Aerial view of a winding road through vibrant autumn forest and distant mountain.

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Where (and When) to See Every Shade of Fall in Stowe

Stowe is a place that wears its colors boldly in autumn, and with good reason. From fiery sugar maples to golden birch groves, the hillsides become a kaleidoscope that draws travelers far and wide. But here’s the secret: peak foliage doesn’t arrive all at once, it unfolds over several weeks, flowing from the mountaintops to the village below. Timing your visit and knowing the best places to go can make all the difference between catching a glimpse of peak color and standing in the heart of an unforgettable fall canvas.

Highland cow in a colorful autumn field with vibrant trees.

Timing is Everything

The season typically begins in mid to late September, when the highest elevations—like the ridges of Mt. Mansfield and the winding road through Smugglers’ Notch—ignite first. These early bursts of scarlet and orange set the stage for the weeks to come. By late September into early October, the region typically reaches peak foliage, with mid-elevations bursting into brilliant reds, oranges, and golds that blanket hillsides, backroads, and hiking trails. The village of Stowe and its surrounding valleys often hold onto their color the longest, with golden birches and sugar maples lingering well into mid-October.

This gradual progression means that no matter when you visit during the season, you’re likely to encounter incredible scenery—whether it’s the dramatic early shades at the summit, the rolling hillsides at peak, or the softer, glowing tones that carry the season into late October. From Stowe, it’s easy to “chase” the colors as they move across Vermont: head north for earlier peaks, or south to find lingering golds and reds later in the season. Using Stowe as your home base, you can follow the hues in every direction, making each day of your trip a new perspective on Vermont’s most colorful time of year.

Where to Catch Color: Highlights Across Elevation

Autumn landscape with colorful trees, village, and mountains at sunset.

Everywhere

In Stowe, you don’t have to search for foliage—it finds you. From the moment you arrive, every hillside, village road, and forest edge is lit up in brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold. Even a simple drive into town or a stroll to grab coffee can turn into a postcard-worthy moment.

Smugglers’ Notch

Winding between sheer cliffs and dense forest, this mountain pass is a must-see when the leaves change. In autumn, the narrow road becomes a tunnel of color, with every curve revealing another burst of brilliance. Pull-offs along the way invite you to stop, step out, and take it all in.

Wiessner Woods

For a quieter, more contemplative walk, Wiessner Woods offers shaded trails beneath golden leaves and soft forest light. It’s a perfect spot for families, dog walkers, or anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the stillness of the season.

The Gondola SkyRide

Glide above the canopy at Stowe Mountain Resort for a bird’s-eye view of fall’s fiery display. The gondola ride carries you up Mt. Mansfield, offering a perspective that layers color and mountains into one unforgettable vista.

Stowe Recreation Path

This gentle, 5.3-mile trail is one of the best ways to see foliage at your own pace. Winding through meadows, alongside rivers, and over wooden bridges, it’s an easy stroll or bike ride with plenty of colorful backdrops along the way.

Mt. Mansfield Auto Toll Road

Climb Vermont’s highest peak by car and watch the landscape transform as you rise through the foliage layers. From the top, sweeping views stretch across Stowe Valley and beyond, with rolling ridgelines painted in peak color—a panorama you’ll never forget.

Insider's Tip

Fall is one of the busiest times of year in Stowe, with visitors from all over the world coming to see the foliage. Be sure to plan ahead and respect fellow visitors, locals and the destination itself. Patience, kindness and care go a long way toward keeping Stowe a place everyone can enjoy.