Vermont during fall is absolutely stunning as vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold cover the mountains, forests and fields like a blanket. This color explosion gives the Green Mountain State a cozy and beautiful autumn ambiance that attracts people to travel from all over to see the gorgeous display. Although leaf peeping is a favorite fall activity for many, there are plenty of other things to do during autumn in Vermont aside from leaf peeping. When planning your trip to Vermont consider doing some classic fall activities that will make your vacation complete.
Today we’re sharing 17 quintessential activities you won’t want to miss while visiting Vermont this fall.
17 Things To Do in Vermont in The Fall
Visit Farmers Markets
Vermont Farmer’s Markets are one of the best ways to get the true Vermont experience. In small Vermont towns you get to browse local vendors and meet Vermont natives who are passionate about the state and the work they do. You can buy local farm fresh produce and meat, jewelry, soaps, pottery, maple syrup, jams, flowers and so much more. Buy gifts for friends and family or souvineers to help you remember your Vermont vacation forever.
Hike in the Mountains
What better way to enjoy the beautiful fall foliage in Vermont than hiking trails. Vermont has so many mountains and beautifully groomed trails to enjoy for all level hikers. Take a look at our 15 of the Best Hikes in Vermont for Fall for recommendations on some of the best hikes, how to get there and what to expect. Some of our favorites include, Mt. Tom in Woodstock, Camels Hump in Waterbury and Mount Mansfield in Chittenden County.
Visit State Parks
We are so fortunate to have so much protected land in Vermont. This allows our beautiful forests and animals to flourish without disturbance from clearcutting and housing developments. Fall is the best time to enjoy these State Parks when the fall colors in Vermont are on full display. Vermont State Parks are diverse and have everything from ponds and lakes, hiking and walking trails and waterfront access with beaches, picnic tables, playgrounds and campsites. Take a look at the Vermont State Parks website to explore the parks in every part of the state.
Visit Covered Bridges
Vermont is known for its charming historic covered bridges. While you are in Vermont make a point to visit as many as you can! Looking for a map of all of Vermont’s Covered Bridges in one place? Check out Vermont Vacation to see which bridges are closest to your Vermont vacation and to learn more about this fascinating part of Vermont’s history.
Take a Scenic Drive
If you are only in Vermont for a short amount of time there is no better way to see it’s scenic beauty than driving. Check out our post, Best Scenic Drives in Vermont During Fall to discover some of our favorite roads and routes- including Route 100 from Killington to Waterbury, Woodstock to Manchester via Route 100, 11 & 30 into southern vermont, Route 2 through the Lake Champlain Islands and Route 108 in the North East Kingdom.
Visit Farm Stands
Farm Stands in Vermont are quintessential Vermont staples. Located on the side of the road with a backdrop of stunning Vermont farmland and rolling hills, these farm stands are a great way to get the local Vermont experience. Farm stands range in size and offerings but you will often find farm fresh produce, meats, maple syrup, jams, flowers and so much more. Grab some goods to bring home or enjoy during your stay in Vermont. Check out 15 Farm Stands in Vermont for some of our favorites.
Go Apple Picking
The fall is the best time of year to go apple picking in Vermont. There is nothing better than using freshly picked apples to make apple crisp, apple pie, apple sauce and all your other favorite apple creations. There are so many orchards to choose from in Vermont. Here are a few of our favorites: Moore’s Orchard in Pomfret, Hackett’s Orchard in South Hero and Burtt’s Orchard in Cabot. Be sure to check their websites for hours and more information.
Stay at a Vermont Bed and Breakfast
For your visit in Vermont, staying at a bed and breakfast is the best way to truly experience Vermont’s warmth, hospitality and simple pleasures of times gone by. We did a roundup of the Best Bed and Breakfasts in Vermont During Fall if you are looking for your next getaway.
Get Lost in a Corn Maze
Corn Mazes in Vermont are a popular fall activity. Many farms plow intricate designs into their corn fields each year for visitors to enjoy. Some corn mazes have clues and riddles to help you find your way to the end. This is a fun family friendly activity. Be sure to dress accordingly and prepare for the corn maze to take a few hours in some cases. This is a great way to get outside in the beautiful fall weather and enjoy a fun Vermont pastime. Some of our favorite corn mazes include: Great Vermont Corn Maze in Danville, Hathaway Farm Corn Maze in Rutland and Percy Farm Corn Maze in Stowe.
Eat a Maple Creemee
Vermont is famous for its maple creemees. These well-known treats are made with farm fresh ice cream and Vermont homemade maple syrup mixed together into a soft serve twist. YUM! You can’t leave Vermont without trying a maple creemee. There are many places to get creemees throughout the state.
Eat Cider Donuts
Cider Donuts are another classic Vermont treat that can’t be missed while you’re in town. Cold Hollow Cider Mill is one of our favorite spots to stop for their famous homemade cider donuts. They also make raw freshly pressed cider, jams, hard cider and so much more!
Take a Scenic Bike Ride
Taking a scenic bike ride is one of the best way to see Vermont’s gorgeous fall hues. If you didn’t bring your bike along for the trip there are many places to rent bikes locally. If you are in Woodstock try Woodstock Wheels and explore the Upper Valley’s beautiful trails, backroads and other pre-routed routes at your fingertips! Mad River Valley also has great mountain biking trails, gravel and paved paths at your disposal.
Visit General Stores
General Stores are old historic country stores that have existed in towns for hundreds of years. Oftentimes these stores have been passed down through families for generations and have served as a staple in communities since the 1800s. Most towns in Vermont have a General Store and they are all unique in what they sell and are known for. Many have delis, cafes, sell kitchen staples, gifts, souvineers and local Vermont goodies. Check out our list of the 15 Best Country Stores in Vermont.
Go Pumpkin Picking
Pumpkin picking in Vermont is another favorite fall activity. Pumpkins are a lovely way to decorate your home or you can use them to make seasonal recipes like pumpkin pie.
Picnic at a Park
Picnicking in the fall is lovely because of the gorgeous colorful leaves and weather. Pick a pretty location and bring along a picnic to enjoy while there. Maybe pack some charcuterie and wine and enjoy the stunning views and cool temperatures in your Vermont flannel or crewneck sweatshirt.
Go Camping
Camping in Vermont during the fall is a great way to enjoy nature and the outdoors. There are so many campsites to choose from around Vermont depending on what you are looking for. There are wooded shady campsites, campsites on lakes and rivers and campsites on sandy beaches. Take a look at Vermont’s State Parks or this round-up of the best campsites in New England for some of the best places to stay at this fall!
Visit All 251 Towns in Vermont
In this documentary, One Town at a Time, Woodstock locals, documented their 251 club journey. The 251 Club is an organization dedicated to visiting all 251 towns in Vermont. Watch the movie and then try your hand at visiting as many as you can!
Leave a Reply