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 crimson, blaze orange, and striking yellow leaves on maple trees surrounding you: This is fall in Vermont.
Forests cover 70% of Vermont, giving it the highest concentration of maple trees in the country and making a Vermont autumn a true spectacle. Between mid-September and mid-October are the most colorful times to visit Vermont, with foliage starting to change colors as early as the start of September in northern areas and higher elevations. From there, over the next two or three weeks, color moves into downtowns and valleys and from north to south, with color hanging on the trees as late as the end of October in some areas. To experience Vermont’s fall foliage at its peak, travelers should plan on visiting towards the end of September and the beginning of October and building in plenty of time to travel around the state to take in the foliage as it shifts. Peak foliage can vary depending on weather conditions.
Top Featured Fall Events
Live music, bike and road races, local food festivals, and beautiful art fill Vermont's calendar.
A scenic chairlift ride affords stunning views from above of hillsides blazing with red, orange, and yellow leaves during the fall. Find a scenic ride at a Vermont ski resort.
Foliage Forecaster
The Forecaster can give you an idea of when and where leaves typically start changing color in the fall to give your best shot at peeping the peak.
When Is Peak Foliage in Vermont?
Many travelers want to plan their Vermont fall vacations around peak foliage, when colors are at their brightest and most concentrated statewide. Peak foliage depends on a number of factors.
Scenic Drives
Vermont’s 10 federally designated scenic byways will help you navigate the state and get the most out of your trip, helping you discover more.
OUTDOOR RECREATION
In the water, on a peak, exploring a trail, or sleeping under the stars, recharging your batteries doesn’t necessarily require electricity. Explore Vermont’s great outdoors.
TRIP PLANNING INSPIRATION
Scenic Drives Among Outdoor Art
Vermont’s autumnal beauty sets the stage for these ten scenic drives around the state where travelers can discover outdoor art, from sculpture parks to murals.
Outdoor Fall Adventures
Fall is one of the best times to enjoy Vermont’s outdoor offerings, with cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage views. From nature walks to foliage hikes, here are some great ways to enjoy the great outdoors in the fall.
How to Eat Like a Local in Vermont
As you travel Vermont’s rolling hills, farm stands, country stores, farmers markets, roadside food stops, and wineries and breweries are welcoming stops along your journey. Things to do surrounding local food can fill an entire weekend.
Get to the Core of Apple Season
Picking your own apples, attending a harvest festival or fair, meeting and learning more about Vermont’s apple growers, and sampling unique cheese and cider pairings are just some of the ways to enjoy farm fresh apples.
Alternative Fall Hikes
Avoid the leaf-peeping crowds with stunning alternative hiking trails to see some of Vermont’s most incredible summits and views.
Favorite Fall Activities for the Whole Family
A Vermont fall offers something to enjoy for the whole family, from pick-your-own orchards to delicious doughnuts and seasonal treats to exploring a Vermont corn maze.
FALL IN LOVE
Vermont's landscapes change by the day when the first leaves start to turn. Explore the season with this selection of videos, then plan your trip to see the sights in person.
