Fall
Vibrant Fall Foliage
Autumn in Vermont
Nature paints the landscape in a breathtaking tapestry of deep crimson, blaze oranges, and bright yellows every fall. As the crisp autumn air sets in, the hills and valleys come alive with the vibrant hues of changing foliage, creating a captivating visual symphony. Scenic drives reveal historic downtowns with leaves crunching under your feet on the sidewalk, while outdoor activities like hiking or apple picking offer an immersive experience amid the stunning autumn scenery. Savoring local flavors against the backdrop of this natural masterpiece rounds out the fall experience in Vermont, making it a time when every corner of the state becomes a canvas of seasonal splendor.
Immerse Yourself
The brisk snap of autumn-scented morning air, the crunch of fallen leaves on the ground under your boots and the sweet tartness of apple cider complement the vibrant array of color surrounding you: This is fall in Vermont during the “peak weeks” in September and October.
Ways to Get Outside
Paddling, hiking, mountain biking, and exploring rail trails are immersive ways to get outside amid a symphony of fall colors. Farm visits celebrate the harvest season, and nature’s brilliant palette sets the stage for outdoor art.
Hiking
The end of the trail is only the beginning. With hundreds of mountains, five of them with summits higher than 4,000 feet, offer boundless opportunity for hiking Vermont’s rugged terrain and taking in Green Mountain views.
Read More about HikingRead MorePaddling
More than 800 lakes and ponds and more than 7,000 miles of rivers mean Vermont’s waterways intertwine to connect the state’s historic downtowns, state parks, and conserved forest land, offering diverse territory for paddling.
Read More about PaddlingRead MoreFarm Visits
Visiting a Vermont farm can mean spending a few hours petting farm animals and picking produce, or it can be a more immersive experience. Start planning to visit a Vermont farm.
Read More about Farm VisitsRead MoreMountain Biking
Vermont is home to more than 1,400 miles of rocky, rooty, bermy, and flowy mountain biking trails maintained by 29 local chapters throughout the state.
Read More about Mountain BikingRead MoreOutdoor Art
Vermont’s outdoor art showcases how Vermont landscapes and towns not only inspire artists, but also become part of the work and the experience of taking it in. Enjoy the fresh air as you explore public art.
Read More about Outdoor ArtRead MoreScenic Drives
Byways and back roads are some of the best ways to explore the state, meandering through historic downtowns and inviting stops at general stores, farmstands, scenic vantage points, and more.
Read More about Scenic DrivesRead MoreRecreation Paths and Rail Trails
Vermont’s rail trails and recreation paths are great low-impact ways to explore downtowns, scenic views, and waterfronts. Along the way, there are many opportunities to enjoy a taste of Vermont, from farmstands to farm-to-table dining, breweries to cideries, and more.
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Nature’s Beauty Sets the Stage
Fall Events
Signature events bring people together to celebrate fall in Vermont. From harvest-season festivals that fuse the bounty of farm and field to country fairs that honor the Green Mountains’ agricultural heritage with local food, livestock events, and a jam-packed midway, Vermont’s fall calendar is stacked.
Top Picks By Season From Yankee Magazine
Things To Do in the Fall
Region
Upper Connecticut River Valley in the Fall
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Lower Connecticut River Valley in the Fall
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When Does Foliage Peak?
Vermont is famous for its fall color, and with good reason – 70% of the state is forested, with the highest density of sugar maples in the U.S. When is the best time to visit Vermont to see colors at their peak? This blog explores the chemistry behind Vermont’s vibrant fall season.
Read More about When Does Foliage Peak?
Sign Up for the Fall Foliage Report
Be among the first to know where fall color is peaking in Vermont and plan your visit as conditions develop. Sign up for the weekly fall foliage report, landing in your inbox for the weeks between mid-September and mid-October.
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