Vermont in the autumn time is breathtaking. Like, breathtaking. The leaves draw in a lot of tourists from around the New England area this time of year and this year is no exception. Last year, the leaves started to turn a bit early. This year? A little later. The “peak” leaf time frame is projected to be soon- within the next 10-12 days. What this means is that the colors will be the most vibrant and dense between now and the end of next week. Today, I actually took a very out of the way road home JUST to see the leaves. And let me tell you- they. did. not. disappoint.
As a lover of all things fall, Vermont is the perfect place for me. Even my backyard is gorgeous this time of year… despite the dying plants that are about to get cleaned up for fall clean-up (a very big thing in Vermont). While travelling is still a little tough for some, if you happen to find yourself headed this way any time soon (or even next year), here are some fun things to check out around the state!
Smugglers Notch Road-
This is a historical path in VT. It’s also very dangerous and closes for the long winter months due to the inclement weather and the danger it poses to the road. It’s a sharp and windey path and if you come, do me a favor. SLOW DOWN. We all know you’re a tourist if we see you taking the turns on the road like a total fool (Yup- I am talking you, Massachusetts.). But, if you can- it’s worth the drive. The leaves are seriously gorgeous and make you feel like you are in a movie.
Apple Picking-
Apple picking is hot here. There are so many local orchards. Some have already picked apples so that you can buy a bag while others let you hit the trees to grab your own. The orchards are usually incredibly family friendly and offer snacks, creamies (a big thing in New England), and even have activities for kids!
Visit a Brewery-
So apparently there are brewery tours? I can’t speak to that but I am sure you can google it. What I can tell you is that this is a fantastic time to visit a brewery. The weather isn’t too hot and it’s not balls cold yet. I love a brewery with good beer AND good food. Some of my favorites include Zero Gravity, Fiddlehead, and Four Quarters.
Visit Cold Hollow Cider Mill-
Located in Waterbury, VT, Cold Hollow Cider Mill is THE place to get your apple cider donuts. You can also watch them press fresh apple cider. The smell of the place alone will make your mouth water. And for all of your touristy needs, they have a ton of stuff for you to buy to take a little bit of VT home with you or to someone else! AND across the driveway is their restaurant called, Apple Core. This belongs to Cold Hollow and is their luncheonette where you can have a delicious sandwich and sample local hard ciders. They also have a few brews on tap. Find something you like? See if it is their retail space behind the register and take it with you on your journey!
Maple Syrup-
It’s everywhere. Seriously. If you want local syrup, keep your eye out for roadside stands. If you are desperate, most grocery stores sell local stuff too. It’s EVERYWHERE! OR if you are me, you are lucky that your neighbor taps some of the trees in his backyard during the winter and makes his own… and he even shares! I call that winning.
Fall Festivals-
There a ton. Most fall festivals have great food, local artists, and general fun for the family. This weekend alone there are about 5 happening throughout Vermont. Google it and find one near you!
If you come to Vermont, come to relax and enjoy the scenery. People are friendly and welcome your company. There is so much to see, taste, and do here at this time of year. It’s hard not to enjoy it- even if you are a bit sad that the summer weather is gone for the next 7 months… There’s nothing like fall in Vermont!
The Salty Exchange 