SEASONAL GUIDE
Planning a Southern Vermont Fall Foliage Getaway
When to come, which back roads to drive, and where to stay for the most colorful weeks of the year.
Fall is Southern Vermont at its most famous, and for good reason. Hillsides turn red, orange and gold, the air turns crisp, and every farm stand fills with apples, cider and pumpkins. Here's how we'd plan a foliage weekend.
When to come
Color generally arrives in the higher elevations first and works its way down into the valleys. In Southern Vermont, the best color usually falls somewhere around late September through mid-October, with the peak often in early to mid-October. Every year is different, so we share updates with our email list as the season develops.
Scenic drives
Route 30 through the West River Valley. From Brattleboro up through Newfane, Townshend and Jamaica: village greens, farm stands and river views the whole way.
Route 100. Winding north through Wilmington, West Dover, Wardsboro and Jamaica, past the mountains.
Route 9, the Molly Stark Trail. Crossing the Green Mountains between Brattleboro and Bennington.
The dirt roads. Some of the best color is on the unpaved back roads. Take it slow and pull fully off the road for photos.
Covered bridges, villages and farm stands
Look for the Scott Covered Bridge in Townshend and the West Dummerston Covered Bridge along Route 30. Stop on the Newfane village green, and plan a stop at a farm stand for cider, apples and whatever's in season.
Where to stay for fall
Fall weekends book up early, especially in early and mid-October. These homes make the most of the season:
- Cottage at Ashwell Hill: a wraparound porch over open fields and an old apple orchard.
- West River Retreat: a screened porch on the river, framed by the foliage.
- The Black House: fall flowers at the door and a sauna in the woods.
- Get Lost Farm: 260 acres of field and forest to walk through the color.
Fall tips
- Book early, or go midweek. Peak weekends fill fast; midweek stays are calmer and often easier to find.
- Layer up. Warm afternoons can turn into frosty evenings.
- Hiking in November? Wear blaze orange during hunting season.