Vermont Fall Foliage Guide: Best Hiking, Scenic Drives, & Maple Syrup Treats.
Vermont: Where We Coddiwompled for Cider, Scenic Drives & Found a Maple Creamie Obsession.
Ever heard of a place that's basically Mother Nature's ultimate flex? Well, that's Vermont, especially when it throws on its autumn outfit! If you're tired of boring, beige existence and ready to dive headfirst into a pile of vibrant leaves, challenging trails (that might leave you questioning your life choices, but in a good way!), and enough maple syrup to make a pancake weep with joy, then you've stumbled upon the right blog.
This month on Alesto Trails, we're unleashing our hilariously unhinged guide to conquering the Green Mountain State. Prepare for laughs, gasps, and possibly a few sticky fingers.
Hiking Trails: Where Your Legs Go to Get Famous (and Sore!)
Think you're a mountain goat? Vermont's hiking trails are here to test that theory! During fall foliage season, these trails are so stunning, you might accidentally trip because you're too busy lollygagging .
For the brave souls, consider scrambling up Mount Mansfield or the magnificent Camel’s Hump the third highest mt. If you prefer a shorter, but still "I-can-feel-my-quads-burning" kind of climb, the Stowe Pinnacle trail delivers a panoramic punch that makes every step worth it. It is a 2 mile trail but takes about 3 hours round trip.
Adventure Rule #1: Don't Be Trashy! Seriously, folks. If Bigfoot is clean camping, so can you. When you explore the wild, practice Leave No Trace. Pack out everything you pack in—including that empty beer can and the wrapper from your summit snack. It keeps the trails beautiful, and trust us, nobody wants to see our favorite raccoon mascot giving you the side-eye.
Forget everything you think you know about soft-serve; the Vermont Maple Creamie is an absolute game-changer. It's the iconic, soul-soothing, pure Vermont maple syrup infused soft-serve that is so unbelievably good, you'll immediately start calculating if you can consume it by the gallon. Warning: this heavenly treat will instantly ruin all other ice creams for you, and we take no responsibility for the new level of obsession you'll have with it. Go ahead, get two—you've earned it! My favorite was from the Vermont Maple Outlet and Bragg Farm.
Let's be honest, you came to Vermont for the sugar.: Maple Syrup. This glorious "liquid gold" is Vermont's most famous export, and yes, we encourage you to treat it like a serious investment. Hit up a few maple syrup farms (like the legendary Runamok Maple) for tours and tastings. You'll learn how this miracle is made—from tree to table—and realize why you absolutely need to fill a carry-on bag with it. We're not judging your sticky luggage choices. The salted caramel Runamok syrup is to die for!
And to complete your authentic Vermont culinary tour, you'll need to find the best place to get cider in Vermont. We stopped at Cold Hollow Cider Mill which is a magnificent trap of deliciousness, famous for pressing some of the best cider in the land using an antique press (which you can totally watch like a culinary voyeur). But let's be real: the true stars here are the Legendary Cider Donuts. Grab a hot bag of these little cinnamon-sugar miracles and an ice-cold cider slushie (or a hard cider if you’re feeling extra adventurous)—it’s the Vermont roadside stop that officially ruins all other donuts forever.
Scenic Drives & Iconic Views (No Hiking Required!)
Forget the idea of actually hiking up Mount Mansfield—your legs already did enough work finding the best Maple Creamies! Instead, treat yourself to the effortless glamour of the Mount Mansfield Gondola tour in Stowe. This is your chance to cheat your way to an epic view, soaring comfortably above the fall foliage like a majestic, slightly lazy eagle. Go ahead, snap those panoramic photos; nobody needs to know the most strenuous part of your journey was deciding which flavor of candy bar to buy at the summit gift shop. It’s a spectacular view without the sweat equity, and frankly, that's just smart adventuring.
Ready to test your driving skills and your car's turn radius? Then you're ready for Smugglers' Notch! This famously rugged, winding mountain pass is so narrow and twisty, it practically requires a steering wheel with a "panic button." It got its name because folks used it to sneak contraband (like rum during Prohibition!), and honestly, navigating these sheer cliffs and hairpin turns still feels a bit illegal. Do NOT bring your RV, or you might end up immortalized on a "Stuck in the Notch" postcard. This road is not suitable for large RVs, Busses nor semi trucks as it is narrow in some spots. Other scenic drives in Vermont are world-renowned, especially during peak foliage. The famous Route 100 is considered one of the most scenic roads in all of New England, winding through valleys and small, picturesque towns. It’s a road trip highlight reel!
And speaking of picturesque, you have to get a photo of the Stowe Community Church. This striking white steeple, set against a magnificent mountain backdrop of color, is basically the supermodel of New England architecture. It’s that perfect.
Keep an eye out for other winding, wet roads enveloped in autumn color. It’s the perfect way to spend a crisp afternoon getting completely lost (and finding yourself again).
Before You Go: Planning Your Vermont Trip
Whether you’re a serious hiker ready to explore the wild or just looking for a relaxing scenic drive and a delicious maple creamie, a trip to the Green Mountain State is an experience that connects you with nature and local tradition.
Remember to book accommodations and attractions like the Mount Mansfield gondola in advance, especially during peak fall foliage season, and always embrace the craft of a well-planned adventure!
Don't Forget the Dog!
Here’s some tail-wagging news: Vermont is practically the most dog-friendly state in the Northeast! From patios at breweries and cider mills to the miles of Vermont hiking trails (just check leash laws!), your adventure buddy doesn't have to stay home. Pack the leash, the snacks, and their favorite bandanna—they’re welcome to experience the fall foliage and maybe even score a sample of that maple-goodness (in a dog-safe treat, of course!).
