10 Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Vermont

Of all the parts of the U.S. to see fall foliage, New England is tops. And if we had to pick one state, it just might be Vermont. Each year, native maple trees and other broadleaves in the largely forested state put on a dazzling display of fiery reds, oranges, and golds. And while some areas were affected by floodwaters in July 2023, most locales have bounced back, reopening to tourism just in time for leaf-peeping season.

From bucolic hills and staggering mountain peaks to reflective lakes, there's no shortage of picture-perfect places to see the changing leaves. Get ready to take a drive, tackle a hike, or row out on the water to soak in all the majesty of nature at one of these amazing Vermont fall foliage destinations.

Brattleboro

This artsy small town not far from the Massachusetts border offers an array of places to see blazing red, orange, and yellow leaves, including Fort Dummer State Park and the Wantastiquet Mountain State Forest, located just next door in New Hampshire. Brattleboro is situated in the lowest point of the Connecticut River Valley, and the rippling hillsides encircling the downtown area ensure the bright colors are on full display. You can also treat yourself to a picturesque, 17-mile tour by following Route 30 to yet another charming Vermont locale, Townshend.

Smugglers' Notch

Known among locals as "the Notch," this mountain pass brings a dramatic lens to leaf peeping. Route 108 is a scenic, winding road sentineled by towering cliffs and boulders that lead to Mount Mansfield, the highest peak in the Green Mountains. Enjoy the spectacular view from your car, or pull over for some epic hiking. Follow the Long Trail, which winds up at Bingham Falls and connects to Elephant's Head cliff, a more challenging trek that will reward you with sweeping vistas.

Stowe

Before the neighboring slopes of Stowe turn to powder, this renowned ski area becomes ablaze with bright fall foliage. Take the Gondola SkyRide to the top of Mount Mansfield and hit the hiking trails for breathtaking views. From the peak of the mountain to the valley below, the historic village provides a more grounded frame for the flaming ambers and golds.

Peacham

The piercing white spire of the Congregational Church in this Northeast Kingdom town, framed by rolling hills of contrasting color, is a vision so perfect that Hollywood has been lured by its charms. Despite having big-picture productions roll through — including 1993's "Ethan Frome," starring Liam Neeson and Patricia Arquette, among others — the wee town remains quiet and rural, and ideal for enjoying the simple act of admiring the changing leaves.

Quechee State Park

The 165-foot-deep gorge in Quechee State Park is also known as Vermont's Little Grand Canyon and is an epic spot for foliage immersion. In addition to the mile-long chasm that rises above the clear waters of the Ottauquechee River, the park is home to heaps of hiking and biking trails and scenic picnicking and camping areas. It's also where you'll find the Quechee Gorge dam overlook and its impressive waterfall. Check the park's website for current trail conditions before you head out, as some portions are still recovering after the July 2023 floods. Be sure to stop by neighboring Woodstock for a town as pretty as the leaves themselves.

Manchester

A bucolic town at the foot of Mount Equinox in the Battenkill River Valley, Manchester already comes with plenty of allure. The historic home of Abraham Lincoln's son, Hildene has gardens and a farm with incredible views of the Green Mountains, along with 12 miles of walking trails. Similarly, the Southern Vermont Arts Center, nestled atop a hill, features a sculpture garden and opportunities for woodland hiking. The town itself boasts trails offering views of the Green and Taconic mountains, and the Manchester Riverwalk, which ambles along the Battenkill River.

St. Johnsbury

The colors tend to come early in this remote northeastern corner of the state. About 50 miles from the Canadian border, the artsy town of St. Johnsbury has an old-timey vibe and offers easy access to nature. Stroll or bike along the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, which starts and ends downtown and crosses all types of terrain. If you're traveling with your pooch, the 150-acre Dog Mountain is a must so your four-legged friend can run free while you check out the sweeping views.

Mad River Valley

Indulge your desire to see the state's famed covered bridges and vibrant leaves at the same time. In the dynamic town of Waitsfield, you'll find two historic bridges — Big Eddy and Pine Brook — along with the easygoing Mad River Path, offering quintessential fall foliage photo ops. Just nine miles south, the Americana vibe continues in Warren, which not only has its own covered bridge, but a waterfall and historic village to boot.

Grafton

A small village in the rolling hills of southern Vermont, Grafton has history, art, delicious dairy, and beautiful foliage. Start by surrounding yourself with 2,000 acres of natural beauty at the Grafton Trails & Outdoor Center. Nearby, The Nature Museum will also lead you to stunning views, either from its own gardens or the Village Park, a wooded trail system that's perfect for ambling up close to the trees.

Burlington

This bustling lakeside city, about a 5.5-hour drive from New York City and roughly 3.5 hours from Boston, has all the ingredients of a great fall getaway: small-town charm, urban culture, outdoor adventure, and some of the best foliage in the northeast. Whether you're strolling pedestrian-only Church Street or hitting the Burlington Greenway, a lovely bike path along the shore of Lake Champlain, the views here are both scenic and colorful. For an even more memorable vantage of the technicolor display, hop aboard one the many local boat tours and see the city in all its glory from the water.