Vermont is a dream destination in the fall. Imagine winding country roads lined with fiery red sugar maples, crisp air scented with apples, and covered bridges tucked between golden fields.

Every September through late October, this small New England state transforms into a canvas of breathtaking colors that attract leaf-peepers, photographers, and nature lovers from around the world.

But planning a fall trip to Vermont requires more than just showing up timing, locations, and experiences all matter if you want to capture the season at its peak. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about visiting Vermont in autumn, including when to go, how to get around, pro travel tips, and 10 unforgettable destinations you should not miss.

1. When Is the Best Time to Visit Vermont in the Fall?

The fall foliage season in Vermont typically runs from mid-September to late October. However, the exact timing depends on weather and elevation.

Late September: The Northeast Kingdom and higher elevations in the Green Mountains turn first. This is ideal if you want fiery reds and oranges at their brightest.
Early October: This is peak foliage season across most of Vermont. Towns like Stowe, Woodstock, and Manchester are glowing with color.
Mid to Late October: The foliage lingers in southern Vermont and valleys. Expect more golden tones mixed with harvest festival vibes.

🍁 Pro Tip: If you’re flexible, use Vermont’s official foliage tracker websites to monitor peak times. Booking accommodations early is crucial — hotels and inns sell out fast during fall weekends.

2. How to Get to Vermont in the Fall

Vermont is well-connected but still retains its quiet, rural charm. Depending on where you’re coming from, you have a few options:

By Car: The most popular way. Vermont’s scenic byways and backroads are perfect for leaf-peeping road trips. From Boston, it’s about a 3-hour drive; from New York City, 4.5–5 hours.
By Air: The main airport is Burlington International Airport (BTV), which connects to major U.S. hubs.
By Train/Bus: Amtrak’s Vermonter line runs from Washington D.C. to St. Albans, Vermont, with scenic views along the Connecticut River Valley. Greyhound and Megabus also connect Vermont with nearby states.

Pro Tip: Renting a car gives you the most freedom to explore hidden villages and scenic detours.

3. Travel Tips for Visiting Vermont in the Fall

Before we explore the top 10 locations, here are a few essential tips:

Book Early: Inns, bed-and-breakfasts, and cabins fill up months ahead during fall foliage.
Dress in Layers: Vermont’s fall weather can be unpredictable. Mornings may start at 40°F (4°C) and afternoons warm up to 65°F (18°C).
Get Up Early: Morning light makes colors pop, and roads are less crowded.
Plan for Slow Drives: Scenic routes like Route 100 are stunning but narrow and winding. Take your time.
Experience Local Food: Apple cider donuts, maple syrup, pumpkin treats, and Vermont cheese should all be on your must-eat list.

10 Best Places to Visit in Vermont in the Fall

Now let’s dive into the heart of this guide — the 10 locations that showcase Vermont’s autumn magic at its finest.

1. Stowe Vermont’s Fall Foliage Capital

If Vermont had a fall capital, it would be Stowe. Nestled at the foot of Mount Mansfield (the state’s tallest peak), this charming village is famous for its rolling hills, iconic white church steeple, and fiery autumn scenery.

Why Visit in Fall:

Drive or hike up Mount Mansfield for panoramic views of the foliage.
Take a scenic gondola ride at Stowe Mountain Resort to see fall colors from above.
Explore the town’s covered bridges, art galleries, and cider mills.

🍁 Pro Tip: The Stowe Recreation Path, a 5.3-mile trail, is one of the most photogenic places to enjoy fall foliage on foot or bike.

2. Woodstock – Quintessential Vermont Charm

Often called one of the most beautiful small towns in America, Woodstock is pure postcard perfection in the fall. Its covered bridges, rolling farmland, and colonial-style homes glow with autumn colors.

Why Visit in Fall:

Visit the Middle Covered Bridge, framed by brilliant foliage.
Explore Billings Farm & Museum, where you’ll find harvest activities and farm animals.
Wander through the quaint village green, lined with boutique shops and cafes.

🍁 Pro Tip: Stay in the historic Woodstock Inn & Resort for a cozy fall getaway.

3. Smugglers’ Notch – Scenic Mountain Pass

Located near Stowe, Smugglers’ Notch is a dramatic mountain pass carved through 1,000-foot cliffs. In fall, the narrow winding road surrounded by towering maples is simply jaw-dropping.

Why Visit in Fall:

Drive Route 108 (closed in winter) for a colorful and thrilling ride.
Stop at overlooks to capture sweeping views of the valley below.
Hike trails that weave through vibrant forests and rocky cliffs.

🍁 Pro Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid heavy traffic on this popular scenic route.

4. Manchester – Fall Colors Meets Luxury

Nestled in southern Vermont, Manchester blends natural beauty with upscale charm. Surrounded by the Taconic and Green Mountains, it’s a leaf-peeper’s paradise with a touch of luxury.

Why Visit in Fall:

Explore Equinox Mountain Scenic Byway for sweeping autumn views.
Wander through Manchester’s designer outlets and cozy bookstores.
Visit Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home, where historic gardens meet fall colors.

🍁 Pro Tip: The views from the Skyline Drive up Mount Equinox are some of the best in Vermont.

5. Burlington – Foliage by the Lake

Vermont’s largest city, Burlington, offers a unique mix of fall foliage and lakeside beauty along Lake Champlain.

Why Visit in Fall:

Stroll along the Burlington Waterfront Park with mountains and fiery colors in the distance.
Take a sunset cruise on Lake Champlain to see the foliage reflect on the water.
Visit the bustling Church Street Marketplace for local crafts and fall flavors.

🍁 Pro Tip: Combine Burlington with day trips to nearby Shelburne Farms, where you’ll find fall festivals, cheese tastings, and sweeping lake views.

6. The Northeast Kingdom – Untouched Autumn Wilderness

For a more remote, less crowded experience, head to Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom. This region offers rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and endless fall beauty.

Why Visit in Fall:

Drive the Lake Willoughby Scenic Byway, where cliffs and foliage surround the glacial lake.
Explore hiking trails in Willoughby State Forest.
Visit small villages like East Burke for authentic Vermont charm.

🍁 Pro Tip: This region changes color earlier than the rest of the state, making it perfect for late September trips.

7. Killington – Fall Adventures in the Green Mountains

Best known as a ski destination, Killington is equally spectacular in the fall. Nicknamed “The Beast of the East,” it offers adventure and scenic views.

Why Visit in Fall:

Ride the K-1 Express Gondola up Killington Peak (4,241 ft) for unbeatable fall vistas.
Try mountain biking or hiking among the foliage-covered slopes.
Enjoy autumn festivals and live music events in the village.

🍁 Pro Tip: Time your visit for the Killington Brewfest, which often takes place in early October.

8. Grafton – A Tiny Village with Big Autumn Charm

Step back in time in Grafton, one of Vermont’s prettiest small towns. Its historic buildings, quiet streets, and artisan shops come alive with color in the fall.

Why Visit in Fall:

Wander through the village lined with 19th-century buildings.
Visit the Grafton Village Cheese Company for local flavors.
Explore nearby hiking trails for peaceful leaf-peeping.

🍁 Pro Tip: Stay at the Grafton Inn, a historic inn dating back to 1801.

9. Montpelier – America’s Smallest State Capital

Montpelier may be the smallest U.S. state capital, but in the fall, it shines with golden maples surrounding its gold-domed State House.

Why Visit in Fall:

Walk the charming downtown filled with cafes, bookstores, and galleries.
Visit Hubbard Park for trails that overlook the city and foliage.
Photograph the Vermont State House framed by autumn colors.

🍁 Pro Tip: Montpelier is a great base for exploring nearby foliage drives, including Route 12 and Route 14.

10. Route 100 – Vermont’s Most Scenic Drive

If you only have time for one fall experience in Vermont, make it a drive down Route 100.

This 200-mile highway runs north to south through the heart of the Green Mountains, connecting many of the state’s top foliage destinations.

Why Visit in Fall:

Pass through iconic towns like Weston, Warren, and Ludlow.
Enjoy endless views of rolling hills, farms, and covered bridges.
Stop at roadside farm stands for maple products and cider donuts.

🍁 Pro Tip: Break the drive into sections and spend a few days exploring towns along the way for the full experience.

Final Thoughts: Why Vermont Is the Ultimate Fall Destination

Visiting Vermont in the fall isn’t just about chasing colors it’s about immersing yourself in the full autumn experience.

From sipping warm cider by a covered bridge to hiking trails carpeted in red leaves, every moment feels magical.

By planning your trip around peak foliage, exploring these 10 incredible locations, and embracing the local flavors, you’ll experience Vermont at its very best. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Vermont’s autumn charm never gets old.

So pack your camera, cozy sweaters, and an appetite for apple cider donuts and get ready for an unforgettable fall adventure in Vermont!