmstead Brewery in Greensboro Bend – Try Ann
- Frost Beer Works in Hinesburg – Try Lush
- Alchemist Beer in Stowe – Try Focal Banger
- Fiddlehead Brewing in Shelburne – Try Second Fiddle
- Von Trapp Brewing in Stowe – Try Bohemian Pilsner
10. Explore The Great Vermont Corn Maze
Do you love corn mazes? The largest corn maze in all of New England is in Vermont. Located in Danville, the Great Vermont Corn Maze is a fall tradition that is so much fun. The maze spans over 24 acres, but if you are not up for the challenge, you can choose the Scenic Maze option instead. The scenic maze is a designated section within the big maze that doesn’t take quite as long to wander through
Keep in mind that the Great Vermont Corn Maze is only open through mid-October, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly if you want to visit.
11. Take A Stunning Fall Foliage Hike
Vermont has so many fantastic hikes no matter the time of year, but the foliage really adds a unique perspective to Vermont’s beautiful mountains. Whether you are looking for an easy stroll or a challenging trek, the Green Mountain State has you covered. Scenic hikes are truly some of the best ways to explore the beauty of Vermont in the fall. Here are a few of the best hikes to do in the fall in Vermont:
Camel’s Hump Trail in Waterbury
- Distance: 6 miles
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Elevation Gain: 2,588 ft
- Dog Friendly
Owl’s Head Mountain Trail in Marshfield
- Distance: 4 miles
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 538 ft
- Dog Friendly
Stowe Pinnacle Trail in Stowe
- Distance: 3.1 miles
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Elevation Gain: 1,561 ft
- Dog Friendly
Deer Leap Overlook Trail in Killington
- Distance: 2 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 511 ft
- Dog Friendly
12. Maple Syrup (‘nough Said)
Vermont is pretty synonymous with amazing maple syrup. You’ve got to try as many different maple syrups as you can. One of the best places to do this is at Sugarbush Farms in Woodstock. Not only is the location idyllic and completely surrounded by beautiful mountain views that dazzle during the foliage season. Bonus: Sugarbush Farms also make their own cheese!
You will see sugar shacks and maple syrup stands all over the state, and honestly, you can’t go wrong! Stop and sample as many as you can! Outside of Stowe stop by the Stowe Maple Products stand and grab some amazing maple goodness!
13. Go Pick Some Apple
Is there any greater fall activity than apple picking? No. And Vermont is a wonderful place for some good old-fashioned apple picking. There are some charming orchards to explore that offer both juicy apples and stunning fall foliage views. A local favorite is Mad Tom Orchard, in Dorset, the orchard’s backdrop is the Green Mountains, whatever you do, don’t miss their cider donuts.
Another Vermont favorite is Shelburne Orchards where they also make their own delicious cider donuts, make sure to stock up when you visit! You won’t find a shortage of charming orchards in Vermont, so keep an eye out while driving around!
14. Wander The Quaint Streets Of Manchester
Manchester is a great town to visit during the fall season, and you will find it extra charming while surrounded by dazzling fall reds and yellows. Whether you want to hit the outlet shops, browse the unique independent shops, and wonderful eateries, or get outdoors and enjoy fall foliage – Manchester is perfect for you. Make sure to check out the cozy Northshire Bookstore that offers an amazing variety of books and unique gifts and wares.
15. Marvel At The 100-Mile Overlook
In Marlboro, you will find the hidden gen, 100-mile Overlook. This scenic area is located behind the Hogback Mountain Gift Shop and offers incredible views. You can see over 100 miles on a clear day, and during the fall season, you can see over 100 miles of stunning fall foliage. Make sure to stop by the gift shop on your way out to find fun Vermont souvenirs.
A Few Tips For Visiting Vermont In The Fall
- Book in advance & expect soaring prices Fall is one of the most expensive times to visit Vermont, and it will be hard to make a fall visit budget-friendly (not impossible but difficult). You will want to book your hotel and restaurant reservations in advance to make sure you get the best options.
- Prepare for crowds Fall is one of the most popular times to visit Vermont, so you can expect crowds at the popular attractions. The most beautiful places to see, like Stowe, Woodstock, etc. are incredibly popular, but worth braving the crowds. Don’t let this stop you from having an amazing time.
- It might (will probably) rain You should expect rain to happen during at least some on your trip, plan accordingly. The fall season begins to bring more days of rain than the summer. Just have a few indoor options in mind.
- No Cell Signal Due to the more remote nature of the state, cell phone signal is spotty at best. It’s a good idea to not rely solely on the cell signal during your trip to Vermont. Before your trip, be sure to download some offline maps so you have a backup if you lose service.
Vermont Fall Packing List
- Waterproof hiking boots/Rain boots
- Hiking leggings, Hiking Sweatshirt
- Fall boots for walking around the towns
- Layers! Like this shirt or this one
- Short-sleeved t-shirts (2)
- Sweaters/Shacket/Cardigan (3)
- Light jacket, hat, beanie, and a scarf
- Jeans are perfect for everyone (2)
- Most restaurants in Vermont are casual. Jeans and a nice top
- Day pack for hiking or day trips
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera! Extra Lenses, Charger, Extra Batteries, Extra Memory Card
Need a packing checklist? I’ve got you covered…
There you have it – everything you need to know to have the perfect fall trip to Vermont. Have you been to Vermont in the fall? What was your favorite part?
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