Few roads capture the beauty of autumn quite like Vermont’s Route 100. Stretching nearly the entire length of the state, this scenic byway is framed by rolling mountains, charming villages, covered bridges, and dazzling fall colors. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend adventure or a tourist arriving for the foliage season, a Route 100 road trip offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and small-town charm.
Planning Your Route 100 Fall Road Trip
The first step is timing. Vermont’s foliage generally peaks between late September and mid-October, though exact dates vary depending on elevation and weather. If you want the most color, plan your trip around the first two weeks of October.
Route 100 can be enjoyed in a single day, but to really soak it in, many travelers choose to spread the drive over two or three days. This allows time to stop at farm stands, explore side roads, and enjoy hikes or gondola rides without rushing. Keep in mind that Route 100 is not an interstate. It’s a meandering two-lane road, so build in time for slower driving and scenic pull-offs.
Northern Highlights: Stowe to Warren
Stowe
No fall trip to Vermont is complete without a stop in Stowe. Nestled in the mountains, Stowe is one of the most photographed towns in New England. Visit the white-steepled church framed by fiery maples, stroll through boutique shops, and stop at the town’s historic covered bridge. If you’re looking for panoramic views, ride the Stowe Mountain Resort gondola, which whisks you up Mount Mansfield for a bird’s-eye view of the foliage.
Waterbury
Just south of Stowe lies Waterbury, a foodie’s delight. Cold Hollow Cider Mill is a must for warm cider donuts and fresh-pressed apple cider. For those who want a taste of Vermont’s quirky side, the Ben & Jerry’s Factory offers tours and a scoop of your favorite flavor. This stop balances out your road trip with treats that feel quintessentially Vermont.
Waitsfield and Warren
Further down Route 100 you’ll enter the Mad River Valley, home to Waitsfield and Warren. These villages are rich in charm, featuring general stores, art galleries, and covered bridges perfect for a photo stop. Outdoor enthusiasts should make a stop at Warren Falls, a series of cascades and pools surrounded by colorful foliage. The valley’s rolling hills create a patchwork of reds, oranges, and yellows, making it one of the most scenic stretches of Route 100.
Central Route 100 Gems: Rochester to Ludlow
Rochester
Rochester is a small town with a big autumn personality. Its main street is lined with historic buildings, cafes, and shops, making it a great stop for a coffee break. This section of Route 100 also provides access to Green Mountain National Forest trails, where short hikes reward you with sweeping mountain views.
Pittsfield and Killington
Pittsfield is a quiet stop, but just down the road you’ll reach Killington, known for its ski slopes. In fall, the Killington gondola is a must, carrying visitors to the summit of Killington Peak. The view stretches across Vermont and into neighboring states, offering one of the most spectacular foliage panoramas in New England.
Ludlow and Okemo
As you continue south, Ludlow welcomes you with its small-town charm. Okemo Mountain Resort is the main attraction, offering scenic chairlift rides during fall weekends. After your ride, stroll Ludlow’s streets lined with shops and restaurants, or simply admire the foliage reflected in nearby lakes and ponds.
Southern Route 100 Treasures: Weston to Wilmington
Weston
Weston is home to one of Vermont’s most beloved attractions, the Vermont Country Store. This historic shop sells everything from penny candy to nostalgic toys, and it feels like stepping back in time. The town itself is framed by fiery foliage, making it a picture-perfect stop on your drive.
Jamaica and Townshend
If you want a quieter, more outdoorsy experience, stop in Jamaica or Townshend. Both towns are gateways to state parks filled with hiking trails and riverside picnic areas. These lesser-traveled parts of Route 100 let you enjoy the foliage in peace, away from the busiest tourist hubs.
Wilmington
Your final southern stop is Wilmington, a welcoming town with a vibrant downtown filled with galleries, shops, and restaurants. Just outside town, Mount Snow offers scenic chairlift rides, giving you another elevated view of Vermont’s fall beauty. Wilmington’s mix of small-town charm and mountain scenery makes it a fitting finale for your Route 100 trip.
Scenic Stops Along Route 100
- Moss Glen Falls (Granville): A roadside waterfall framed by colorful leaves.
- Lake Elmore: A peaceful spot to stretch your legs and take photos.
- Somerset Reservoir: A hidden gem surrounded by untouched forest.
- Covered Bridges: Look for bridges in Warren, Waitsfield, and beyond for classic Vermont photo opportunities.
Food and Drink Along Route 100
A fall road trip is best paired with local flavors. In September you may still find maple creemees, Vermont’s twist on soft serve. As the air turns cooler, swap it for a mug of hot cider. Breweries and distilleries along the route offer seasonal brews and craft spirits. Favorites include Lawson’s Finest Liquids in Waitsfield, Long Trail Brewing in Bridgewater, and Mad River Distillers. Don’t skip small diners and cafes, where homemade pies and hearty soups add to the cozy fall atmosphere.
Sample Itineraries
One-Day Trip: Stowe to Warren
If you only have one day, focus on the northern section. Start in Stowe, grab donuts in Waterbury, and end in Warren with a hike or a swim at the falls. This loop provides a snapshot of everything Route 100 has to offer.
Two-Day Weekend: Stowe to Ludlow
With two days, extend your trip south. Day one can cover Stowe to Warren. On day two, continue through Rochester and Killington before finishing in Ludlow. Stay overnight at a cozy inn or lodge to complete the experience.
Three-Day Full Route Adventure
For the ultimate Route 100 experience, take three days to travel from Stowe all the way to Wilmington. Spread out the driving and allow time for hikes, gondola rides, and leisurely meals. This option lets you see the entire scope of Vermont’s fall beauty, from the northern mountains to the southern valleys.
Tips for the Perfect Route 100 Fall Road Trip
- Start early: The road can get busy, and early mornings offer quieter drives and golden light.
- Expect traffic: Peak foliage draws crowds, so build in extra time.
- Book ahead: Inns and lodges fill quickly in October.
- Dress in layers: Vermont weather changes quickly in fall.
- Bring a camera: You’ll want to capture every turn of the road.
Conclusion
Route 100 is more than just a road; it’s an invitation to slow down and experience Vermont at its most beautiful. From iconic towns like Stowe to hidden gems in the southern valleys, every mile offers a new perspective on autumn’s colors. Whether you carve out a day, a weekend, or a full three-day journey, Route 100 promises to deliver an unforgettable fall road trip.
Leaf Peeping Crew, 30% Off
Cozy up for foliage season with our Leaf Peeping Crew hoodies and crewnecks. Soft fleece, easy fit, perfect for ridge walks and lakeside sunsets.
- Unisex fit and multiple colors
- Printed to order in the USA
- Ships directly to you
Limited time offer. Discount applied at checkout while the sale lasts.
Leave a reply to PVA Cancel reply