Vermont

29 Jun 2026

Vermont fall foliage road trip - Stowe to the Green Mountains

Vermont Fall Foliage Road Trip Overview

This road trip from Stowe into the Green Mountains is designed as a classic Vermont fall foliage experience, blending scenic drives, easy outdoor stops, mountain views, and local flavors. Begin in Stowe, where the Stowe Recreation Path offers a relaxed introduction to the region’s colorful autumn landscape, with views of rivers, fields, bridges, and surrounding peaks. Nearby, the Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center adds a peaceful alpine atmosphere and excellent opportunities for short walks and panoramic leaf-peeping.

Continue toward Smugglers’ Notch State Park and the Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road for some of the most dramatic mountain scenery on the trip. These stops bring you close to steep cliffs, forested passes, and elevated viewpoints where the reds, oranges, and yellows of the season spread across the valleys below. For a quieter nature stop, Moss Glen Falls offers a beautiful waterfall framed by fall color and makes a perfect place to stretch your legs and take photos.

To add a local Vermont touch, stop at Cold Hollow Cider Mill for fresh cider, cider donuts, and regional specialties that fit the mood of an autumn road trip. As the route continues southward, Green Mountain National Forest provides a grand finale, with broad forest views, scenic byways, and a deeper sense of Vermont’s rugged beauty. Altogether, this itinerary is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of iconic foliage sights, short activities, and memorable roadside experiences.

Recommended Activities

1
Stowe Recreation Path
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A scenic, easygoing way to experience peak fall color in Stowe, with mountain views, covered bridges, river stretches, and classic Vermont farmland along the route. It is ideal for walking or biking and offers some of the town’s most photogenic foliage scenery.
2
Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center
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This area combines sweeping alpine-style views with beautiful wooded trails, making it a great stop for leaf peeping and light outdoor activity. The setting is especially appealing in autumn, with colorful hillsides and a peaceful atmosphere tied to the historic von Trapp property.
3
Smugglers' Notch State Park
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One of Vermont’s most dramatic fall foliage destinations, known for its narrow mountain pass, towering cliffs, and dense forest glowing with autumn color. The drive and short hikes here deliver classic Green Mountain scenery and some of the most memorable landscape views on a Stowe road trip.
4
Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road
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This is one of the best ways to reach high-elevation views in Vermont with minimal effort, making it especially rewarding during fall foliage season. The drive climbs toward Mount Mansfield, where you can enjoy sweeping panoramas of colorful forests, mountain ridgelines, and the surrounding valleys.
5
Moss Glen Falls
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A classic Vermont waterfall stop, Moss Glen Falls is easy to visit and especially scenic in autumn when the surrounding trees turn bright shades of red, orange, and gold. It is a great short stop for photos, a peaceful nature break, and a picturesque contrast to the road trip’s mountain drives.
6
Cold Hollow Cider Mill
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This is a fun and distinctly Vermont stop that adds local flavor to a foliage trip. Visitors come for fresh apple cider, cider donuts, and regional products, making it a cozy autumn experience that pairs perfectly with scenic driving through the countryside.
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Green Mountain National Forest
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It offers some of the broadest and most iconic fall foliage scenery in Vermont, with winding scenic roads, forested mountain slopes, overlooks, and access to hikes that showcase the Green Mountains at their most colorful. It is a perfect finale for a road trip from Stowe, giving you a deeper, more expansive experience of Vermont’s autumn landscape.

Restaurants

Barbarian
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5
Trending now
Barbarian
Chef-led restaurant in Stowe that is newly slated to open in June 2026, with an Instagram-forward launch and a bold, high-end diner concept that is already generating early buzz. Because it is brand new and positioning itself as a distinctive, chef-driven destination on Mountain Road, it fits the current “hot opening” profile rather than an established classic.
5
Wolfpeach Superfood at SALT + GROVE
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4.9
Trending now
Wolfpeach Superfood at SALT + GROVE
A newly opened wellness kitchen inside SALT + GROVE, featured in recent Stowe-area food/wellness posts and explicitly promoted as a fresh opening with a current menu and Instagram updates. It’s getting early attention for its “nourishing” bowls, lattes, smoothies, and public access in a resort town where new concept openings tend to spread quickly on social and local food blogs.
4.9

Hen of the Wood
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Hen of the Wood
Frequently praised on Eater for being one of Vermont’s standout dining experiences and often recommended on Reddit for a special meal, this Waterbury restaurant is worth visiting for its refined farmhouse style, seasonal Vermont ingredients, and strong local reputation.
Doc Ponds
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4.6
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Doc Ponds
A popular Stowe stop that comes up often in Reddit trip planning threads for its lively atmosphere, strong beer list, and comfort food. It is a good casual choice during a foliage road trip, especially if you want elevated pub fare in the center of Stowe.
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Harrison’s Restaurant & Bar
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Harrison’s Restaurant & Bar
Commonly mentioned by travelers looking for a dependable Stowe dinner, Harrison’s is appreciated for hearty American food, a welcoming setting, and a convenient Main Street location that fits well into a day of sightseeing.
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The Bench
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4.4
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The Bench
Often recommended on Reddit for a relaxed meal in Stowe, The Bench is known for wood-fired cooking, pizza, smoked meats, and a comfortable tavern feel. It works especially well for an easy dinner after hiking or scenic driving.
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Prohibition Pig
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4.5
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Prohibition Pig
Widely recognized in Vermont food coverage and regularly suggested on Reddit, this Waterbury favorite is worth a stop for barbecue, creative comfort food, and a notable craft beer program. It is an excellent option when driving between Stowe and the Green Mountains.
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Hotels

Green Mountain Inn
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4.6
Green Mountain Inn
A classic stay in the heart of Stowe that is well suited to a fall foliage road trip thanks to its historic character, walkable Main Street location, and easy access to shops, dining, and scenic drives.
4.6
Trapp Family Lodge
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Trapp Family Lodge
A standout lodging option for travelers who want mountain views, a distinctive Vermont atmosphere, and direct access to beautiful grounds and outdoor activities during peak foliage season.
Topnotch Resort
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4.2
Topnotch Resort
A comfortable resort choice near Stowe with a more upscale feel, convenient access to local attractions, and a setting that works well for relaxing after scenic drives and short hikes.
4.2
The Lodge at Spruce Peak
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The Lodge at Spruce Peak
Ideal if you want a luxury mountain stay with dramatic scenery, strong amenities, and close proximity to Mount Mansfield and some of the area’s best fall views.
Best Western Plus Waterbury - Stowe
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4.5
Best Western Plus Waterbury - Stowe
A practical and well-located base between Waterbury and Stowe, making it a good choice for travelers who want convenient access to both local dining and the road trip route into the Green Mountains.
4.5

Local Events & Happenings

Graham Nash
Graham Nash
The event will take place at Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center in Stowe.
Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center in Stowe (7.39 mi)
17 Sep 2026
Visit Website
Jack White (Children 12 and under are FREE)
Jack White (Children 12 and under are FREE)
The event will take place at Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction.
Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction (18.54 mi)
15 Jul 2026
Visit Website

Weird Al Yankovic w/ Puddles Pity Party
Weird Al Yankovic w/ Puddles Pity Party
The event will take place at Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction.
Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction (18.54 mi)
24 Jul 2026
Visit Website
Warren Zeiders
Warren Zeiders
The event will take place at Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction.
Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction (18.54 mi)
28 Aug 2026
Visit Website
Jordan Davis w/ Matt Lang
Jordan Davis w/ Matt Lang
The event will take place at Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction.
Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction (18.54 mi)
29 Aug 2026
Visit Website
Monster Truck - A Night of Fire and Destruction
Monster Truck - A Night of Fire and Destruction
The event will take place at Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction.
Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction (18.54 mi)
30 Aug 2026
Visit Website
Figure 8 Racing
Figure 8 Racing
The event will take place at Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction.
Champlain Valley Exposition in Essex Junction (18.54 mi)
2 Sep 2026
Visit Website

Travel Gems from Reddit

If you want good foliage youll have to do the windy roads. Drive route 100 through the green Mountain national forest up to the North East Kingdom. It has lots of pull offs an...
Easy scenic fall drives in Vermont? And what are some good parks and scenic areas for a solo traveler?
If you want good foliage youll have to do the windy roads. Drive route 100 through the green Mountain national forest up to the North East Kingdom. It has lots of pull offs an...
/r/vermont
View on Reddit
The best part about Vermont foliage is that if you're looking for it, you can drive an hour and find it. If Stowe is past peak, go over to Richmond/Williston.
Stowe fall foliage
The best part about Vermont foliage is that if you're looking for it, you can drive an hour and find it. If Stowe is past peak, go over to Richmond/Williston.
/r/vermont
View on Reddit

The foliage in the higher elevation stone of southern Vermont is changing rapidly and nearing peak. ... I live right outside of Montpelier, so Im there basically everyday and ...
Help needed! Planning to visit VT next week for fall foliage! Is this the best time or 2nd week of October?
The foliage in the higher elevation stone of southern Vermont is changing rapidly and nearing peak. ... I live right outside of Montpelier, so Im there basically everyday and ...
/r/NewToVermont
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Used to live in Mass many years ago. Used to vacation, ski, play hockey in NH and VT. Im a mountain (and fly fishing) addict and have experienced
Best place in VT for fall foliage
Used to live in Mass many years ago. Used to vacation, ski, play hockey in NH and VT. Im a mountain (and fly fishing) addict and have experienced
/r/vermont
View on Reddit
If you are coming over a weekend I recommend booking ASAP. I'm hearing that a lot of places are booked already. I recommend the Mad River Valley - Waitsfield/Warren area....
Which Town should we Visit in the Fall? Family Trip!
If you are coming over a weekend I recommend booking ASAP. I'm hearing that a lot of places are booked already. I recommend the Mad River Valley - Waitsfield/Warren area....
/r/vermont
View on Reddit
too late. id stay south of middlebury for decent foliage that time of year. go to manchester/rutland. ... I went 1st week in oct last year and it was too early. I'm plann...
Peak foliage in Stowe
too late. id stay south of middlebury for decent foliage that time of year. go to manchester/rutland. ... I went 1st week in oct last year and it was too early. I'm plann...
/r/vermont
View on Reddit
A good rule of thumb is the week before Columbus/Indigenous Peoples Day for Stowe/Waterbury/NEK, another week or two for Burlington, and another week or two for the southern p...
Looking for the Perfect Fall Getaway (Oct 1620) Vermont or Elsewhere?
A good rule of thumb is the week before Columbus/Indigenous Peoples Day for Stowe/Waterbury/NEK, another week or two for Burlington, and another week or two for the southern p...
/r/vermont
View on Reddit
go to stowe. hard to match the beauty of those mountains. if you can carve an hour for a ride north , jay peak has some great views as well ... You want some nice foliage, del...
Best weekend to see foliage in Stowe
go to stowe. hard to match the beauty of those mountains. if you can carve an hour for a ride north , jay peak has some great views as well ... You want some nice foliage, del...
/r/vermont
View on Reddit
If you're looking for a picture-esqu VT town, I would go to Stowe, although it will be touristy. Honestly, the best way to see Vermont's foliage is to rent a car and...
Best Amtrak Stops for Viewing Fall Foliage?
If you're looking for a picture-esqu VT town, I would go to Stowe, although it will be touristy. Honestly, the best way to see Vermont's foliage is to rent a car and...
/r/vermont
View on Reddit
Stowe in vermont. More adding to this yet but... Open to all the suggestions you guys would have for us. ... This will likely be late as many leaves are already starting to fa...
Fall Peak 2025
Stowe in vermont. More adding to this yet but... Open to all the suggestions you guys would have for us. ... This will likely be late as many leaves are already starting to fa...
/r/vermont
View on Reddit
The peak around Stowe is usually late-September, with this year likely earlier due to less than normal rainfall. ... The colors in northern Vermont start in the Northeast King...
Best weekend for peak foliage in Vermont Sept 27 or Oct 6?
The peak around Stowe is usually late-September, with this year likely earlier due to less than normal rainfall. ... The colors in northern Vermont start in the Northeast King...
/r/vermont
View on Reddit
Where I am (near Stowe) we have a little bit of color (maybe 1% now) but that is typical most years here - I dont consider it alarming. ... Come earlier, if thats very importa...
Fall Foliage + Dark Sky Recommendations? OCT 10-12
Where I am (near Stowe) we have a little bit of color (maybe 1% now) but that is typical most years here - I dont consider it alarming. ... Come earlier, if thats very importa...
/r/vermont
View on Reddit
It's lovely and very desirable for tourists but I wouldn't go near that traffic (there's only one road going in and out so you won't be able to avoid it). ...
Fall Trip - October 2025
It's lovely and very desirable for tourists but I wouldn't go near that traffic (there's only one road going in and out so you won't be able to avoid it). ...
/r/vermont
View on Reddit
Typically good colour into last week of September, first week of October. Earlier than Detroit area due to elevation. Highly recommend Sinclair Inn B&B if you're into tha...
Fall road trip to Vermont
Typically good colour into last week of September, first week of October. Earlier than Detroit area due to elevation. Highly recommend Sinclair Inn B&B if you're into tha...
/r/roadtrip
View on Reddit
Stay at the Sagamore, $$$$ Killer views from the lake OFC with only one day you'll never see the whole state in mid-October's daylight ... Rt 100 is a classic. It fo...
what's the best road to drive accross green mountain national forest?
Stay at the Sagamore, $$$$ Killer views from the lake OFC with only one day you'll never see the whole state in mid-October's daylight ... Rt 100 is a classic. It fo...
/r/vermont
View on Reddit
Stowe is the last place I'd want to go during foliage season. Fighting the crowds in restaurants. Sitting in traffic on the roads. Blech. There is so much more to Vermont...
Foliage ( Stowe) first time visit
Stowe is the last place I'd want to go during foliage season. Fighting the crowds in restaurants. Sitting in traffic on the roads. Blech. There is so much more to Vermont...
/r/vermont
View on Reddit
On the other side of the green mountains theres the Mad River Valley near Waterbury. It could be fun to drive and hike off of Lincoln Gap near Warren. Visit Canteen Creemee an...
Fall foliage
On the other side of the green mountains theres the Mad River Valley near Waterbury. It could be fun to drive and hike off of Lincoln Gap near Warren. Visit Canteen Creemee an...
/r/vermont
View on Reddit
Vermont Fall Road Trip . Hello everyone, I am planning a trip to New England this October in hopes of doing some hiking, exploring some small towns and of course hoping to cat...
Vermont Fall Road Trip
Vermont Fall Road Trip . Hello everyone, I am planning a trip to New England this October in hopes of doing some hiking, exploring some small towns and of course hoping to cat...
/r/vermont
View on Reddit
You might be getting the tail end of it so some of the trees will be more bare than others, but I still think you could get some good photos out of the trip. I've heard p...
Late Fall Foliage?
You might be getting the tail end of it so some of the trees will be more bare than others, but I still think you could get some good photos out of the trip. I've heard p...
/r/vermont
View on Reddit

Vermont fall foliage road trip - Stowe to the Green Mountains

Vermont Fall Foliage Road Trip Overview

Recommended Activities

Stowe Recreation Path

Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center

Smugglers' Notch State Park

Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road

Moss Glen Falls

Cold Hollow Cider Mill

Green Mountain National Forest

Restaurants

Barbarian

Barbarian

Wolfpeach Superfood at SALT + GROVE

Wolfpeach Superfood at SALT + GROVE

Hen of the Wood

Hen of the Wood

Doc Ponds

Doc Ponds

Harrison’s Restaurant & Bar

Harrison’s Restaurant & Bar

The Bench

The Bench

Prohibition Pig

Prohibition Pig

Hotels

Green Mountain Inn

Green Mountain Inn

Trapp Family Lodge

Trapp Family Lodge

Topnotch Resort

Topnotch Resort

The Lodge at Spruce Peak

The Lodge at Spruce Peak

Best Western Plus Waterbury - Stowe

Best Western Plus Waterbury - Stowe

Local Events & Happenings

Graham Nash

Graham Nash

Jack White (Children 12 and under are FREE)

Jack White (Children 12 and under are FREE)

Weird Al Yankovic w/ Puddles Pity Party

Weird Al Yankovic w/ Puddles Pity Party

Warren Zeiders

Warren Zeiders

Jordan Davis w/ Matt Lang

Jordan Davis w/ Matt Lang

Monster Truck - A Night of Fire and Destruction

Monster Truck - A Night of Fire and Destruction

Figure 8 Racing

Figure 8 Racing

Travel Gems from Reddit

Easy scenic fall drives in Vermont? And what are some good parks and scenic areas for a solo traveler?

Stowe fall foliage

Help needed! Planning to visit VT next week for fall foliage! Is this the best time or 2nd week of October?

Best place in VT for fall foliage

Which Town should we Visit in the Fall? Family Trip!

Peak foliage in Stowe

Looking for the Perfect Fall Getaway (Oct 1620) Vermont or Elsewhere?

Best weekend to see foliage in Stowe

Best Amtrak Stops for Viewing Fall Foliage?

Fall Peak 2025

Best weekend for peak foliage in Vermont Sept 27 or Oct 6?

Fall Foliage + Dark Sky Recommendations? OCT 10-12

Fall Trip - October 2025

Fall road trip to Vermont

what's the best road to drive accross green mountain national forest?

Foliage ( Stowe) first time visit

Fall foliage

Vermont Fall Road Trip

Late Fall Foliage?