Travel Vermont in the Fall – A Guide to Autumnal Splendor

Vermont in the fall transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors, drawing visitors from far and wide to its scenic landscapes. The air is crisp, and nature puts on a magnificent show, cloaking the rolling hills and valleys in shades of red, orange, and yellow.

Your journey through this northeastern kingdom becomes a feast for the eyes, a time when every turn in the road offers a new and stunning vista of foliage.

Nestled among these autumnal hues, the state brings together the perfect blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Whether it’s exploring the quiet charm of small towns, hiking through forested paths that reveal panoramic views, or simply enjoying the local harvest, there’s an abundance of ways to immerse yourself in the seasonal splendor. Vermont’s fall is not just a season; it’s an experience that encapsulates the heart of New England charm.

1) Scenic Route 100

Autumn’s tapestry waits for no one, and Vermont’s Route 100 is a canvas best viewed in the fall.” As you cruise along this 216.6-mile stretch, you’ll find yourself surrounded by vibrant foliage that transforms the Green Mountains into a spectacle of golden, amber, and crimson hues. Here’s what you should expect:

1. Charming Towns: Small, picturesque towns dot this route, inviting you to explore local shops and cozy eateries.
2. Natural Beauty: You’ll pass by rivers, waterfalls, and the lush Green Mountain National Forest.
3. Historic Sites: Visit landmarks and learn the stories that contribute to Vermont’s rich history.
4. Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of hiking trails or, if you’re visiting early in the season, enjoy the last of the warm-weather pursuits.

Remember to keep your camera at the ready, for the views are postcard-perfect at every turn. Take it slow; the drive is as much about the journey as it is the destination.

2) Smugglers’ Notch

As you plan your fall travel, consider Smugglers’ Notch in Vermont, a must-visit destination for its vibrant autumn colors. Nestled between Mount Mansfield and the Sterling Range, it’s a place where nature puts on a spectacular show, painting the landscape in hues of red, orange, and yellow. Reached via Route 108, this seasonal mountain pass is known for its stunning fall foliage, making it a top spot for leaf-peeping.

When you travel here in autumn, remember that Smugglers’ Notch is more than just a feast for the eyes. It’s steeped in history, once a smuggling route during Prohibition, and now offers a range of activities. From hiking trails that allow you to experience the crisp fall air and the rustling leaves underfoot to capturing the perfect photograph of the foliage, there’s something for everyone.

So, pack your warm clothes, grab your camera, and be ready to create memories in one of Vermont’s most beloved fall destinations.

3) Quechee Gorge

When you visit Vermont in the fall, Quechee Gorge is a spectacle you shouldn’t miss. Often referred to as Vermont’s “Little Grand Canyon”, the gorge offers breathtaking views during the autumn season. At 165 feet deep, the colors of the fall foliage reflect off the Ottauquechee River, creating a vibrant tapestry that is both a photographer’s dream and a nature lover’s paradise.

You can explore Quechee Gorge along a 2.7-mile out-and-back trail that is considered quite easy. It’s perfect for a leisurely hike to take in the panoramic vistas. Alongside hiking, Quechee State Park has facilities for camping and kayaking, allowing for a full day or even a weekend of outdoor activities surrounded by the natural beauty of Vermont’s changing leaves.

4) Shelburne Museum

Visiting the Shelburne Museum enriches your autumn in Vermont with a dash of culture and history. Nestled just south of Burlington, this expansive museum boasts a 45-acre campus with 39 distinctive buildings. 25 of these are historic and have been transplanted to the museum grounds. Perfect for a family outing, you’ll discover a vast collection of American art and design.

You might wander through the exhibits that span architectural, decorative, and fine arts. Envision carriages from the bygone era, marvel at the quilts with intricate designs, or view the paintings that reflect various periods. It’s not only an indoor adventure; the museum’s landscape showcases colorful fall foliage, creating a picturesque background for your visit.

The museum operates seasonally, May 11th to October 20th, ensuring you can plan your trip during the peak of fall’s vibrant display. Remember to check their official website before your visit, as hours and exhibits may change.

5) Stowe Recreation Path

The Stowe Recreation Path beckons you to experience Vermont’s autumn hues in a unique and engaging way. This 5.3-mile trail offers you a scenic ride, jog, or stroll among the changing leaves. Along the way, the path courses through vibrant meadows and over wooden bridges, revealing the serene Little River.

1. Visit the Cider Mill: En route, stop by the Cold Hollow Cider Mill for a taste of fresh apple cider.
2. Hiking: Embark on a hike as many trails intersect along the path.
3. Biking: Rent bikes for a leisurely ride, feeling the crisp fall air.
4. Photography: Capture stunning fall foliage and sweeping mountain vistas, perfect for your photo album.
5. Picnicking: Find a spot to enjoy a picnic with the view of autumnal colors.

Bring your camera and get ready to fill your senses—and your memory card—with the splendor of Stowe in fall.

6) Hubbard Park

Hubbard Park in Montpelier is a must-visit for you during the fall in Vermont. Spread over 200 acres, it offers you more than 7 miles of trails suitable for hiking or skiing. You can enjoy numerous picnic areas, two shelters, and a soccer field.

Besides these amenities, during mid-October, Hubbard Park transforms. It hosts the Enchanted Forest exhibit, which guides you on a festive path illuminated by jack-o-lanterns while showcasing a variety of art installations.

7) Ben & Jerry’s Factory

Visiting the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Vermont during fall should be on your list. Here are three reasons why:

1. Tours & Tastings: Discover how your favorite ice cream is made with a fun tour. Afterward, enjoy a sample of the sweet treat.
2. Flavor Graveyard: Pay respects to retired flavors at their quirky Flavor Graveyard.
3. Scenic Surroundings: Nestled in the mountains, the factory is a great spot to admire autumn’s colors.

Remember to check their schedule in advance. This way, you’ll be sure to catch a tour and taste some new or classic flavors on your visit. Bring your camera – the autumn backdrop is beautiful for photos!

8) Lake Champlain Ferries

Fall in Vermont is a spectacle of color, and a ferry ride on Lake Champlain offers you a unique vantage point. Since 1826, Lake Champlain Ferries have been transporting people across these waters. During your autumn visit, you can enjoy the brilliant foliage from a new perspective on one of these ferries.

1. Schedule and Pricing: Ferries run daily with affordable rates. Save 30% with a commuter card, a smart choice if you plan multiple crossings.

2. Starting Point: Your journey can start at 1 King Street Dock in Burlington, Vermont.

Remember, as part of your Vermont fall travels, a trip with Lake Champlain Ferries is not just transport, but an experience to cherish.

9) Mount Mansfield

As the leaves turn majestic hues of red and gold, Mount Mansfield invites you to experience Vermont’s highest peak during the fall season. Rising to 4,393 feet, this natural wonder is known for its stunning panoramic views.

• 1. Take a Hike: There are multiple trails available for all skill levels, with more than 40,000 visitors trekking to the summit each year.
• 2. Scenic Drives: The Toll Road offers an alternative, meandering through beautiful landscapes, open until mid-October.
• 3. Fall Foliage: Starting in late September, the vibrant autumn colors drape over the mountain, creating a breathtaking scene.

Before you embark, make sure to check the availability of the Toll Road and trail conditions. Expect an unforgettable journey through Vermont’s picturesque fall season at Mount Mansfield.

10) Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller NHP

Exploring Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park is a must when you visit Vermont in the fall. You can wander through a picturesque landscape that tells a tale of environmental care and community.

• 1. Amidst the kaleidoscope of fall colors, uncover the history of conservation at this park.
• 2. With trails leading you under the canopy of ancient sugar maples, you’ll find peace in the gentle rustling of autumn leaves.
• 3. Cross the iconic covered bridges and soak in the serene views alongside stone walls that evoke a sense of timeless wonder.

Your adventure helps continue the legacy of stewardship, connecting you deeply with the land. Your time in this park isn’t just a visit; it’s a step through the story of America’s environmental conservation efforts.

Why Visit Vermont in the Fall?

Autumn in Vermont presents a palette of colors and a variety of outdoor activities that capture the essence of the season.

Stunning Foliage

Vermont’s autumn is famous for its vivid display of fall foliage. Trees across the state burst into brilliant hues of red, orange, and yellow. For a truly scenic drive, you might explore Route 100, stretching over 200 miles with picturesque views of the changing leaves. Picture this: as you traverse the state, each turn presents a new vista, more stunning than the last.

1. Peak Colors: Typically, these vibrant colors start to appear in late September and peak in early to mid-October.
2. Best Viewing Spots: Consider visiting:
   • Alburgh Dunes State Park: It’s known for one of the largest sandy beaches on Lake Champlain and unique dunes.
   • Lookout Points: High elevation areas offer panoramic views stretching miles into the horizon.

Outdoor Activities

Autumn’s cool, crisp air makes it perfect for enjoying outdoor adventures. Whether it’s hiking, biking, or simply strolling through charming towns, you’re in for a treat.

• Hiking Trails: Lace up your boots and hit trails for all skill levels, surrounded by the natural beauty of fall.
• Biking Routes: Pedal your way through country roads draped in autumn colors.
• Festivals and Events: Harvest fairs, apple picking, and cider tasting at places like Cold Hollow Cider Mill are quintessential Vermont fall experiences.

By visiting Vermont in the fall, you immerse yourself in a season of natural splendor and engaging activities that make the most of the cooler weather and stunning landscapes.

Scenic Drives and Routes

Fall in Vermont transforms roads into vibrant channels of reds, oranges, and yellows. To truly cherish the grandeur, embark on these memorable paths.

Route 100

Also known as the state’s “Main Street,” Route 100 unfurls a tapestry of spectacular leafage. You can glimpse:

• The Bluebird Express Gondola at Okemo Mountain for aerial views.
• Quaint towns and local eateries dot the way, inviting restful breaks.

Insight: Tickets for the gondola are typically around $30 for adults, less for children, and complimentary for tots under five.

Green Mountain Byway

This route weaves through classic Vermont landscapes. Your journey will lead you to:

• Jamaica State Park and charming Weston Village.
• Historical treasures amplified by the autumn palette.

Pro-Tip: Allocate time for stops; every turn presents a new picture-perfect moment. Explore side roads for hidden vistas and stories.

Cultural and Historical Sites in Vermont During Fall

Vermont’s fall landscape provides an extraordinary backdrop for exploring its rich tapestry of cultural and historical offerings. From quaint historic villages that take you back in time to museums where the state’s stories are preserved, you’ll find a plethora of engaging sites to satisfy your cultural curiosity.

Historic Villages

Venture through Vermont’s scenic roads and you’ll discover charming villages where history is as palpable as the crisp autumn air.

• Wilmington: Nestled in the Deerfield Valley, Wilmington is a living postcard with its classic architecture and friendly atmosphere. Each year, visitors flock here for the Vermont Wine & Harvest Festival in September.
• Woodstock: Often named one of the prettiest small towns in America, Woodstock is not just picturesque but also carries a historical aura with its colonial homes and town green.

In each of these villages, historic landmarks pepper the streets, giving you a glimpse into the state’s rich past.

Museums and Galleries

Art enthusiasts and history buffs will find a wealth of knowledge in Vermont’s museums and galleries. Here are a couple you won’t want to miss:

• Shelburne Museum: Housing an extensive collection of Americana, folk art, and decorative pieces, this museum captures the spirit of the region.
• Hildene: Once the family home of Abraham Lincoln’s descendants, this estate now operates as a museum, offering insights into the life of the Lincoln family.

Each site offers a unique perspective on Vermont’s cultural heritage, making them must-visit destinations during your fall excursion.