The 10 Prettiest Fall Foliage Routes to Drive in Vermont
There’s nothing quite like a Vermont autumn. Trees burst into color, farms brim with pumpkins, and every bend on a country road could be calendar-worthy. Vermont’s roads are legendary for leaf peeping, and it’s not just hype. You’ll see forests blazing in red, orange, and gold, with mountains and charming villages adding to the spectacle. Pack snacks, charge your camera, and get ready to chase some of the best fall views in New England.
This guide rounds up the most beautiful Vermont drives for soaking up fall color. Each route on this list offers something special, from covered bridges and historic towns to mountain passes and river valleys. So roll down your window, crank up your favorite playlist, and let’s hit the road Vermont-style!
Route 100: Vermont’s Classic Foliage Corridor
If you only have time for one foliage road in Vermont, make it Route 100. Often called the state’s “Skis to Spruce” route, this north-south highway runs through the heart of Vermont’s mountains and villages. You’ll cruise past waterfalls, rolling pastures, and dozens of photogenic spots.
Route 100 sports the full fall palette, thanks to abundant sugar maples. You’ll pass through towns like Stowe, Ludlow, and Weston, with inns and general stores practically begging you to stop for cider donuts. Find out all you need for a Route 100 Vermont fall foliage road trip.
Pro tip: Watch for the Moss Glen Falls turnout near Granville. It’s a classic stop, and the short walk is worth it.
Smugglers’ Notch: A Dramatic Mountain Pass
Smugglers’ Notch packs a lot of scenery into a short stretch. Route 108 twists and turns between towering cliffs and boulder fields just north of Stowe. The notch is lined with maple and birch, so when fall hits, the colors get intense.
Smugglers’ Notch closes for winter, but in October it’s a foliage wonderland. The road is narrow and curvy, so take it slow. Hikers and families flock here, so expect some company, but the views are worth every minute.
Read more about what to expect and how to plan your visit with this detailed guide to Vermont scenic drives.
Mad River Byway: Villages and River Views
The Mad River Byway runs for about 36 miles along Routes 100 and 100B, weaving through the Mad River Valley’s rolling hills and storybook towns. Stops like Waitsfield and Warren are packed with charm, and the river itself is a stunner in the morning mist.
This route is prime territory for finding covered bridges, farm stands, and classic New England architecture backed by mountains in full color. Don’t miss the weekly farmers market in Waitsfield if you’re passing through on a Saturday.
Scenic Route 17: Appalachian Gap
Route 17, also called the Appalachian Gap, is a favorite for adventurers and those who love a little elevation. The drive climbs steeply from the Champlain Valley up through forests to the stunning viewpoint at the top of the Gap.
From the overlook, you can see colorful valleys stretching for miles. Cyclists and hikers flock here, but any driver can enjoy jaw-dropping leaf views from the comfort of the car. Early season brings the brightest hues at these higher elevations.
Green Mountain Byway: Lakes, Peaks, and Quaint Towns
The Green Mountain Byway links Waterbury and Stowe, following Route 100 north. Though it’s short, just 11 miles, it punches way above its weight for diversity and charm. You’ll pass lakes, rolling farmland, and have a clear view of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s tallest peak.
Stowe is at its best in autumn, with a walkable downtown and plenty of fall festivals. Make sure to stop for a stroll on the Stowe Recreation Path or grab a snack at a roadside bakery.
Northeast Kingdom Byway: Untamed Beauty
The Northeast Kingdom feels a bit wilder and farther north, so colors often pop earlier here. This byway covers over 50 miles from St. Johnsbury to Newport, traveling through small towns, pastureland, and woodlands packed with red and sugar maples.
Lake Willoughby, one of the highlights, looks like it’s straight out of a painting, especially with the cliffs ablaze in gold and orange. This region also has fantastic wildlife viewing, so bring your binoculars.
Lake Champlain Byway: Water Views and Vineyard Stops
Running along Vermont’s west edge, the Lake Champlain Byway travels through rolling farmland, apple orchards, and along the edge of the lake itself. This drive gives you plenty of leaf colors plus blue water and mountain backdrops.
Stop in towns like Shelburne or Charlotte for apple picking, or visit one of the region’s local wineries for a taste of Vermont-grown grapes. Sunsets here are a bonus that’s hard to beat.
Molly Stark Byway: History and Hikes
Named after Revolutionary War hero General John Stark’s wife, the Molly Stark Byway travels east to west on Route 9 between Brattleboro and Bennington. This route rolls through the Berkshires’ foothills and features vibrant hardwood forests along every mile.
Along the way, you’ll spot historic homes, covered bridges, and some of the best mountain hikes in southern Vermont. Autumn here comes with local festivals and a bit less traffic than more famous routes.
Route 7A: Classic Vermont Villages
Old Route 7A (separate from the newer, faster Route 7) keeps things slow and scenic. This stretch between Bennington and Manchester passes some of Vermont’s prettiest villages—think white steeples, brick storefronts, and stone walls.
Manchester is a great base to explore, with shops, hiking, and local eats. Plus, you can visit Hildene, the Lincoln family home, which is surrounded by incredible foliage.
Mount Ascutney Parkway: Panoramic Summit Views
If you want a mountain summit without a long hike, Mount Ascutney is your spot. The Mount Ascutney Parkway is a 3.7-mile auto road that winds up to a parking area near the summit. The drive itself is lined with crimson and gold trees, but the real treat comes at the top.
From a short summit trail, you get panoramic views of the Connecticut River Valley and, on clear days, even into New Hampshire. Autumn color lasts a touch longer at lower elevations near the river.
Planning Your Vermont Foliage Trip
Vermont’s fall foliage is world famous for a reason. Depending on the weather, colors start popping in the north and higher elevations in mid-September, then sweep southward and downhill through October. For live updates before your trip, take a glance at the Vermont Fall Foliage Guide and Reports and consult a real-time fall foliage map with peak color forecasts. Book your accommodations early—this is prime time, and cozy inns fill fast!
Scenic drives in Vermont deliver unforgettable views, no matter the route. Whether you’re after mountain vistas or lakeside displays, there’s a road here ready to wow you. So gas up, keep your camera handy, and enjoy every twisty, colorful mile.
Ready for more adventure inspiration? Take a look at Midwest road trip guides and seasonal trip ideas for every kind of traveler at DayTripper’s destination guides for more local favorites!
