where is the best place to see the fall colors in new england

Where can I see fall foliage in New England?

Consider a foliage viewing adventure from above the treetops. You can do it on chair lift rides at many New England ski areas or on a thrilling flight in a hot air balloon. See Get a Bird’s-Eye View of Fall Foliage.

Where to go in New England in September and October?

Aside from locals, few people are on the island in September and October, making it a unique destination to enjoy fall in New England. Block Island, Rhode Island is a relaxing place to visit during the fall. The peak foliage is usually mid to late October.

Where are the best places to see fall leaves in Vermont?

In Bennington, climb to the top of the 306-foot-tall monument built in 1891 to commemorate the Battle of Bennington; it offers an unparalleled bird's eye view of the surroundings. Some of the northeast’s prettiest foliage views can be found in this tiny town in northern Vermont.

Where are the best places to visit in the fall?

Located in VT, the Mad River Valley is not only a popular place to visit in the winter with its incredible ski resorts. Come here in the fall, and enjoy jaw-dropping fall foliage without the crowds that you’d typically expect in a quaint Vermont region.

Where are the best fall colors in New England?

20 Stunning Places to See Fall Foliage in New England in 2022 Sunderland, Massachusetts. DenisTangneyJrGetty Images. ... Lyme, Connecticut. Cappi ThompsonGetty Images. ... Lincoln, New Hampshire. ... Colebrook, Connecticut. ... Millinocket, Maine. ... Bristol, Rhode Island. ... Providence, Rhode Island. ... Litchfield, Connecticut.More items...•

What is the best time for fall colors in New England?

Foliage conditions vary each year due to that year's weather and other factors. However, in general, you can expect to see fall foliage in New England from early/mid-September through the end of October. Peak foliage, when the leaves are at their best and brightest of the season, typically hits in early to mid October.

Is Vermont or New Hampshire better for fall colors?

Differences in peak color timing aside, the choice between NH and VT is largely one of preference. NH offers arguably the more impressive mountain scenery, as the White Mountains are more prominent and rugged than the Greens. The Kancamagus Highway and Bear Notch Rd. are always stunning in the fall.

Which New England state has the most foliage?

VermontNew England leaf peeping is at its finest in Vermont, where wilderness covers 75 percent of the land. Surrounded by more maple trees than anywhere else in the region, you'll find the brightest of yellows, oranges, and reds on nearly every highway and country road.

What is the best time to see fall colors in Maine?

Generally northern Maine is at or near peak conditions the last week of September into the first week of October. Central, and western mountains of Maine are at or near peak Indigenous Peoples' Day week/weekend. Coastal and southern Maine generally reach peak or near peak conditions mid-to-last October.

What is the best time to see fall colors in Vermont?

Typically, the fullest color can be found from late-September in the north, through mid-October in the south. Many experienced foliage viewers actually consider late October to be the most beautiful time in Vermont. Once the most brilliant colors have passed, the hills take on a subtler and richer range of hues.

Where is the best fall foliage in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts Fall Foliage | Best Time to Visit Some of our favorite regions in Massachusetts for enjoying fall color are the Upper Pioneer Valley during middle peak (end of September to mid-October) and Cape Ann, including the popular tourist town of Rockport, during late peak (mid-October to early November).

Where is the best fall foliage in USA?

Best fall foliage in the USACape Cod, MA. When to go: Mid to late October. ... Blue Ridge Mountains, NC. When to go: Late September through November. ... Aspen, CO. When to go: Mid to late September. ... Upper Peninsula, MI. ... White Mountains, NH. ... Shawangunk Mountains, NY. ... Ozark Mountains, MO. ... Taos, NM.More items...•

What is the best time to see fall colors in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire Fall Foliage | Best Time to Visit While every year is different, the best New Hampshire fall colors reliably move from north to south, starting in mid-to-late September and extending through mid-October.

How long does fall foliage last in New England?

about six weeksNew England's fall foliage season generally lasts about six weeks across the region, says Salge, “but usually only a week or two in any particular spot.” An extended run of color would be an improvement on 2020.

Where is the best foliage in Vermont?

The Best Places to View Vermont's Fall FoliageSmuggler's Notch Pass. ... The Kingdom Trails. ... Shelburne Farms & Shelburne Orchards. ... Mount Mansfield. ... Vergennes. ... Quechee State Park. ... Somerset Reservoir. ... Burlington & The Burlington Bike Path.More items...•

Are the leaves changing in Maine yet?

Maine Fall Foliage The first foliage report of the 2022 season will be September 14! For foliage travel information go to our When & Where to Visit section for travel ideas or call the Maine Office of Tourism at 1-888-624-6345.

What is the best time to see fall colors in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire Fall Foliage | Best Time to Visit While every year is different, the best New Hampshire fall colors reliably move from north to south, starting in mid-to-late September and extending through mid-October.

How long does peak fall foliage last?

California. Peak time: Mid- to late October is the best time to view fall color, starting from the higher elevations in the Shasta Cascade region down to the foothills and coast.

What is the best time of year to visit New England?

High Season Without doubt, the most popular times to travel in New England are the summer travel season from Memorial Day to Labor Day (late May, June, July and August) and the autumn foliage season (late September, October and early November) centered on Columbus Day, unless you're coming for New England skiing.

Why does New England have the best fall foliage?

The high altitudes of this northern region makes for an early season foliage peak, and North Conway or Jackson, NH, are colorful places to take it all in. Hike or drive up to the top of Mount Washington for seemingly endless views of mountains blanketed in color.

What to wear to a chilly night in the mountains?

Even if days are warm, be prepared for chilly nights with long pants, long sleeves, and a sweater . Wear sneakers and jeans so that you can jump out of the car and scramble over a stone wall or ramble through a hillside meadow. Take a camera, but remember to put it down and just look around. Take visors and sunscreen and binoculars.

When to make reservations for a hotel in Maine?

Decide on your dates of travel and make reservations for inns, hotels, and motels early -- preferably starting in July or August. Lots of travelers are competing for hotel rooms in the fall, especially in the northern states of Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.

Where to see fall foliage in Vermont?

The historic town of Woodstock, Vermont, is one of the best destinations to see fall foliage this year. It's considered the "quintessential New England village," so you can expect classic American charm, colorful and lush foliage, along with a quaint town bustling with shops and restaurants. Make sure you visit Billings Farm & Museum to taste some fresh, local Vermont cheese, and go for a hike in the 550 acres of woodlands that make up the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park to experience the foliage firsthand.

Where to see the most foliage in New Hampshire?

A road trip around Lake Winnipesaukee, the largest lake in New Hampshire, offers a scenic route where you can see some of the most colorful and impressive foliage in all of New England. Prepare to stop multiple times during the 97 mile drive: you'll want to have an autumnal picnic in one of the charming towns you'll find en route, like Meredith, and can even partake in some outdoor activities (think boating, fishing, and hiking) in the surrounding area as well.

What are the shire towns in Vermont?

The Shires of Vermont is the name of the southwest corner of Vermont, which includes the historic shire towns of Bennington and Manchester. Fifteen other charming towns and villages dot Historic Route 7A, also known as the Shires of Vermont Byway. In Bennington, climb to the top of the 306-foot-tall monument built in 1891 to commemorate the Battle of Bennington; it's the state's most popular historic site and offers an unparalleled bird's eye view of the surroundings. The nearby Bennington Museum includes the largest collection of Grandma Moses paintigs in the world.

How long is the Cape Cod Rail Trail?

From there, roll on to Yarmouth Port, through Dennis and finally Brewster. There, find Nickerson State Park, where the 22-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail offers no shortage of views to be seen on foot. Peak season hits late here, so it’s perfect if you find yourself looking for leaves come mid-October or even later.

What is the sweet spot between summer and winter?

The sweet spot between the delirium of summer and the looming chill of winter, fall is a time to be cherished–a time where coziness is of the utmost importance , and gratitude is cause for celebration. One of the most wonderful marks of autumn is the sight of leaves changing color. This season, take the time to appreciate ...

Where is the covered bridge capital of Vermont?

Some of the northeast’s prettiest foliage views can be found in this tiny town in northern Vermont. Montgomery also happens to be "Vermont's Covered Bridge Capital," so you can supplement your foliage pics with some bridge content for the Instagram feed. There are six of these covered bridges in the town, and each one is just waiting for you to take a leisurely stroll across it, warm beverage in hand. After touring the bridges, consider hiking through the 15 miles of trails preserved by the Hazen's Notch Association. Maybe not all 15 miles…

Where to drive in New England?

Start in Portland and head north on “Old Route 1” for one of New England’s most scenic coastal drives. Stop along the way in Brunswick, Bath, or Rockport (you can’t go wrong with any) for seaside mansions, lighthouses, and late-season lobster rolls; hit up Freeport for the L.L. Bean flagship. End in the quaint town of Camden, whose prime leaf-peeping vehicles include Merryspring, a 66-acre park and nature center, and autumn sails on the Schooner Surprise.

What is the best time to visit New England?

Fall is one of the best times to visit New England: the air is crisp, the apples are ripe, and the leaves are colorful. The only real downside might be that there’s just too much to experience! Never fear — we’ve compiled a list of 10 places to visit in New England in fall that will help you make the most of the season, ...

Where is the best corn maze in New England?

One of the best corn mazes in New England is the Great Vermont Corn Maze in North Danville, where visitors can spend hours exploring the mammoth agricultural construction (and for the more impatient among us, there are “cheater poles” along the way to permit a quicker exit).

What is the Shelburne Falls Trolley?

Originally built to carry trolleys , this New England icon now serves as a unique common for the village of Shelburne Falls. The hundreds of flowers and shrubs that line the bridge’s path are beautiful, and the views of the river and nearby mountains are especially stunning in the fall. Shops on both sides of the river showcase quality works by area craftspeople, and on weekends (through Oct.) a restored 1896 trolley makes short runs from the nearby Shelburne Falls Trolley Museum.

Does New England have modified hours?

Please note that many establishments throughout New England have modified their hours and/or operations in response to COVID-19. Always check for the latest information before making travel plans.

Is GPS reliable in Vermont?

Everyone who finds this place is enthusiastic about it, but beware: GPS is not always reliable in Vermont. Begin at the blinking light on Rt. 2 in Danville and head north. It’s wise to download the map from the website.

Where to go in the fall in New England?

Bash Bish Falls is a must-see place to visit in New England in the fall.

When is the best time to see fall foliage in New England?

The peak fall foliage in the White Mountains is usually in the first two weeks of October, though it can vary year-to-year. To see all of it, I recommend spending at least a few nights in towns such as Lincoln and Jackson. When you imagine fall in New England, you’re probably thinking of this area.

What to do in New England in fall?

Apple picking is one of the greatest pastimes and things to do in New England in the fall. New England has so many cool farms and orchards, but this one is near and dear to my heart. I visited Honey Pot Hill Orchards countless times growing up, and to this day, I keep coming back for more apples and cider donuts.

Where to see fall foliage in the Berkshires?

Go kayaking, canoeing, or whitewater rafting: The Housatonic River and Deerfield River are popular places for these water activities. The Housatonic River in the Berkshires is a popular place to spot fall foliage in New England.

What is apple picking in New England?

Apple picking is a fun family activity during fall in New England.

What railway was used to take the fall in New England?

A fall in New England is well spent aboard the Mount Washington Cog Railway.

What is the name of the hotel in New England that is famous for its fall foliage?

Omni Mount Washington Resort: A historic and luxurious hotel built in 1902 that’s among the most iconic buildings in New England. It’s not far from the Mount Washington Cog Railway, a great vantage point for seeing the fall foliage. A fall in New England is well spent aboard the Mount Washington Cog Railway.

What is the best way to explore New England in the fall?

Flexibility is key if you're looking for the most striking autumn colors, so the best way to explore is by car so you can quickly move around from place to place. Driving through any part of New England in the fall is sure to be spectacular, but a few well-worn routes are favorites for leaf chasers.

What to do in New England in fall?

Sip hot cider, pick apples or pumpkins, take a hayride, get lost in a corn maze, hike, bike, or attend a fall festival or other local event.

How to see state by state leaf color?

You can also see state-by-state reports through Leaf Peepers, which collects reports from on-the-ground volunteers for the most current leaf color updates. In addition to online resources, each state has its own dedicated foliage hotline so you can call and ask exactly where to go in case you're overwhelmed with options.

When is the peak of fall foliage in New England?

Peak fall foliage in New England works its way down from the north. This means the farther north you go, the earlier peak conditions will occur, with the northernmost regions reaching their height as early as mid-September. On an average year, the northern New England states—Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont—hit their peak autumn colors anywhere from the last week of September to the first couple weeks of October. Meanwhile, the southern states in the region—Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut—usually hit their peak around mid-October.

Why do leaves change color in fall?

Foliage colors are the result of natural forces that can vary widely from year to year. The complex and unpredictable factors that influence the rate at which leaves change colors in the fall are rain, the amount of sugar in the leaves, the number of daylight hours, and day and nighttime temperatures. Just because the leaf colors peaked on a specific date last year does not mean they'll do so on the same date this year.

When does fall foliage peak in Massachusetts?

Meanwhile, the southern states in the region—Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut—usually hit their peak around mid-October. If you're heading up to any of the mountains in the region, your altitude is just as important for fall foliage viewing as your latitude.

Where are the white mountains in New Hampshire?

If you prefer mountains over beaches, then the White Mountains of New Hampshire are just as famous for autumn colors as for their scenic covered bridges. The hills around Litchfield, Connecticut, are another popular choice for epic landscapes, local breweries and wineries, and their proximity to New York City.

Where to see the foliage in Vermont?

Stretching 200 miles from Massachusetts to Lake Memphremagog at the Canadian border, Vermont’s Route 100 has been called the best foliage drive in the state — and even the most scenic foliage drive in all of New England. It’s a long stretch, so you may not be able to tackle it all in one day if you want to make a lot of stops (and you should). South-to-north highlights include the art galleries and craft stores in Wilmington, the famous Vermont Country Store in Weston, the President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site in Plymouth Notch, samples of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream at the factory tour in Waterbury, and just about everything in the mountain resort town of Stowe. Yankee may have summed up autumn on Route 100 best: “Leaf-peeping, after all, is about more than just leaves. It’s about the foliage experience — farmstands and country stores, craft galleries and hot cider — and Route 100, with its many off-the-beaten-path side trips, offers all of that in one long winding package.” Distance: About 200 miles one way.

Where to go on a fall road trip in Vermont?

Arriving in Bristol, you’ll find a number of shops celebrating the work of local artists, such as Art on Main. Continue on to admire the sweeping views from the top of Appalachian Gap before hitting Waitsfield, where you’ll follow the Mad River, then the Winooski River, to reach Montpelier, the smallest state capital in the country. There, make time to grab lunch (if you arrive before 2 p.m., try Down Home Kitchen , a 2017 Yankee Editors’ Pick ), then head to Hubbard Park for a short hike and views of the city. Nearby Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks offers Vermont gifts, cheese, maple syrup, and maple creemees. Distance: About 60 miles one way.

Where to go on the Kancamagus Highway?

The Kancamagus Highway (Route 112) in New Hampshire has just about everything you could want in a scenic New England road trip. Crossing 30 winding miles of White Mountain forest from Conway to Lincoln, you’ll enjoy views of foliage-draped mountains, boulder-strewn rivers, and crystal-clear ponds. Start your day in Conway with breakfast at the Stairway Café, a 2016 Yankee Editors’ Pick, or take a provisions-focused swing through Zeb’s General Store. Favorite stops along the Swift River include the Albany Covered Bridge, Lower Falls, and Rocky Gorge and Falls Pond. Continuing on, the Kanc climbs nearly 2,500 feet before reaching a pair of truly breathtaking overlooks, one facing east (C.L. Graham Wangan Overlook) and one facing west (Pemigewasset Overlook). Finally, you descend into Lincoln for a bite at another Yankee favorite, Gypsy Café. Distance: About 50 miles one way.

What is the best time of year to visit New England?

It’s hard to imagine a more beautiful time of year in New England than the fall, when rich swaths of red, orange, and yellow make the landscape glow. It’s a season when apple orchards, farm stands, corn mazes, agricultural fairs, hot cider doughnuts, and quiet coastal towns all beckon with their sights, sounds, and aromas. For maximum fun, a foliage-inspired road trip is a great way to make the most of autumn New England. So grab your camera, make a playlist, and get ready. Here are the 10 best New England road trip routes for fall — some big and busy, and some just the right amount of quiet.

Where is the Vergennes to Montpelier road trip?

The Vergennes-to-Montpelier road trip includes a stop at the top of Appalachian Gap.

Where is the farm coast?

Farm Coast, Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Tucked between Cape Cod and Newport, the Farm Coast region of southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island is a place that Yankee has called “a slice of picture-perfect country life reserved for New Englanders in the know.”.

Where to stop in New England on Route 47?

Back on Route 47, continue north to Montague for a stop at the Montague Bookmill, hailed by Yankee as one of the best used bookstores in New England, to enjoy a leisurely browse and lunch at the mill’s café.

Why Focus On VT, NH, ME and Even NY?

In Fall, this entire region transforms into an adventure playground for leaf-peeping lovers and passionate photographers.

Where to leaf pee in the Adirondacks?

The charming town of Lake Placid is an incredibly popular centralized location for leaf peeping in the Adirondacks. As a result, hotels here are in high demand and not cheap from the end of September until mid October. We know from experience when our bank balance took a mighty hit!

What is Franconia notch?

Franconia Notch is one of New Hampshire’s premier tourist regions for hiking, picturesque mountains, skiing and of course fall foliage. A two lane highway mountain pass dissects the Kinsman and Franconia mountain ranges, with a number of fantastic recreational stops along the way.

Is Manchester a green mountain?

Manchester is the heart of the Green Mountains, so the entire area surrounding the town is staggeringly attractive.

Is it possible to plan a fall road trip?

It is impossible to plan the perfect ‘peak’ fall road trip itinerary. You would need to be in many places at the same time for that to be possible. We’re not quite there, yet!

Is Mount Washington cloudy?

As our images indicate, Mount Washington can be very wet and cloudy in Autumn. But if you get slightly more luck on your road trip and time it on a sunny day, you will enjoy some of the most beautiful colors and scenery in the entire region.