Incredible Vermont Hiking in the Fall

As autumn sweeps across Vermont, the Green Mountain State transforms into a breathtaking display of vibrant fall colors. The crisp air and picturesque landscapes make fall the ideal time to hit the trails and immerse yourself in nature. Vermont’s hiking routes come alive with brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows, offering spectacular vistas and serene experiences. Whether you’re seeking a challenging ascent or a peaceful walk through colorful forests, Vermont’s fall hiking opportunities promise unforgettable adventures amidst some of the most stunning scenery of the year.

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How to Get to Vermont

The most popular option is to fly into Logan International Airport in Boston, MA and drive roughly 3 hours to the Green Mountain National Forest. If you have any extra time I would definitely recommend spending some time in Boston, this is one of my favorite cities, but of course I am biased! Another option is to fly into Bradley International Airport in Hartford, CT and drive 2.5 hours. If you are interested in stopping in New Hampshire along the way to Vermont this may be a better option for you. The most direct way would be to fly into Burlington International Airport (BTV) and drive 2 hours; however, this could be more costly since it is a smaller airport.

The Best Time to Visit for Fall

This varies from year to year depending on a number of factors, but it has been found that a stretch of warm, sunny days with cool (not freezing) nights will produce vibrant colors. You want to visit during “peak” time which can be early to late October (typically). Check on foliage reports (such as the Vermont Foliage Tracker) during late summer, but if you need to book your trip sooner than your best bet would be sometime in that timeframe. The photos in this blog are from the first week of October and when we left it definitely was hitting “peak” time. This particular year was not as vibrant compared to past years when I lived in New England, they experienced many freezing nights and more precipitation during the summer months than usual.

What to Wear

Packing layers is definitely key when visiting anywhere in New England during the Fall time, it can range from sunny in the 70s to chill, rainy days. As a New Englander, I recommend bringing these items:

What to Wear:

• Hiking Tops – I always start with a t shirt and I recommend not buying anything with cotton, this Patagonia t shirt is the perfect hiking top and if you’d like more coverage from the sun, this long sleeve REI Co-op shirt is cute and practical. You want to be prepared for those unexpected warm, sunny days
• New England Style – of course you need a cute flannel from LL Bean (the flagship store is in Maine!)
• Sweater – a comfy, stylish sweater is a must when visiting New Hampshire (obviously for the cute photos)
• Outer Layer – This is where your layers come in, I brought my Patagonia Nano Puff for those cold days and paired with a REI Co-op rain jacket if it was a chilly, rainy day.
• Bottoms – I wore my REI Co-op Trailmade leggings these are great because they have pockets! Or if you’d prefer pants, the REI Co-op Trailmade Pants are perfect for hiking and you can’t go wrong with Glyder leggings.
• Socks – I absolutely love socks, I truly have a problem (lol) and I have found that Smartwool and Darn Tough are my favorite hiking sock brands. Darn tough is based in Vermont!
• Footwear – I wear my Danner boots for hiking and my Blundstones for casual, cute footwear
• Beanie – You’ll need a beanie for those chilly mornings

Extras:

• Day Backpack – I have two day packs, I will use my Osprey 24L or my Gregory 28L depending on the hike and what I will need to bring. Both have a suspension system that allows more breathability that really makes a difference for me.
• Camera
• Sunscreen – as always, lather up in sunscreen and remember to re-apply!

Things to Know Before You Go

• Weather: Vermont’s weather can vary greatly, especially in the fall and winter. Be prepared for sudden changes and pack layers. Check the weather forecast before your trip.
• Traffic and Roads: Vermont’s roads can be winding and narrow, particularly in rural areas. Allow extra travel time and drive cautiously, especially in winter conditions.
• Outdoor Gear: If you plan to hike or engage in outdoor activities, bring appropriate gear. Even in warmer months, temperatures can drop quickly at higher elevations.
• Reservations: Popular spots, especially during peak seasons like fall foliage, can get busy. Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance.
• Local Cuisine: Vermont is known for its local food, including craft beer, cheese, and maple syrup. Try local specialties and visit farmers’ markets if you have the chance.
• Cash and Cards:** While most places accept credit cards, some small businesses and rural areas may only accept cash. It’s a good idea to carry some cash for these situations.
• Wildlife: Be aware of local wildlife, such as bears and moose. Follow safety guidelines for encountering wildlife and storing food.
• Cell Service: Cell phone coverage can be spotty in remote areas. Plan accordingly if you need reliable communication.
• Local Etiquette: Vermonters value privacy and courtesy. A friendly attitude and respect for local customs will enhance your experience.
• Emergency Services:* Familiarize yourself with local emergency services and health facilities in case of unexpected situations.

Incredible Hikes in Vermont

Mount Mansfield

Vermont’s highest peak, Mount Mansfield, is a spectacular destination in the fall. The foliage from the summit provides panoramic views of the colorful landscape. The Long Trail and Sunset Ridge Trail are popular routes, offering challenging hikes with rewarding vistas.

Camel’s Hump

Camel’s Hump is another top spot for fall hiking. The summit views are exceptional, especially when the surrounding trees are ablaze with autumn colors. The ascent is strenuous but well worth it for the breathtaking fall scenery.

Stowe Pinnacle

For a shorter hike with a big payoff, Stowe Pinnacle is perfect. The steep climb leads to a summit with expansive views of the fall foliage in the surrounding valleys and mountains. The vibrant colors make the panoramic vistas even more stunning.

Quechee Gorge

Known as Vermont’s “Grand Canyon,” Quechee Gorge offers a more relaxed hike with beautiful fall scenery. The trail along the rim provides picturesque views of the gorge and the changing leaves, making it a great spot for a leisurely autumn walk.

Burke Mountain

Burke Mountain’s trails are especially picturesque in the fall. The hike through forests and overlook spots is enhanced by the brilliant fall colors. The mountain’s higher elevation provides sweeping views of the fall foliage across the region.

Winooski Gorge

Near Burlington, Winooski Gorge features a trail that follows the river and provides scenic overlooks. The fall colors reflect beautifully in the river, adding to the trail’s charm and making it a serene spot for autumn hiking.

Smugglers’ Notch

Smugglers’ Notch offers rugged terrain and impressive rock formations, with the added bonus of stunning fall foliage. The trails provide dramatic views of colorful trees and the surrounding landscape, making it a great destination for fall adventures.