New England has the distinction of experiencing all four seasons spectacularly. Winter blankets the landscape in feet of fresh snow and spring brings budding flowers and new life, while summer comes with blue skies and beach days. But of all the seasons in the region, fall may be the best.
Autumn in New England brings about the perfect weather, festive fall activities (apple picking, hayrides, and more), and, of course, amazing foliage. If you want to take in everything the area has to offer this upcoming season, a trip to Vermont is just what you need.
Vermont fall foliage is some of the best out of all the states, and we’re here to let you in on some tips and tricks for timing so you can experience leaf-peeping at its peak.
What Makes Vermont Foliage So Special?
You might be wondering why making the drive up to The Green Mountain State is worth it during fall. After all, you can see changing leaves around New England and even in other parts of the country. But Vermont truly is the best.
Don’t just take our word for it. Even the experts agree that Vermont has the “perfect conditions for vibrant fall color.” It all comes down to a mix of trees and some of the highest proportion of maples, as well as the sweetness of the soil and moisture patterns only found in Vermont. The sugar maples, in particular, produce some of the most vibrant foliage in the autumn months. You will be able to see their lush green leaves transform into bright reds, oranges, and yellows as they have been doing for centuries in one of the most stunning natural displays of color ever found.
This combination of flora, ideal soil, and perfect weather conditions make foliage season in Vermont one you shouldn’t miss.
Vermont Foliage Facts
Like with anything, seeing the best Vermont fall foliage in the state is all about timing and location. Here are our tips for viewing peak foliage in Vermont:
Visit From Mid-September Through Mid-October
Foliage season in Vermont is surprisingly consistent when compared to other parts of the country. Naturally, the leaves change earlier in cooler climates and in the mountains, so you will find that Vermont fall foliage moves from north to south from mid-September to mid-October (what is widely accepted to be foliage season in the state).
In mid or late September, you should visit the northern reaches of the state and areas like Burlington and Lake Champlain. Then, in early October, Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom is a must-visit. A drive down the I-89 corridor through Stowe and beyond can be the best way to soak in all the Vermont foliage at its peak from north to south. This scenic drive also takes you through some of the state’s largest cities and towns as well as picturesque villages and lush woodlands, so there’ll be plenty of opportunities for shopping and picture taking along the way.
Don’t Miss a Fall Foliage Drive
While there are plenty of trails to hike that can place you right in the heart of the changing trees, a drive is perhaps the best way to take in peak foliage in Vermont. The state has many scenic drives that truly come to life during autumn, including Fall Foliage Central Vermont (between Hartford and Rutland) and Putney Road in eastern Vermont.
Driving gives you more flexibility to see the foliage in Vermont and even in neighboring states like New Hampshire and central Massachusetts (especially the Berkshires) that are also home to beautiful woods and fall activities the entire family will love. Plus, there are many rest areas and places to pull over on these scenic drives so you can snap the perfect photo of the changing leaves during your drive!
Where To See Peak Foliage Vermont
What makes leaf peeping in Vermont special is that there’s truly something for everyone. If you love being outdoors and hiking, travel one of the many trails in the Green Mountains to soak in the sights. Maybe you love being around water, and therefore a stay at Lake Champlain is ideal (and not to mention it’s stunning seeing the vibrant hues reflect off the calm lake). There’s also the chance to visit towns off the beaten path or stay close to bustling centers while still being surrounded by the beautiful fall foliage.
Some places you should consider staying to see fall colors in Vermont include:
- Ludlow
- Stowe
- Chittenden
- Dorset
- Woodstock
- Middlebury
- Lower Waterford
Of course, these aren’t the only places to stay in Vermont. Carve your own path and find a town or area that speaks to your fall fantasy!
Book Your Vermont Foliage Getaway
Ready to see some of the nation’s best leaf peeping for yourself? Vermont is home to many unique accommodations, spanning small B&Bs and inns to large resorts and lodges that give you the feel for what fall in New England is all about.
New England Inns & Resorts has properties in Vermont and throughout the region that are perfect for your fall foliage getaway. Book your stay today or head over to our blog for more seasonal inspiration and fun to do on your fall vacation!
