When is peak fall foliage in Vermont? Each autumn, Vermont transforms into one of the most breathtaking destinations in the world. It's the perfect backdrop for epic scenic drives, Instagram-worthy leaf-peeping, Vermont apple picking, and fall festivals. This guide is your secret weapon to understanding what makes Vermont's fall colors pop and how to perfectly time your trip for the most vibrant displays and create unforgettable memories that'll last a lifetime!
Peak Foliage Season in Vermont
Home to the highest concentration of maple trees, Vermont is famous for its spectacular fall foliage season. Vermont’s foliage season typically begins in mid-September and extends through mid-October, with timing varying by elevation and region:
- Mid to Late September – The Northeast Kingdom (Vermont’s northernmost region) usually turns first, showing peak colors two to three weeks before the rest of the state.
- Late September to Early October – Higher-elevation towns across central Vermont begin to peak as cooler nights speed up the color change.
- Early to Mid-October – Burlington, the Lake Champlain Valley, and southern Vermont valleys typically showcase the most vivid colors last, often creating Instagram-worthy views against rolling farmland and the lake.
This staggered timing means leaf peepers have nearly a month-long window to catch Vermont at its most colorful.
Stay up-to-date on the progression of fall foliage in Vermont by checking Vermont Tourism’s Foliage Forecaster.
Ways to Experience Vermont Foliage
Whether exploring Vermont through scenic byways, hiking picturesque trails, or participating in autumn festivals, the state is alive and erupting in color.
No matter when you visit, Vermont offers countless ways to enjoy autumn colors:
- Scenic Drives – Explore routes like Route 100 or Route 7 for sweeping views of mountain valleys and covered bridges.
- Leaf-Peeping Hikes – Try trails such as Red Rocks Park in Burlington or Camel’s Hump in central Vermont.
- Apple Picking & Orchards – Spend the day at Shelburne Orchards or check out Hello Burlington’s apple picking guide.
- Pumpkin Patches & Corn Mazes – Sam Mazza’s Farm Market offers family fun surrounded by fall colors. Every year, the corn mazes in Vermont invite you and your family to enjoy some of the best experiences in New England.
- Festivals & Events – From Oktoberfest Vermont to Burlington’s South End Art Hop, Vermont’s fall festivals are packed with local celebrations.
Must See Fall Activities
- Downtown Hiking & Trails Near Burlington
Explore urban-adjacent fall hikes—perfect for quick leaf-peeping escapes. Routes like the Nebraska Notch Trail, Ethan Allen Park, Centennial Woods, and the Colchester Pond loop offer scenic views and tranquil forest walks. - Experience Burlington’s Waterfront & Lake Champlain in Autumn
Enjoy a crisp, colorful stroll along Lake Champlain’s waterfront and Church Street Marketplace. The fiery fall foliage reflecting off the lake creates an unforgettable backdrop. - Explore Outdoor Recreation: Biking, Paddling & Trails
Fall is a fantastic season to hit Burlington’s outdoors—bike along the Island Line Trail, paddle calm bays of Lake Champlain, or enjoy running and waterfalls framed in autumn colors. - 30 Fall Events to Mark on Your Calendar
Fall in Burlington brings an array of cultural highlights—from live music and comedy at VT Comedy Club, to exhibits at ECHO, jazz nights at Foam Brewers, and art events at BCA.
Plan Your Vermont Fall Getaway
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a scenic drive, or a family trip, Vermont offers some of the most spectacular foliage in the world.
Ready to plan your fall adventure? Visit Hello Burlington for guides, events, and travel tips to make the most of Vermont’s most colorful season.
