If you’re looking to plan a cozy fall trip to New England, Stowe, Vermont needs to be at the top of your itinerary. Stowe, Vermont is one of the best destinations to visit in Vermont in the fall, and maybe even the whole country!

Stowe is the perfect destination for a cozy fall trip. The town of Stowe feels like stepping into your favorite Hallmark Movie or an episode of Gilmore Girls. Stowe, Vermont has all the fall things you could want to make the perfect fall vacation including vibrant fall foliage, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, cozy cafes and coffee shops, apple cider, hiking, and more!

In this guide, I’ll give you all the information you need to know to help you plan the perfect trip to Stowe, Vermont in the fall. From where to stay, what to do, when to visit, and how to get there, this will be a comprehensive guide to planning the perfect Stowe fall trip.

If you want to take the stress out of planning, let me do the planning for you!

Fall in Stowe, Vermont: My Experience

My favorite season is fall, so naturally, Stowe, Vermont in the fall has been on my bucket list for a long time. I finally took my bucket list trip to Stowe, Vermont in the fall of 2025. I went on my trip the first week of October, which luckily happened to be peak timing for that year!

Although there was a drought in Vermont this year, causing the colors to be muted, it actually worked out in my favor by reducing the number of tourists. Typically, you can expect large amounts of crowds during fall in Stowe, Vermont, but I had the opposite experience! It was so nice not having wait times for restaurants and the gondola.

I also tried to make my trip as budget friendly as possible, so ending up spending a few nights car camping in my rental car. This was such a fun touch to the trip waking up beneath the colorful foliage every morning!

A Quick Look at Stowe, Vermont in the fall

Planning Detail	Quick Answer
Best time to visit	Late September–mid October
Peak foliage	Typically early–mid October
How long to stay	3–4 days
Getting around	Rental car recommended
Best hike	Stowe Pinnacle
Best fall stop	Cold Hollow Cider Mill
Best luxury hotel	Lodge at Spruce Peak
Best scenic drive	Smugglers’ Notch
Best budget option	Stay in Waterbury

Is Stowe, Vermont worth visiting in the fall?

Yes! Stowe, Vermont, is absolutely worth the visit in the fall. The best time to visit for peak fall colors is typically the first two weeks of October and sometimes the last week of September. I would recommend spending 2-3 days in Stowe to see the foliage and hit all the fall highlights!

Some of the best things to do in Stowe in the fall are driving Smuggler’s Notch, grabbing apple cider donuts from Cold Hollow Cider Mill, riding the gondola to see the foliage, and exploring downtown Stowe. I will cover this in more detail later on in this post along with the best places to stay in Stowe in the fall, but my top recommendations would be The Lodge at Spruce Peak and AWOL Stowe!

Why visit Stowe, Vermont in the fall?

• Famous fall foliage
  • Stowe is most famous for its iconic fall foliage! Stowe in the fall turns into a sea of red, orange, and yellow trees, which makes for some of the best fall foliage views in the country!
• Mountain scenery
  • Not only does Stowe have incredible fall foliage views, but it also has great mountain views! Stowe, Vermont is actually a ski resort, and the most popular ski town in New England.
• Charming downtown
  • One of the best fall activities in Stowe is exploring the downtown area. Downtown Stowe is the cutest New England town with cozy cafes, shops, restaurants, and the iconic white church. The whole downtown area feels like stepping into an episode of Gilmore Girls!
• Outdoor activities
  • Stowe also has easy access to some great activities in the fall! If you are someone that loves hiking and camping, this is also a great fall destination for you!
• Restaurants, breweries and local Vermont experiences
  • One of my favorite things about Stowe was the food. There are so many cozy restaurants, breweries to try local cider, and tons of maple lattes and apple cider donuts!
• Easy access to scenic drives
  • There is truly nothing quite like driving through the Vermont mountains and foliage during the fall! If you’re visiting Stowe, you’ll be able to take some of the best scenic drives in Vermont, including Smuggler’s Notch!

When is the best time to visit Stowe for fall foliage?

The best time to visit Stowe for fall foliage will vary each year depending on factors such as weather conditions. Typically, you will want to plan your trip sometime during the last week of September or the first two weeks of October.

If you’re working on planning a trip to Stowe in the fall, the below is a good timeline to follow:

• Late September: beginning of foliage
• Early October: colors building
• Mid-October: often peak
• Late October: lingering color, depending on the year

How many days do you need for fall in Stowe?

To get a good feel for everything Stowe has to offer in the fall, I would recommend 3-4 days. If you are stopping through Stowe on a New England fall road-trip you could probably hit all the highlights in 2 days, but if you want to base yourself in Stowe while exploring nearby towns such as Woodstock, Vermont, I would suggest no less than 3 days.

3-4 days in Stowe in the fall will give you plenty of time to experience all the highlights such as:

• Foliage drives
• Hiking
• Downtown Stowe
• Scenic attractions
• Restaurants/breweries
• Relaxing at your hotel

How to get to Stowe, Vermont

Stowe is actually very easy to get to, making it a great destination for a quick fall weekend trip or Vermont road trip. The easiest option for most travelers is to fly into Burlington International Airport (BTV) and rent a car. Burlington International Airport is about a 40-minute drive from Stowe under typical conditions.

Flying to Stowe

Burlington International Airport (BTV) is the closest major airport to Stowe and offers flights from several major cities. Once you arrive, you can rent a car at the airport or arrange a taxi or private transfer to Stowe.

For a fall trip, I recommend renting a car if you plan to explore beyond Stowe Village. Having your own car makes it much easier to visit places like Smugglers’ Notch, Cold Hollow Cider Mill, Stowe Pinnacle, Route 100, and other scenic stops at your own pace.

Driving to Stowe

Stowe also makes an easy road-trip destination from several cities in New England. Approximate drive times include:

• Boston: 2.5 hours
• New York City: 6.5 hours
• Montreal: 3 hours
• Philadelphia: 8 hours
• Washington, D.C.: 10 hours

These are approximate drive times and can vary depending on traffic, weather, and your exact starting point. Boston is also a good option to fly into if you cannot fly into Burlington and are okay making the drive.

If you’re driving from Burlington, you’ll generally take I-89 South to Exit 10 toward Stowe/Waterbury, then continue on Route 100 toward Stowe.

Can You Visit Stowe Without a Car?

Yes, but I recommend having a car for a fall foliage trip. Stowe has local transportation options, and parts of the town are walkable and bikeable. The Stowe Recreation Path also connects the village with restaurants, shops, hotels, and other attractions.

You can also reach the area by train, with Amtrak service to Waterbury, which is approximately 15 minutes from Stowe. From there, you’ll need to arrange transportation to your hotel.

My recommendation: If you’re visiting Stowe specifically to chase fall foliage and explore the surrounding area, rent a car. It gives you the flexibility to change your plans based on where the leaves are at their peak, which is especially helpful during peak foliage season.

Where to stay in Stowe, Vermont in the fall

There are several options for places to stay in Stowe in the fall. It is important to know, when planning your fall trip to Stowe, that hotel prices skyrocket and options fill up quickly. I would recommend locking in your hotel as soon as you have finalized the dates of your trip. On my trip to Stowe, I actually ended up camping in Smuggler’s Notch campground due to the hotel prices being so high.

Best for luxury: The Lodge at Spruce Peak

The Lodge at Spruce Peak will be the best option for a luxury stay on your fall trip to Stowe. This is a Hyatt property, so a great option to go with if you want to book with credit card points! My favorite travel card to use to book Hyatt properties is the Chase Sapphire.

Best for unique stays: AWOL Stowe & Outbound Stowe

AWOL Stowe and Outbound Stowe are two unique properties to stay at in Stowe. Both options allow you to book individual mini cabins, offering a cozy but luxurious experience for your fall trip to Stowe.

Best hotel in Waterbury: Best Western

If you are looking for a more affordable option on your fall trip to Stowe, consider staying in Waterbury. Waterbury is a town right outside of Stowe, only about a 15 minute drive and typically has lower nightly rates than Stowe. I actually stayed one night in Waterbury on my fall trip to Stowe, and it was super easy to drive into Stowe the next morning. It is also close to popular fall attractions such as the Ben & Jerry’s Factory and Cold Hollow Cider Mill.

Stowe vs. Waterbury: Where should you stay?

One of the biggest decisions when planning a fall trip to Stowe is whether to stay in Stowe or nearby Waterbury. Both are great options, but for different reasons.

Stay in Stowe if you want the full Vermont fall experience

If this is your first trip to Stowe and budget isn’t an issue, or you’re visiting specifically for the quintessential Vermont fall experience, I’d stay in Stowe.

Staying in Stowe puts you closer to downtown, Mountain Road, Stowe Mountain Resort, hiking trails, restaurants, shops, and many of the area’s most popular attractions.

It’s also the better choice if you want your hotel to feel like part of the vacation rather than simply a place to sleep.

Stay in Waterbury if you want convenience and potentially better value

Waterbury is only about 15 minutes from Stowe, making it a convenient alternative for travelers who want to explore the area on a budget without staying directly in Stowe.

One of the biggest advantages is location. Waterbury sits close to I-89, making it easy to explore Stowe as well as other parts of Vermont. It’s also home to its own restaurants, breweries, and attractions, so you’re not limited to Stowe during your trip.

Things to do in Stowe in the fall

If you’re visiting Stowe in the fall, there is no shortage of fall activities to enjoy! Below is a list of all my top activity recommendations for fall in Stowe, my experience with them, and the best times to do each.

Make sure you also read my guide for all the Best Things to do in Stowe, Vermont in the Fall!

1. Hike to Stowe Pinnacle

Stowe Pinnacle is one of the most popular hikes to do in Stowe! My personal favorite way to do this hike is at sunset. The view from the stop, with the sun setting over the mountains and fall foliage, is a view you do not want to miss! A sunset hike to Stowe Pinnacle is the perfect adventure to close out a day of exploring.

This hike took me around 3 hours to complete, so make sure you give yourself plenty of time to make it to the top for sunset. This hike was also a little difficult, so make sure you bring a good pair of hiking boots!

2. Cold Hollow Cider Mill

Cold Hollow Cider Mill is the ultimate fall activity for your fall trip to Stowe. Cold Hollow Cider Mill is actually in Waterbury, and just a 10 minute drive from Stowe. This is the cutest cozy gift shop where you can shop for things such as fall home decor, Christmas ornaments, candles, maple syrups and more!

Cold Hollow Cider Mill opens at 8 AM, and I recommend getting there as soon as it opens in the morning to beat the crowds and get some apple cider donuts while they are fresh! They also have hot and cold apple cider, hot chocolate, and coffee. I also recommend going to the back of the shop to the tasting tank to try some of the freshest apple cider! I arrived at Cold Hollow Cider Mill around 8:30-9 on my fall trip to Stowe, and it was already starting to get very crowded!

3. Visit the Ben & Jerry’s Factory

Also located in Waterbury is the Ben & Jerry’s factory. This is a great addition to your itinerary if you are an ice cream lover! You can take a tour of the factory, or just go buy some ice cream, visit the gift shop, and walk around the flavor graveyard to see the flavors that have been discontinued.

4. Go shopping & see the church in Downtown Stowe

If you’re planning to visit Stowe, you’ve definitely seen photos of the iconic white church. This church is located in Downtown Stowe on Main Street, which is also full of cozy shops, cafes, and restaurants. Taking some time to explore Downtown Stowe is an absolute must on your fall trip!

5. Hike to Nichols Ledge

Another hike that I definitely recommend for your fall itinerary in Stowe is Nichol’s Ledge. This hike is much easier than Stowe Pinnacle, although it is a 45-minute drive from Stowe. On my fall trip to Stowe, I did this hike when leaving Stowe and driving to New Hampshire.

This hike was one of my favorite things that I did on my fall trip to Stowe, and it is definitely worth the drive to see the view of the fall foliage surrounding the lake. This hike is also only about half a mile from the trailhead to the viewpoint, so is a great option if you don’t love to hike!

6. Smuggler’s Notch

Smuggler’s Notch is the most scenic drive you can take through the fall foliage in Stowe in the fall. There is also a boardwalk area you can walk on to view the foliage, or you can even do the full Smuggler’s Notch hike. This is a really long hike, so make sure you come fully prepared if you decide to do it!

7. Ride the scenic Gondola

The most popular way to view the foliage in Stowe in the fall is to ride the scenic gondola. The gondola opens at 10 AM, and I recommend getting there a few minutes before opening. On my fall trip to Stowe, I arrived at the gondola around 9:45, and there was only a short line for tickets and was able to get on the gondola immediately.

There was also no line to ride the gondola back down the mountain on my trip, but if there is a long line at the top, you can always hike back down if you do not want to wait in line!

Top Activities in Stowe, Vermont:

Where to eat in Stowe in the fall

One of my favorite things about visiting Stowe in the fall was the food. All of the restaurants I went to on my trip were so good, and there were still so many that I didn’t get to try! If you are visiting Stowe in the fall, here are some of my top recommendations for places to eat!

Best for apple cider donuts: Cold Hollow Cider Mill

Best for coffee: Black Cap Coffee

Pro-tip: Black Cap Coffee is located in Downtown Stowe. This is the perfect place to grab a maple latte and breakfast sandwich before some shopping!

Best Brewery: Idletyme Brewery

Pro-tip: Order the pretzels! This was one of my favorite meals in Stowe, specifically because the pretzels and cheese were such a good appetizer. We also loved the sandwiches and trying the local beer. Another great thing about this restaurant that I really enjoyed was getting to sit outside on their patio while enjoying the crisp fall air!

Best for dinner: American Flatbread

I absolutely loved everything about this restaurant on my trip to Stowe! Not only was the wood-fired pizza so good, but the restaurant has such a cozy yet elevated atmosphere. I highly recommend having dinner here one night on your trip!

3-Day Stowe fall Itinerary

If you’re planning 3 days in Stowe, Vermont this fall, here is a basic itinerary to follow for your trip! Feel free to customize the itinerary to fit travel time and how many days you will be in Stowe.

Day One:

Cold Hollow Cider Mill, Stowe Gondola, Smuggler’s Notch, Lunch at idletyme, Sunset hike to Stowe Pinnacle

Day Two:

Coffee at Black Cap, Explore Downtown Stowe, Ben & Jerry’s Factory, Hike to Nichols Ledge

Day Three:

Day trip to Woodstock, Vermont & dinner at American Flatbread after returning to Stowe

What to pack for Stowe, Vermont in the fall

Packing for fall in Stowe, Vermont, is pretty easy. The main thing you want to bring is layers! On my fall trip to Stowe, it was cold at night and chilly in the mornings, but the afternoons were actually at comfortable temperatures!

Below is a detailed list of what to pack for fall in Stowe, or you can view my packing list HERE!

What to pack for daytime in Stowe, Vermont

• Basic Long Sleeve Base Layers
• Basic Short Sleeve Base Layers
• Light Jackets
• Cardigans
• Light Sweaters
• Skirts
• Fall Boots
• Boot Socks

What to pack for hiking in Stowe, Vermont

• Hiking Boots
• Tall Socks
• Leggings
• Base layer
• Outer Layer
• Waterpack

What to pack for morning & night in Stowe, Vermont

• Fleece lined leggings
• Sweatshirts
• Thick Socks
• Warm Shoes
• Beanies
• Puffer Jacket
• Sweat Sets

What Is the Weather Like in Stowe in the Fall?

Fall weather in Stowe, Vermont, is one of the reasons the destination is so beautiful, but it can also be unpredictable. Temperatures change quickly throughout the season, especially between sunny afternoons and chilly mornings and evenings, so packing layers is very important for your trip!

In September, temperatures are generally mild, making it a great time for hiking and outdoor activities. By October, temperatures become cooler, and fall foliage is typically at its best. You can expect chilly mornings, comfortable afternoons, and chilly evenings, with temperatures dropping even more as the month progresses.

Rain is also possible throughout the fall, so don’t forget a lightweight rain jacket. If you’re planning to hike places like Stowe Pinnacle or explore Smugglers’ Notch, you’ll want comfortable shoes and layers that you can easily add or remove throughout the day.

What to Expect by Month

Month	Typical Feel	What to Pack
September	Mild and comfortable	Light layers, sneakers/hiking shoes, light jacket
October	Crisp and cool	Sweater, jacket, layers, hiking shoes, rain jacket
November	Cold and late-fall	Warm coat, sweater, boots, hat/gloves

Pro tip: Don’t let a chilly forecast keep you from exploring. Some of the best fall experiences in Stowe involve being outdoors, and there’s nothing better than hiking through the foliage on a crisp fall morning in Vermont.

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Tips for Visiting Stowe During Peak Fall Foliage

If you’re planning your trip around peak fall foliage in Stowe, a little extra planning can make your experience much easier. Fall is one of the busiest times of year to visit Vermont, and Stowe is particularly popular thanks to its mountain views, scenic drives, hiking trails, and Downtown Stowe.

Book Your Hotel Early

Fall foliage season is extremely popular, and the best hotels can book up months in advance. If you have specific dates in mind, especially for a weekend in October, I’d recommend booking as early as possible.

Be Flexible With Your Dates

Peak foliage doesn’t happen on the exact same dates every year. Weather conditions can cause the leaves to change earlier or later, so if you’re able to be flexible, you have a better chance of catching those vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows.

Start Your Day Early

Popular attractions and scenic roads can become crowded during peak foliage. Head out early in the morning for hiking, scenic drives, and photography. You’ll also get some of the best light for photos!

Make Restaurant Reservations

Fall is a busy season in Stowe, so don’t assume you’ll be able to walk into your favorite restaurant. Make reservations ahead of time whenever possible, particularly for dinner.

Don’t Limit Yourself to One Foliage Spot

One of the best things about visiting Stowe in the fall is that you don’t have to rely on a single viewpoint. Explore Smugglers’ Notch, Route 100, Mountain Road, downtown Stowe, hiking trails, and the surrounding areas to experience different scenery throughout your trip.

Check the Foliage Forecast

Before your trip, check Vermont’s current foliage reports and local conditions. If you’re traveling specifically to see peak color, this can help you decide which areas to explore each day.

Give Yourself Time to Explore

Some of the best fall moments aren’t necessarily on your itinerary. Pull over at a scenic viewpoint, stop at a farm stand, grab a coffee downtown, or take a drive down a road simply because it looks beautiful.

My biggest tip? Don’t over-schedule your Stowe fall trip. Leave some room in your itinerary to chase the foliage and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.

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Is Stowe, Vermont worth visiting in October?

Absolutely! October is one of the best times to visit Stowe, Vermont, especially if your goal is to experience classic New England fall foliage.

The combination of colorful mountains, crisp fall weather, cozy small-town vibes, and outdoor adventures makes Stowe an incredible October destination. It’s the perfect time to spend your days hiking and exploring and your evenings enjoying cozy restaurants, breweries, and your hotel.

What Is Stowe Like in October?

October is typically when you’ll find some of the most spectacular fall colors around Stowe. The exact timing varies from year to year, but early to mid-October is generally a popular time to plan a foliage trip, with color progressing through different elevations and surrounding areas.

The weather is cooler than September, so you’ll want to pack plenty of layers. This is also a great month for hiking because the temperatures are often much more comfortable than during the summer.

Best Things to Do in Stowe in October

Some of my favorite ways to experience Stowe during October include:

• Driving through Smugglers’ Notch for incredible mountain and fall foliage views
• Ride the gondola for panoramic views of the surrounding foliage
• Hike Stowe Pinnacle at sunset for one of the area’s best viewpoints
• Visit Cold Hollow Cider Mill for apple cider donuts
• Grab a drink or meal at Idletyme
• Explore downtown Stowe and browse the local shops
• Take a scenic drive along Route 100
• Stop at American Flatbread for a cozy dinner
• Leave time for spontaneous foliage stops during your trip

Is October Crowded in Stowe?

Yes. October is one of Stowe’s busiest months, particularly on weekends when foliage is near its peak.

That doesn’t mean you should avoid visiting; it just means you’ll want to plan ahead. Staying for a few weekdays instead of visiting only on a weekend can help you avoid some of the crowds, and getting an early start each morning is another easy way to enjoy popular spots with fewer people.

Is October in Stowe Worth It?

If seeing fall foliage in Vermont is on your bucket list, I’d absolutely put Stowe on your New England fall itinerary.

October gives you that quintessential New England fall experience: colorful mountains, scenic drives, cozy restaurants, outdoor adventures, and a cozy Vermont town to explore. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, girls’ trip, family vacation, or solo adventure, Stowe in October is a destination worth experiencing at least once.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fall in Stowe, Vermont

What is the best month to see fall foliage in Stowe, Vermont?

October is generally the best month to see fall foliage in Stowe, although the exact timing changes from year to year. Early to mid-October is typically a popular time for peak color, while higher elevations and surrounding areas can change at different times. If seeing peak foliage is your priority, build some flexibility into your trip.

Is Stowe, Vermont worth visiting in October?

Yes! October is one of the best times to visit Stowe, Vermont. The mountains are covered in fall color, the weather is ideal for hiking and scenic fall foliage drives, and the town has plenty of cozy restaurants, breweries, shops, and fall activities to enjoy.

How many days do you need in Stowe, Vermont?

I recommend spending at least 3 days in Stowe to experience the area’s highlights without feeling rushed. A long weekend gives you enough time for scenic drives, hiking, downtown Stowe, restaurants, and some of the area’s best fall attractions. If you want to explore more of Vermont, consider staying 4–5 days.

What are the best things to do in Stowe in the fall?

Some of the best things to do in Stowe in the fall include hiking Stowe Pinnacle, driving through Smugglers’ Notch, riding the gondola, visiting Cold Hollow Cider Mill, exploring downtown Stowe, enjoying local restaurants and breweries, and taking scenic drives through the surrounding mountains.

Where is the best fall foliage in Stowe?

Smugglers’ Notch, Route 100, Mountain Road, and the hiking trails around Stowe are some of the best places to experience fall foliage. Don’t be afraid to explore beyond the most popular viewpoints as some of the most beautiful scenery can be found simply by driving through the surrounding areas.

Is Stowe expensive in the fall?

Stowe can be more expensive during peak fall foliage season because it’s one of Vermont’s most popular destinations. Hotels and vacation rentals may have higher rates, especially on weekends in October. Booking well in advance and considering a weekday stay can help you find better availability and potentially lower rates.

What should I pack for Stowe in October?

Pack layers! October temperatures can vary throughout the day, so bring sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, a warm jacket, comfortable walking or hiking shoes, and a rain jacket. If you plan to hike, you’ll also want appropriate hiking shoes and a daypack.

Can you visit Stowe without hiking?

Absolutely! While Stowe is an amazing hiking destination, you don’t have to hit the trails to enjoy fall. Take a scenic drive through Smugglers’ Notch, ride the gondola, explore downtown, visit local cider mills and breweries, shop, or simply enjoy the views from your hotel.

What is the best way to get around Stowe?

Having a car is the easiest way to explore Stowe and the surrounding area, especially if you want to visit scenic drives, hiking trails, farms, and attractions outside of downtown. A car gives you the flexibility to chase the foliage and stop at scenic viewpoints along the way.

Is Stowe a good fall destination for a weekend trip?

Yes! Stowe is perfect for a fall weekend getaway. With three days, you can combine outdoor adventures, scenic drives, great food, shopping, and plenty of time to enjoy everything fall in Vermont has to offer!

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Final Thoughts: Planning Your Fall Trip to Stowe, Vermont

If fall in Vermont has been on your bucket list, Stowe deserves a spot at the top of your itinerary.

From fall foliage views and scenic drives through Smugglers’ Notch to hiking trails, cozy restaurants, local cider, and the cutest shops, Stowe has everything you could want from a quintessential New England fall trip.

And while you can absolutely plan a Stowe trip yourself, you don’t have to.

As a travel advisor with Bucket List Riley, I can help take away the stress of research and planning. I’ll help you choose the right dates, find a hotel that fits your travel style and budget, recommend activities and restaurants, arrange rental cars, tours, and airport transfers, and put everything together into a customized itinerary.

Ready to plan your fall trip to Stowe? Submit a travel inquiry, and let’s start planning your Vermont fall trip!