Avoiding Crowds During Fall Foliage in Vermont

Fall in Vermont is one of the most photographed and celebrated times of the year. The leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, drawing visitors from around the world. While the scenery is breathtaking, the surge of leaf peepers can sometimes make the experience feel less peaceful. Luckily, there are many ways to enjoy Vermont’s foliage season without getting caught in heavy traffic or long lines.

Why Vermont Gets So Busy in Fall

Vermont is considered one of the best places in the world to see autumn leaves. From the first week of October through mid-month, crowds flock to popular destinations like Stowe, Woodstock, and Smugglers’ Notch. On peak weekends, these areas can become congested, with parking lots full and restaurants booked solid. Knowing about alternative routes, towns, and timing can transform your foliage trip into a much more relaxed adventure.

Choosing the Right Timing

• Visit midweek: Tuesdays through Thursdays are usually quieter than weekends.
• Go early or late: Sunrise and sunset hours not only provide stunning lighting but also fewer people on trails and roads.
• Arrive before or after peak: Late September and late October may not have peak color everywhere, but the scenery is still beautiful and much less crowded.

Exploring Less-Traveled Scenic Routes

Route 100 is Vermont’s most famous foliage drive, but that means everyone else is there too. Try these alternatives:

• Route 12: Running between Montpelier and Woodstock, this route passes rolling farmland and quiet towns.
• Route 14: A slower, winding route through central Vermont with fewer tourists.
• Route 5A: A Northeast Kingdom favorite that runs by Lake Willoughby, offering spectacular mountain views with less traffic.
• Champlain Islands: Drive across bridges and causeways connecting the islands, where maple trees and lake views combine for a unique foliage trip.

Small Towns With Big Color (and Smaller Crowds)

Some towns are just as beautiful as Vermont’s well-known hubs but come without the same crowds:

• Montgomery: A village near Jay Peak with classic covered bridges and mountain backdrops.
• Grafton: A picture-perfect southern Vermont town with historic charm.
• Greensboro: Home to Caspian Lake and rural landscapes, offering serenity in the Northeast Kingdom.
• Rochester: A White River Valley town surrounded by forested hills and less-traveled by tourists.
• Hardwick: A small agricultural town that feels far removed from tourist buses.

Hidden Hiking Gems Away from the Crowds

Hiking is one of the best ways to experience Vermont’s foliage, but popular peaks like Mt. Mansfield and Camel’s Hump can be packed on weekends. Try these alternatives:

• Owl’s Head in Groton State Forest: A short hike with panoramic views.
• Haystack Mountain in Wilmington: A less-trafficked southern Vermont hike with rewarding vistas.
• Sterling Pond: Near Smugglers’ Notch, this trail is quieter on weekdays and features a reflective alpine pond surrounded by color.

Always bring layers, water, and respect trail etiquette. Fall hikes can be cool in the morning and warm by midday.

Local Tips for Dining Without the Wait

Restaurants in Stowe and Woodstock often have long waits during foliage season. Consider these approaches:

• General stores and farm cafés: Many serve hearty sandwiches, soups, and baked goods without the long wait times.
• Reservations: If you do plan to dine in tourist-heavy towns, book dinner reservations well ahead.
• Breweries, cideries, and farm stands: Vermont is full of small producers offering relaxed atmospheres and seasonal food.

Overnight Stays Beyond the Hotspots

Finding lodging in October can be challenging if you only search in major towns. Instead, look for:

• Inns and B&Bs in small towns: Places like Craftsbury, Tunbridge, or Island Pond have charming accommodations without the rush.
• Northeast Kingdom stays: This region is known for wide open spaces and far fewer visitors.
• Champlain Islands rentals: Cottages and cabins offer lakeside tranquility.
• Vacation rentals: Renting a cabin or farmhouse outside popular hubs ensures both peace and privacy.

Practical Planning Strategies

• Use backroads: Google Maps and paper maps can guide you along scenic detours that avoid traffic jams.
• Avoid festival weekends: Events like Oktoberfests and harvest fairs bring big crowds, so schedule around them if you want quiet.
• Bring supplies: Keep snacks and water in the car so you don’t have to rely on packed cafés.
• Stay flexible: Weather, timing, and traffic can shift quickly in fall. Flexibility often leads to unexpected discoveries.

Enjoying Vermont Like a Local

Some of the most rewarding foliage experiences come when you slow down. Instead of rushing from one famous overlook to the next, take time to explore farmers markets, general stores, or roadside stands. Chatting with locals or stumbling upon a small-town harvest fair can be just as memorable as a photo from a crowded lookout.

By seeking out these authentic experiences, you’ll not only avoid the crowds but also discover the Vermont that residents love year-round.

Final Thoughts

Vermont’s foliage season is magical, and you don’t need to share it with hundreds of other tourists to enjoy it. By traveling midweek, exploring less-traveled routes, hiking hidden trails, and choosing smaller towns, you can create a peaceful autumn getaway. The beauty of Vermont lies in its variety of landscapes and communities, many of which remain quiet even during peak season. With a little planning, your fall trip can feel both personal and unforgettable.