Vermont’s dense forests, especially sugar maples, burst into vivid shades of red, orange, and gold. It’s one of the few places where fiery reds dominate thanks to a high concentration of red maples and cold nights that intensify pigment.
Vermont is heavily forested (over 75% tree coverage) with minimal urban sprawl, meaning the views are uninterrupted and immersive β mountains, farms, lakes, and country roads all wrapped in color.
Scenic villages like Stowe, Woodstock, and Manchester sit surrounded by forests and hills β creating postcard-perfect scenes with church steeples, covered bridges, and foliage all around.
Vermont’s cool nights and sunny days in early fall slow down the breakdown of chlorophyll in leaves, allowing vibrant anthocyanins (reds/purples) to shine through.
Because of its elevation and northern location, Vermont’s foliage season typically starts early (mid-September) and lasts through mid-October, offering multiple opportunities to catch peak colors.
π Best Fall Foliage Routes
- Route 100 β Known as βVermontβs Main Street,β itβs one of the most scenic drives in New England.
- Smugglers’ Notch near Stowe β Winding mountain pass filled with color.
- Green Mountain Byway β Between Waterbury and Stowe, with views of Mt. Mansfield.
- The Northeast Kingdom β A lesser-known but stunningly wild region.
π¦ Wildlife & Fall Fun
- Spot moose, white-tailed deer, and migrating birds.
- Visit apple orchards, maple syrup farms, and pumpkin patches.
- Enjoy fall festivals with cider donuts, craft fairs, and harvest food.