This post is about the best places to visit in Vermont for fall foliage.
During the fall season, the Green Mountain State becomes one of the most beautiful destinations in the entire country. Vermont’s mountain peaks, historic small towns, scenic routes, and charming general stores make it a perfect place to experience peak foliage. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape from New York City, a scenic day trip from New Hampshire, or a full Vermont road trip, the colors, crisp air, and cozy fall vibes make it unforgettable. Below are some of the best places to see fall foliage in Vermont, as well as best ways to plan your trip.
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Know Before You Go
Book early: Hotels, Airbnbs, and inns sell out fast during foliage season.
Layer up: Mornings are chilly, and afternoons warm — perfect for cozy fall outfits.
Mind the parking lot signs at popular stops like Sleepy Hollow Farm.
Respect the land: Many favorite things to photograph, like farms and barns, are on private property.
Add a stop at Ben & Jerry’s in Waterbury and visit the Flavor Graveyard — a fun fall detour!
Best Time to Go
The fall foliage season in Vermont typically runs from late September to mid-October, with peak foliage occurring earlier in the north and higher elevations.
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The Northeast Kingdom, including towns like St. Johnsbury and East Burke, usually see color by the last week of September.
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More southern towns like Grafton, Brattleboro, and Manchester reach their peak by early to mid-October.
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For the most vibrant leaves and fewer crowds, consider planning your fall road trip during the first two weeks of October.
Check Vermont’s official fall foliage reports, and book accommodations early, especially in the most popular towns like Stowe, Woodstock, and Manchester.
Best Places to Visit in Vermont for Fall Foliage
1. Stowe – Scenic Views & Small Town Charm
Stowe is a great spot for leaf-peeping — and for good reason. Surrounded by the Green Mountain Range, with the highest peak in Vermont (Mount Mansfield), this small town is filled with fall magic.
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Ride the Gondola SkyRide to the top of Mount Mansfield for some of the best views in the United States.
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Take a scenic drive through Smuggler’s Notch, one of the best things to do in Vermont in the fall.
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Visit the Trapp Family Lodge, which combines Austrian elegance with spectacular scenery.
Don’t forget to stop by Cold Hollow Cider Mill for fresh apple cider, maple syrup, and a taste of their famous maple creemees.
2. Woodstock – A Picture-Perfect Fall Destination
Woodstock is often called one of the most beautiful small towns in America, and it’s a favorite spot for fall foliage season. With historic buildings, covered bridges, and farms tucked into the hills, it feels like stepping into a postcard.
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Visit Sleepy Hollow Farm, a viral social media favorite.
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Take a short walk around Billings Farm & Museum or hike Mount Tom for panoramic views.
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Explore Quechee State Park and the Quechee Gorge, a deep ravine surrounded by blazing autumn colors.
Woodstock is also near the iconic Vermont Country Store, making it a great stop for local treats, souvenirs, and everything cozy.
3. Manchester – Scenic Drives & Outdoor Adventures
Located in southern Vermont, Manchester offers upscale shops, quaint main streets, and plenty of outdoor activities during the fall season.
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Drive the Mount Equinox Skyline Drive, one of the best scenic routes in Vermont.
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Visit Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home, which is especially beautiful when framed by changing leaves.
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Browse farmers markets, dine on local fare, and enjoy a relaxing walk downtown.
Manchester’s easy access from the New York City area makes it a great place for a short drive fall weekend getaway.
4. Northeast Kingdom – Hidden Gem Foliage Views
If you’re looking to escape the crowds and dive into Vermont’s wild side, head to the Northeast Kingdom. This region near the Canadian border is remote and unspoiled — ideal for an authentic foliage experience.
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Explore Lake Willoughby, often called Vermont’s fjord, surrounded by towering cliffs and blazing trees.
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Visit East Burke and hike around Burke Mountain.
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Drive Route 114 or explore the trails around St. Johnsbury for peaceful color-filled vistas.
The Northeast Kingdom is also a great region for visiting Vermont farms, finding a cozy general store, and enjoying laid-back outdoor adventures.
5. Route 100 – The Ultimate Vermont Foliage Road Trip
Stretching nearly the entire length of the state, Route 100 is one of the best ways to see fall color in Vermont. It passes through favorite places like Stowe, Killington, and Waterbury, making it perfect for a leaf-peeping loop.
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Stop in Weston to visit the Vermont Country Store.
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Grab apple cider donuts and ice cream at Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury.
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Catch a performance or special event in Mad River Valley, surrounded by fiery leaves.
This drive also offers easy access to many hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and great things to do in the fall.
6. Montpelier – Vermont’s Cozy Capital City
As the capital city of Vermont, Montpelier may be small, but it’s packed with charm and color during the fall season.
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Hike through Hubbard Park for views from the stone tower.
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Stroll Church Street and check out local bookstores, coffee shops, and fall menus.
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Explore historic sites, or visit during a farmers market weekend.
This great place offers all the classic Vermont vibes, with easy access to nearby trails and scenic drives.
7. Killington – Colorful Peaks & Outdoor Activities
Better known as a ski resort, Killington comes alive in fall with panoramic views and forested trails.
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Ride the K-1 Gondola to the top of Killington Peak, part of the Green Mountain Range.
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Hike a section of the Long Trail, Vermont’s famous long-distance hiking path.
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Visit nearby towns like Bridgewater Corners for breweries and general stores.
If you love outdoor adventures, this is a perfect place to experience the crisp fall air and best fall color.
8. Brattleboro – Artsy Vibes & River Views
In southeastern Vermont, Brattleboro blends creative spirit with natural beauty. It’s a great stop if you’re crossing over from New Hampshire or Massachusetts.
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Climb Mount Wantastiquet for a short hike with sweeping views.
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Visit the Brattleboro Farmers Market for handmade goods and local treats.
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Enjoy riverside walks with bursts of red, orange, and gold surrounding the Connecticut River.
9. Grafton – Timeless New England Beauty
If you’re searching for a quiet escape, Grafton is a special place. This small town is a gem tucked into the hills of southern Vermont.
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Stay at the historic Grafton Inn, one of Vermont’s oldest operating inns.
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Stroll through the town center, with historic buildings framed by brilliant maples.
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Explore nearby hiking trails, or take a short drive to the Mollie Beattie State Forest.
10. Middlebury – College Town with Classic Charm
Middlebury, home to Middlebury College, is filled with cultural richness and surrounded by fall beauty.
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Visit the Falls of Lana Trail, with scenic views and waterfalls.
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Browse local shops and enjoy seasonal treats in town.
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Take a drive into the Green Mountain National Forest for even more leaf-peeping.
