12 Smart, Fun, and Super Helpful Tips for Visiting Vermont During Foliage Season

Fall in Vermont is pure magic. From crisp mornings and blazing maples to winding back roads and maple creemees, there’s no better time to explore the Green Mountain State.

But here's the thing: you're not the only one who thinks so.

Foliage season in Vermont is gorgeous, but it’s also popular. To help you navigate it like a local (without the stress), we created this series!

Let’s dive in.

🍁 Tip #1: Book early. Seriously early.

Hotels, restaurants, and yes—even our private guided tours—fill up fast during foliage season. If Vermont is on your radar, make those reservations as soon as you can. You’ll thank yourself later.

🍁 Tip #2: Midweek > weekend.

Want those dreamy dirt roads and covered bridges all to yourself? Travel Tuesday through Thursday. Fewer crowds, better parking, and more peace.

🍁 Tip #3: Peak isn’t one weekend.

“Peak foliage” doesn’t happen everywhere at once. Northern mountains and higher elevations peak first, while southern valleys hang on to their leaves longer. Plan accordingly—or take more than one trip!

🍁 Tip #4: Back roads are better roads.

Route 100 is iconic, sure—but the real show is on the back roads. Winding dirt lanes, sleepy hollows, and blink-and-you’ll-miss-it villages. We built Vermont Wayfinders tours to help you discover these places without getting lost.

🍁 Tip #5: Rainy day? Still worth it.

Fog, fall color, and quiet roads? That’s moody magic. Bring a rain jacket and your sense of adventure. The mist makes everything glow.

🍁 Tip #6: Don’t just drive—wander.

Pull over. Walk the town green. Pop into the general store. Foliage season isn’t just about trees—it’s about feeling Vermont. Our private guided tours include plenty of time for this kind of unhurried wandering.

🍁 Tip #7: Maple everything. Try it.

Maple creemee? Absolutely. Maple latte? Yes. Maple BBQ sauce? Don’t knock it ‘til you try it. Fall is Vermont’s maple season; lean in.

🍁 Tip #8: Early October ≠ peak everywhere.

Planning a trip for the first or second week of October? Awesome! But check a foliage tracker or local updates to see where the color is best.

🍁 Tip #9: Layer like a local.

Frosty mornings. Sunny afternoons. Cold breezes under bright blue skies. You’ll want a mix of cozy and breathable. Pro tip: wool socks are never a bad idea.

🍁 Tip #10: Respect private property.

That dreamy red barn or hillside of trees? That’s someone’s backyard. Stay roadside or on public trails, and keep it neighborly. Vermonters notice—and appreciate it.

🍁 Tip #11: Fuel up—gas and snacks.

Some roads stretch a long way without a gas station or a grocery store. Top off your tank and grab some snacks before you head into the hills.

🍁 Tip #12: Make it more than a photo op.

Take the picture—but then take a breath. Listen to the leaves crunch underfoot. Smell the woodsmoke. That’s the real magic. Want to travel deeper, not just faster? Our audio tours share stories along the way—and our guided trips make it personal.

Ready to Leaf-Peep the Wayfinders Way?

Whether you’re here for a day or a week, Vermont Wayfinders is your guide to fall done right:

🍂 Explore self-guided audio tours (perfect for solo travelers or road-tripping pairs)
🍂 Book a private guided tour (we’ll build a whole day around your pace, interests, and the best colors)
🍂 Follow us on Instagram + Facebook for live foliage tips and behind-the-scenes Vermont magic

The trees will be waiting for you.
Let’s make a plan to go find them.