Fall in Vermont

Written By Rachel Burton

One thing you must do before you die is visit Vermont in the fall. There is beauty ALL around and it is truly breathtaking. When out of staters come to visit we call them “leaf peepers” because everyone wants to peep at the vibrant leaves.

Now the million dollar question is, when do the leaves change color? When is "peak" fall? We all would love to know this, but generally speaking the leaves change between mid-September through mid-October. It varies based on the year depending on the weather.  If we have cooler temps in August and early September, the colors tend to change mid to late September.  If we have a warm summer and warm fall, then leaves tend to change mid-October.  If you are planning a trip to Vermont, I would suggest coming early to mid-October for optimal leaf peeping. 

What is there to do besides look at trees? And where to go? Ohhh boy, there is so much to share.  Here are a few of many suggestions of things to do around the state during the fall.

Burlington

Burlington, aka the Queen City, is a popular spot to see the fall colors, do some local shopping, and see the colors across Lake Champlain.  Some fall things to do around here include:

  • Greenway Bike Path (8 miles, rated easy)

  • Rent bikes at Local Motion and take a ride along the mostly paved path to view the foliage by the water.

  • Don't have 8 miles in you? Park at lot on Mills Point Road in Colchester. Bike the causeway to the bike ferry and take it across to the Islands.

Jeffersonville

Jeffersonville is located about 45m from Burlington and is at the base of Mount Mansfield with so much to offer. A few things to do while here are: 

  • Drive through the most picturesque road in Vermont - The Notch. Drive slowly to see the views of the mountains and the leaves. Pull over if there's a spot to really take it in. There are some hiking trails along this road too.

  • Bike along the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail - this gravel bike path is ranked easy and stretches over 93 miles.

  • Hike:

  • Rent kayak at Vermont Canoe and Kayak and get in the river to see the trees changing along the bank.

  • Zip Line Canopy Tour or High Ropes Course for a fun way to see the trees.

  • Pick apples at Chapin Orchard.

Stowe

One of, if not THE most popular place to visit in Vermont in the fall. You won't want to miss visiting Stowe and there is so much to do and see:

  • Take a scenic gondola ride at Stowe Resort to view the valley and fall colors from the mountain peak.

  • If chilly, sit by an outdoor fire at Idletyme Brewery or Sushi Yoshi.

  • The famous Trapp Family Lodge Oktoberfest is on 9/16 and with so much food and games you won't want to miss it.

  • Grab a coffee to go from Girakofi or Black Cap Coffee and walk along the bike path.

  • Stowe Recreation Path - paved and rated easy for walking, running, or biking.

  • Get lost in the Percy Farm Corn Maze

  • Thirsty? A few local breweries are:

    • The Alchemist Brewery

    • Stowe Cider

    • Idletyme Brewery

    • Von Trapp Brewery & Bierhall

  • Hike

Northeast Kingdom

The Northeast Kingdom of Vermont is so underrated. Because there aren't any major towns in this area people think there isn't much going on, but I think it is Vermont's hidden gem. It's absolutely gorgeous with its mountains, rolling hills, and rivers.

Woodstock

Woodstock may be named the most quintessential Vermont town of all time. See for yourself and walk around town and visit a few local shops, or:

  • Visit Sugarbush Farm - a three generation farm famous for its cheese and maple syrup. When you go, you can taste the cheese and syrup for free!

Killington

Killington is known for its skiing in the winter, but has so much to offer year round. If you're here for the fall there is so much to do:  

Whew - what a lot to do! I hope you are able to come and enjoy fall in Vermont to the fullest. Let me know what you end up doing!

See ya out there,

Rachel

Rachel Burton
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