Places to Get Lost In
October is made for the latter. As summer finally gives way to crisp mornings and earlier sunsets, the landscape becomes part of the journey. In Vermont, for example, autumn color typically moves from higher elevations toward the valleys as September turns into October, with the timing varying according to elevation, weather, and tree species.
Vermont, USA
October falls within Vermont’s traditional foliage season, although there isn’t one guaranteed peak date statewide. Color progresses differently depending on elevation, location, weather, and tree species. Higher elevations and northern areas can change earlier, while valleys and southern parts of the state may retain color later into October.
That changing landscape is part of the appeal.
In the mountains, you’ll find hillsides glowing with color. In the valleys, roads wind through forests and small communities where fallen leaves gather along sidewalks. By mid-to-late October, some trees have begun to lose their leaves, opening up views along hiking trails while creating a carpet of color beneath your feet.
What to See
For a classic Vermont autumn experience, follow Route 100 and the Green Mountain Byway, a scenic 71-mile loop through communities including Waterbury, Stowe, and Morrisville. Along the way are opportunities to stop for photographs, explore towns, visit local businesses, and hike in places such as Smugglers’ Notch State Park and Mount Mansfield State Forest.
Then there are the covered bridges.
Vermont has 100 covered bridges, with most still serving as active roadways. Dating largely from the 19th century, these wooden structures provide some of the state’s most recognizable autumn scenes—especially when surrounded by colorful forests.
For a different perspective, head toward the water. In the Champlain Valley, autumn can be experienced by paddling sections of Otter Creek, where the changing trees reflect along the water and the landscape opens toward Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks.
What to do
The best Vermont itinerary doesn’t require rushing from one attraction to another.
- Hike: Vermont has hundreds of mountains and extensive trails, offering everything from accessible walks to more demanding climbs.
- Drive: Take the scenic roads and mountain gaps rather than treating the journey simply as transportation. Vermont’s back roads lead through forests, historic downtowns, farmstands, and small communities.
- Pick apples: Orchards and farms become part of the autumn experience, alongside pumpkin picking, cider, farm stands, and seasonal foods.
- Explore from above: Several Vermont mountain resorts offer fall chairlift or gondola rides, providing a way to see the foliage without climbing a mountain.
- Slow down: Walk a historic downtown. Stop for cider. Photograph a covered bridge. Browse a local shop. Sit beside a lake. Vermont’s fall season is as much about wandering as it is about sightseeing.
That’s why Vermont belongs to the place worth seeing in October. It isn’t simply a place to see autumn. It’s a place to experience it, one winding road, mountain trail, covered bridge, orchard, and quiet village at a time.
So take the scenic route. Follow the color. Stop when something catches your eye.
Let the afternoon become evening.
