It's amazing how quickly the leaves change once the process begins. No matter where you visit in Vermont, you will see some color by now. Some of the trees look dipped in color with tops of red or orange and bottoms still green. Take a stroll through the woods and walk on a carpet of yellow, orange and red.  This week, we had a return of summer weather - warm days and cool nights.  Perfect for outdoor adventures during the day and sound sleeping at night.  Come to Vermont for the foliage, but stay for the adventure -- hiking, biking, kayaking or even a dip in a local swimming hole. And don't forget the Fall Festivals throughout the state.  There's something for everyone at this time of year.

If you can't wait to see nature's magnificent display, head to our Autumn Photo Gallery for a glimpse into years past. And, remember – it’s never too early to plan a fall vacation. Fall is also Festival season in Vermont so there's lots to do while soaking in the beauty around you.

       NORTHERN VERMONT

Laura Gibson
Sterling Ridge Resort
Jeffersonville

The juxtaposition of summer and fall seasons is apparent in Stowe, Vermont. Cooler temperatures in the beginning of September spurred an early start to foliage, though with summerlike weather over the past few weeks, people are enjoying outdoor activities while experiencing pockets of bold color. Summer greens in the lower elevations pair nicely with patches of warm yellows, oranges and reds of early fall. Colors in the higher elevations are changing at a faster rate as the autumnal equinox approaches.

Sharon Harper
Stowe Area Association
Stowe

       CENTRAL VERMONT

Most of the trees are still green with the warmth of a lingering summer, but we're starting to see red and orange gradients coming in at the edges. Cool breezes flow through the harbor, making the trees rustle and whisper, a soft soundtrack for the impending arrival of fall. The view of the Adirondacks across the lake is slowly becoming mottled with warm browns & yellows, contrasting beautifully with the blue skies.

Katie Ratcliffe-Lee
Basin Harbor
Vergennes

Erin Anderson
Okemo Mountain Resort
Ludlow

The Ludlow and Proctorsville area is just turning golden yellow, but over the hill, down Route 100, Weston is boasting a much earlier advance of colors. The vibrant yellows are noticeably absent, but the burnt sienna and rusty golds are sweeping the hills while the temperatures are abnormally summery.  Perfect for touring the area!

Julie Wood
Golden Stage Inn
Proctorsville

       SOUTHERN VERMONT

So…as with everyone across the state, we are holding our breath in hopes of getting some chilly weather to help “snap” the trees into color. In the meantime, our weddings are still moving along swimmingly, and things in Grafton are hopping! There is a “Fairy House Festival” this weekend at the Grafton Nature Museum and it is always a joy. This popular event runs from 10 am to 4 pm Saturday and Sunday ( the 24rd & 24th) There is a Fairy House tour, face painting and crafts…..well worth the visit!

Steven Griffiths
Grafton Inn
Grafton

While Sept. 22 marks the first official day of fall, the foliage is already making a statement here at Stratton where the colors are getting brighter by the day. Stratton, the tallest mountain in southern Vermont, is the ideal vantage point for viewing fall foliage at its peak. Hike to the summit or a enjoy relaxing gondola ride to the top to take advantage of spectacular views that stretch clear across four states. Stratton's annual Columbus Day Weekend celebration will fill the resort with endless family fun from October 7-9, 2017 with the popular chili cook-off, craft brewfest, hay rides, pumpkin painting and live music by the Lustre Kings, Stratton Mountain Boys and Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass.

Tom Vayianos
Stratton Mountain Resort
Stratton

Linda Warner
Vermont.com

Marlboro College still showing early foliage changes. Won't be long before the view from the "Hill" is much more colorful!

Sarah Warner
Marlboro College
Marlboro, VT

While you're enjoying the fall foliage, plan to take in one of Vermont's many Fall Festivals. You'll find events that celebrate everything from the the Manchester Arts and Crafts Festival (9/29) to Stowe's Oktoberfest (9/29) to the ITVFest in Manchester (10/11-15).  For comprehensive listing, refer to our Fall Festivals page.