Vermont is one of the most heavily forested states in the country. These forests are full of gorgeous maple trees whose leaves change from lush green to an explosion of reds, oranges and yellows during fall. Leaf peepers and tourists from all over the world flock to Vermont to see and experience its fall foliage. There are a variety of reasons why Vermont is one of the best places to see a spectacular display of colors.
Read on for more about what makes Vermont foliage special and some of the best places to see fall foliage in Vermont to experience all of its beauty.
What Makes Vermont Foliage Special
Vermont foliage is special because of the gorgeous, colorful hues that spread across its mountain ranges, along dirt roads and provide a backdrop to quaint country farms. Imagine historic covered bridges and church steeples with colorful mountain ranges in the distance. Vermont in the fall is a magical thing. Vermont is known for its rich soil, which makes it a pristine location for farming and allows forests to flourish. The change of seasons and difference in temperatures from day to night keeps the trees happy and healthy. These weather conditions are perfect for a range of different trees. With everything from sugar maples, pine, oak, spruce, birch and ash, this mix of trees creates beautiful forests and vistas that are even more brilliant during the fall foliage season.
Take a look at this foliage report map to see when Vermont fall foliage is supposed to be at its peak this year! Vermont is located in Northeastern United States and the weather during the fall season is often warm during the day in the 60s and 70s and cooler at night in the 50s. While many tourists flock to various places in New England during foliage season, Vermont is unique because it has a plethora of protected land and state parks. This has provided an opportunity for its mountains and forests to flourish without disturbance from developments and human interference. Not to mention a wide array of places to hike, bike and explore the outdoors! Vermont foliage is a must-see.
Best Places To See Fall Foliage In Vermont
Burlington
Burlington is a small city in northwestern Vermont located on the eastern shore of Lake Champlain. Burlington is the perfect place to experience peak foliage whether you are enjoying a stroll down church street, biking on the Burlington Greenway or visiting the Missisquoi Wildlife Refuge. The scenery of the mountains and fall hoes reflected in the lake cannot be beat!
Stowe
Stowe nestled below Mount Mansfield in northern Vermont is a popular tourist destination because of it’s beautiful quaint town, shops, restaurants, breweries, bike path and great opportunity for hiking and exploring the best of Vermont. While in the area, don’t miss experiencing those fall colors at Smugglers Notch for world-class scenic drives, hikes, and exploration. Or take a 25-minute drive from Stowe to Green River Reservoir State Park to camp, canoe, or hike! Check out our guide for Best Restaurants in Stowe, Vermont.
Woodstock
Woodstock is a historic, quintessential small Vermont village nestled in the Green Mountains of Windsor County. Woodstock is a beautiful place to experience the magic of fall foliage. Walk the streets of downtown, window shop, grab a bite to eat at several of the al fresco dining options and hike, bike or drive scenic routes around town. Read What To Do in Woodstock, VT During Fall Foliage for more recommendations or check out the Woodstock Guide.
Quechee
Also located in Windsor County, Vermont, Quechee is another small charming village to visit during fall in Vermont. The Quechee State Park includes the Quechee Gorge, hiking and camping spots. Quintessential country stores for buying homemade Vermont gifts and souvenirs and Simon Pearce Mill and Restaurant.
Manchester
Manchester located in southern Vermont nestled amongst the Taconic and Green Mountain ranges is a beautiful, charming town with much to offer for both historians and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Check out our post on 25+ Things To Do in Manchester, VT For Fall for everything for places to stay, eat and what to do while in town.
Northeast Kingdom
The Northeast Kingdom is well-known for it’s gorgeous displays during fall foliage in Vermont. Located in the northeast corner of Vermont, this historically scenic and untouched part of Vermont is one that cannot be missed. There is ample opportunity for road trips and scenic drives in the Northeast Kingdom along back roads and old country dirt roads. While in the Northeast Kingdom be sure to check out the Kingdom Trails for mountain biking, hike Mt. Pisgah and explore Lake Willoughby.
Shelburne
Shelburne located in Chittenden County, Vermont is based along the shores of Lake Champlain just south of Burlington. This town is a lovely place to eat, shop and stay while enjoying the pleasures of Vermont fall. Shelburne Farms is a working farm and educational nonprofit that prioritizes sustainable living. They provide workshops and events throughout the fall season, check their website for offerings this fall. Visit Shelburne Orchards to pick your own apples and enjoy the gorgeous scenic fall views!
Vergennes
Vergennes, “Vermont’s Oldest City” is located in Addison County known for it’s excellent restaurants, shopping and beautiful downtown. During fall foliage explore this beautiful small city and see some of the best of scenic Vermont. At City Park you can enjoy outdoor concerts, festivals and markets. Explore the Lake Champlain Maritime Museum, grab some ice cream at LuLu or catch a show at the Vergennes Opera House.
Stratton
On your next trip to Vermont, consider visiting Stratton in Windham County. Do some leaf peeping via hiking or biking at Somerset Reservoir or scenic lift rides and bike park at Stratton Mountain. Stratton is a great place to see some of the best Vermont foliage and plan a trip the whole family will enjoy.
Waterbury
Located just south of Stowe, Vermont, Waterbury is another favorite destination during fall foliage in Vermont. This special town, offers everything from great restaurants and downtown, the Waterbury Reservoir and State Park for camping, picnicking and swimming or boating and of course the famous Ben & Jerry’s Factory for some delicious ice cream.
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