Fall in Vermont is spectacular — people come from all over the world to see the foliage.
Days are usually mild and nights turn crisp, and most summer activities are still going strong. It’s the perfect season for scenic drives, visits to nearby villages, hikes to colorful overlooks, and some of the region’s favorite festivals.
Chase the colors by car, on foot, by bike or from the water — then celebrate the season at one of the area’s fall festivals.
Few places show off fall like the Green Mountains. Drive scenic Routes 100, 100A and 4, wander through villages like Woodstock and historic Plymouth, find a covered bridge or two, and ride the K-1 Express Gondola toward the 4,241-foot summit for sweeping views of the color below. See scenic gondola details.
Where to go: Attractions & sightseeing
Cool, dry fall days are ideal for hiking. Trails range from beginner to advanced, with views from 4,000-foot peaks and routes through the Green Mountain National Forest. The Appalachian Trail and Long Trail pass right through Killington, and Thundering Brook Falls and Deer Leap make great day hikes.
Where to go: Guides & recreation | Gear shops
Ride through the foliage on lift-served trails at Killington Bike Park, cross-country singletrack at Pine Hill Park and Slate Valley Trails, or the area’s scenic paved and gravel roads. Rentals, shops and lessons are close at hand.
Where to go: Biking & lessons | Rentals & shops
See the foliage reflected on the water at Chittenden Reservoir, Kent Pond, Woodward Reservoir or Colton Pond, where most waters are motor-free. Anglers will find stocked trout, bass and perch in local lakes and streams — a Vermont fishing license is required.
Where to go: Paddling & fishing guides
Two 18-hole golf courses play into the fall, weather permitting, and some of the year’s most colorful rounds happen now. You can also explore Vermont’s roughly 1,700 miles of Class 4 roads and trails by ATV, or take a trail ride along the reservoir at Mountain Top Inn & Resort.
Where to go: Golf, tours & riding
Fall brings some of Killington’s favorite traditions: Killington Brewfest at Pico Mountain (a fall favorite since 1995), the family-friendly Harvest Faire at Snowshed, and the Spartan Race on the mountain’s steep terrain. KPAA’s own Killington Haunted House rounds out the season in October.
Where to go: See Annual Events | Events Calendar
Gondola summit views over the Green Mountain foliage.
Killington Brewfest at Pico Mountain, a fall tradition.
Routes 100, 100A and 4 for classic leaf-peeping drives.
The Appalachian Trail and Long Trail meet the foliage in Killington.
Peak foliage weekends fill up fast — book your stay early, then discover the restaurants, shops and local businesses that make a fall visit memorable. For gondola, golf and bike park details, see our Recreation and Seasonal Guides pages.