When I imagined the Vermont of my dreams it consisted of maple all the things, crisp autumn weather, and the most incredible fall foliage on Earth. My expectations were high, which is risky when visiting a new place, but I’m pleased to say Vermont exceeded them.
I don’t know of another spot with undulating mountain after mountain exploding in fiery reds, oranges, and yellows that rival the best sunset skies. Fall in Vermont is one of those things that you’ve got to see to believe.
So if you’re lucky enough to find yourself there during autumn, here are all the wonderful ways to fill your leaf peeping itinerary:
Where to Base Yourself and When to Go
This itinerary is based in the Burlington area where you’ll find a convenient airport, plenty of delicious restaurants and places to stay, and in my opinion the best leaf peeping in the state, particularly if you hit it at the peak which is often around the first week of October.
Keep in mind the peak can change year to year, and it’s usually a short window of time. That said, the first couple weeks of October are often a good bet, and if you’re not seeing much foliage in Burlington, head higher in elevation.
Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream
Who didn’t grow up eating Ben & Jerry’s? Whether Half Baked, Phish Food, or Cherry Garcia, I’ll own up to eating my own body weight in Ben & Jerry’s over my lifetime, which is why I had to go to the source when in the motherland.
We went for the strawberry cheesecake and cookie dough this time, and though I didn’t do a factory tour, it’s an option while you’re there to see how the creamy goodness is made (book here). I opted to enjoy the outside, watch people take pictures with the painted cow, and check out the flavor graveyard. RIP Schweddy Balls flavor.
Stowe
Onwards and upwards to Stowe, this quaint ski town becomes a leaf peeping mecca during the fall. The main street is adorable, with an old church and places to shop and eat, but the real magic is in the ski area.
Though a bit pricey at $35 per adult and $24 per child, the gondola is a great way to get an overview of the foliage without having to hike the mountain on foot. If you want to be able to get out and enjoy the scenery up top, be sure to get there well before the last ride at 4:15, which is only an up and back without being able to exit the gondola. We didn’t make it on time to get out and walk around up top, but the ride was still gorgeous nonetheless. Check out…
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