Travel guide
If there's one iconic place to admire peak foliage in North America, it's Vermont. This northeastern US state, 75% covered in deciduous forest, transforms every year into a living painting tinted red, orange and gold. Whether you're planning a road trip from Boston, Montreal or New York, here's TripCompanion's complete guide to a successful fall stay in Vermont.
Stowe & Route 100One of the most beautiful scenic drives in the United States, running the length of Vermont along the Green Mountains.
Smugglers' NotchA spectacular, narrow road winding between tall rocky cliffs and blazing red maples.
Woodstock & covered bridgesOften called the prettiest small town in America, with its white clapboard houses and historic covered bridges.
Quechee GorgeNicknamed "Vermont's Grand Canyon", this 50-metre-deep chasm offers a stunning view surrounded by colourful trees.
Peak foliage
Peak colour dates vary by altitude and latitude. As a general rule, the blazing foliage moves from north to south.
| Region of Vermont | Recommended peak window | Towns & key sights |
|---|---|---|
| North (Green Mountains) | September 20 to October 5 | Stowe, Smugglers' Notch, Jay Peak |
| Centre (Champlain Valley) | October 1 to October 12 | Woodstock, Montpelier, Waterbury |
| South (Green Mountains) | October 5 to October 20 | Manchester, Bennington, Mount Snow |
The details
Route 100 is considered one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the United States. It runs the length of Vermont, north to south, along the Green Mountains.
Must-sees around Stowe:
TripCompanion tip: plan your drives on Route 100 for early morning to avoid weekend slowdowns and catch the low, golden light that's ideal for photos.
Woodstock is often named the prettiest small town in America. It embodies classic New England charm with its white clapboard houses, general stores and covered bridges.
Must-sees in Woodstock:
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Itinerary
Budget
For a 4-day road trip for two people, here's an average cost estimate to plan for (excluding international flights).
Frequently asked questions
Foliage season is the most in-demand time of year. It's strongly recommended to book your accommodation 6 to 9 months ahead, as early as the start of the year.
Peak colour runs from late September in the north (Stowe, Jay Peak) to mid-October in the south (Manchester, Bennington), as the colours move from north to south.
Yes, a rental car or van is essential for exploring the scenic byways, state parks and small towns of Vermont.
Vermont pairs perfectly with a stop in New Hampshire (White Mountains), Massachusetts (Boston and the Berkshires), or a side trip to Quebec, with Montreal just a 2-hour drive away.
Free guide
Get a free mini-guide to Vermont in fall by email: our must-sees condensed into a few pages, no strings attached.
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