If a fall trip has been on your bucket list with colorful mountains, covered bridges, scenic drives, apple cider donuts, cozy restaurants, and pumpkin patches & corn mazes, Stowe, Vermont in the fall is the perfect weekend trip.

Stowe is one of those destinations that that feels like you are living in your favorite fall Hallmark movie. The Green Mountains turn shades of red, orange, and gold, Route 108 winds through the foliage of Smugglers’ Notch, and the town comes alive with classic fall experiences.

But with so many things to see and do, planning a short trip can feel overwhelming.

That’s why I’ve put together this 2-day Stowe, Vermont fall itinerary to help you make the most of a weekend in one of Vermont’s best mountain town to visit during the fall to experience fall foliage and all the fall vibes.

This itinerary includes scenic drives, fall foliage, a gondola ride, Stowe Village, Cold Hollow Cider Mill, Smugglers’ Notch, a hike, and some of my favorite places to stop along the way.

If you only have two days in Stowe during the fall, here’s exactly how I would spend them.

Want to take away the stress of planning your trip? Let me do the planning for you!

Stowe, Vermont in the fall: My Experience

Stowe, Vermont in the fall had been at the top of my bucket list for years, and I finally took the trip in October of 2025. On my fall trip to Stowe, I went the first week of October, which was perfect timing for the peak foliage that year. Unfortunately, the colors were muted due to the drought Vermont had experienced that year, but that did not keep me from enjoying all the fall vibes on my trip! It actually ended up working out perfectly due to the fact that there were significantly less tourists in Stowe at the time.

A few of my favorite things that I did on my fall trip to Stowe included trying apple cider from Cold Hollow Cider Mill, riding the gondola to see the foliage, and going on fall hikes like Stowe Pinnacle and Nichol’s Ledge.

There are many great hotel options in Stowe, but I was traveling on a budget on my trip, so I decided to camp in Smuggler’s Notch. This was actually such a fun way to experience Stowe and I loved waking up under the foliage each morning and ending the day with a campfire. I just camped in my rental car, so it’s still an option if you are flying in from another state!

Stowe, Vermont in the Fall at a glance

Day	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Day 1	Cold Hollow Cider Mill + drive into Stowe	Gondola + Smugglers’ Notch	Dinner + Stowe Village
Day 2	Stowe Village + Recreation Path	Stowe Pinnacle + scenic stops	American Flatbread + sunset

Trip length: 2 days / 2 nights
Best time: Late September through October
Best for: Fall foliage, scenic drives, hiking, food, and a classic Vermont getaway
Transportation: A car is highly recommended
Where to stay: Stowe Village or along Mountain Road

When Is the Best Time to Visit Stowe in the Fall?

If you’re planning a trip specifically for fall foliage, late September through October is generally the best time to visit Stowe.

The exact timing changes each year based on weather, elevation, and other conditions, so there isn’t one guaranteed peak foliage weekend.

In general, higher elevations can begin changing earlier, while the lower elevations around town may peak later.

If seeing colorful leaves is your top priority, I’d plan for early to mid-October, but keep in mind that popular weekends can get very busy.

Fall is also a great time to visit because the weather is generally much more comfortable for hiking and exploring than during the warmer summer months.

A quick guide to fall in Stowe:

Late September: Early foliage and comfortable temperatures

Early October: Great combination of fall color and outdoor activities

Mid-October: Often a prime time for foliage

Late October: Cooler temperatures, fewer leaves in some areas, but plenty of fall charm

November: Late fall and much quieter, but many seasonal attractions begin changing their schedules

Because foliage timing varies, I recommend checking current local foliage reports before your trip.

Also Read: The Ultimate Guide to Stowe, Vermont in the fall

How to spend 2 Days in Stowe, Vermont in the Fall

This itinerary assumes you’ll have a car and two full days in Stowe.

I’ve arranged the stops to minimize unnecessary backtracking while giving you plenty of time to actually enjoy each destination.

One important tip: Don’t feel like you have to follow this itinerary down to the minute. Fall weather in Vermont can change quickly, so I’d prioritize the outdoor activities on the clearest day.

Day 1: Cider, Mountains & Smugglers’ Notch

Morning: Start With Cold Hollow Cider Mill

Begin your first morning with one of the most classic fall experiences in Vermont: Cold Hollow Cider Mill.

Located along Route 100 between Waterbury and Stowe, Cold Hollow is an especially easy stop if you’re driving into Stowe from the south. And yes, you absolutely need to get a cider donut.

The mill is known for fresh apple cider, cider donuts, Vermont-made products, and its seasonal atmosphere.

Grab a warm cider donut, browse the market, and stock up on Vermont treats to take home.

This is one of those stops that immediately makes you feel like you’re officially on a Vermont fall trip.

Don’t rush this stop. Grab a coffee or cider, walk around the property, and enjoy the beginning of your weekend.

I highly recommend arriving as close to opening as possible. They open at 8 am, and get busy very quickly. On my trip to Stowe, I arrived around 8:30, and it was already starting to get busy! Luckily, the line was still short, and I was able to grab some fresh apple cider donuts instead of ones that had been sitting out a while.

Travel tip:

If you’re visiting on a busy fall weekend, go earlier in the day. Popular foliage weekends can bring significant crowds to the Stowe and Waterbury area.

Stop at the Stowe Welcome Sign

As you make your way toward Stowe, keep an eye out for the iconic Stowe welcome sign.

It’s a quick photo stop, but if you’re documenting your trip, it’s worth pulling over safely for a picture.

From here, continue toward Stowe Mountain Resort.

Late Morning: Ride the Gondola at Stowe Mountain Resort

Next up: one of the best ways to experience Stowe, Vermont, in the fall, the Gondola SkyRide at Stowe Mountain Resort.

The gondola takes you up the slopes of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, providing panoramic views of the surrounding Green Mountains. When the foliage is at its peak, this is one of the most spectacular ways to see the colors from above.

The ride is especially worthwhile if you want the mountain views without committing to a strenuous hike.

Why I recommend the gondola:

• Incredible fall foliage views
• Easy way to experience Mount Mansfield
• Great for photographers
• Minimal hiking required
• Beautiful views of the Green Mountains

The gondola is seasonal, so check the current operating schedule before building your itinerary around it.

The Stowe area tourism organization specifically recommends the Gondola SkyRide as one of its signature fall experiences.

The gondola opens at 10 AM, and I recommend getting there right when it opens to avoid the crowds. On my trip to Stowe, I arrived at the gondola around 9:45 AM, and there was only a short line to buy tickets. Once I had my tickets, I was able to walk right onto the gondola without having to wait in any lines!

If the gondola isn’t operating:

Don’t worry.

You can replace it with the Auto Toll Road, hiking, or simply spend more time exploring Stowe Village and the surrounding scenic roads.

Lunch: Idletyme or von Trapp

After your morning at the mountain, it’s time for lunch.

Two options I particularly like for a Stowe fall itinerary are:

Idletyme Brewing Company

A great option for a casual lunch with beer, comfort food, and a relaxed atmosphere. I loved having lunch at Idletyme Brewing on my trip to Stowe! It was so nice sitting out and enjoying the fall air on the patio while trying some local beer and having great food! I highly recommend the pretzels!

von Trapp Brewing & Bierhall

For a more unique experience, head to von Trapp and enjoy Austrian-inspired food and Vermont-brewed beer with mountain views.

The von Trapp Family Lodge is particularly beautiful during fall foliage and is worth visiting even if you aren’t staying there.

The Stowe tourism organization also highlights the von Trapp property as a favorite fall stop.

Afternoon: Drive Through Smugglers’ Notch

After lunch, get back in the car for one of the highlights of your entire weekend: Smugglers’ Notch.

Route 108 through Smugglers’ Notch is one of the most scenic drives in the Stowe area. The road winds between towering cliffs and through a narrow mountain pass surrounded by the Green Mountains.

In the fall, the colorful trees make the drive even more spectacular.

Take your time here.

This isn’t a road where you want to rush from Point A to Point B.

Pull over at designated areas when it’s safe, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.

If you’re up for a short hike, there are also several opportunities to get out and explore the area on foot.

The official Stowe fall itinerary highlights Smugglers’ Notch as one of the area’s signature fall drives.

Important Smugglers’ Notch tip

The road is narrow and winding, and conditions can change seasonally. Check current road conditions before driving through the Notch, especially later in the fall.

Large vehicles and RVs can also have difficulty navigating portions of the road.

Optional Stop: Bingham Falls

If you have extra time and want to add a hike to Day 1, consider stopping at Bingham Falls.

The waterfall is located near Smugglers’ Notch and is a popular short hike.

Fall foliage makes the surrounding forest especially beautiful.

Just remember that autumn weather can make rocks and trails slippery, so wear appropriate shoes.

Late Afternoon: Explore Stowe Village

After your scenic drive, head back toward town and spend the late afternoon exploring Stowe Village.

This is where you get the quintessential small-town Vermont experience.

Walk along Main Street, browse the shops, stop for coffee, and take in the historic architecture.

Be sure to look for the iconic Stowe Community Church, one of the most recognizable sights in town.

The village is especially photogenic in the fall when the trees surrounding Main Street are full of color.

My advice: Stop at Black Cap Coffee for an iced maple latte!

Don’t plan too much here.

One of my favorite parts of Stowe is simply wandering around without an agenda.

Give yourself time to pop into shops, grab a drink, and enjoy the atmosphere.

Evening: Dinner in Stowe

After a full day of exploring, head to dinner.

A few options to consider:

American Flatbread

A Stowe classic for wood-fired pizza and a casual atmosphere. I absolutely loved having dinner at American Flatbread on my trip to Stowe! This was a great way the end a long day of exploring with the cozy atmosphere, good drinks, and some wood-fired pizza!

Idletyme Brewing Company

Great for beer, burgers, and a relaxed dinner.

Harrison’s Restaurant & Bar

A good option if you’re looking for something a little more upscale.

Make dinner reservations in advance if you’re visiting during peak foliage weekends. Fall is one of Stowe’s busiest travel seasons.

Day 2: Stowe Village, Scenic Views & Stowe Pinnacle

Day two is all about slowing down a little.

You’ll start with the cozy parts of Stowe before spending the afternoon on one of the area’s best hikes.

Morning: Coffee & Breakfast in Stowe

Start your morning with breakfast in town.

A few popular options include:

• Black Cap Coffee
• Butler’s Pantry
• Café on Main

Grab a coffee and a hearty breakfast because you’ll want some energy for the day ahead.

Walk the Stowe Recreation Path

After breakfast, spend some time on the Stowe Recreation Path.

The path is an easy way to enjoy the scenery without committing to a strenuous hike.

During fall foliage season, you’ll find colorful trees, mountain views, and peaceful stretches along the path.

You don’t need to walk the entire route. Pick a section that fits your schedule and enjoy a leisurely morning.

This is also a great option if you want a slower start after a busy first day.

Visit Emily’s Bridge

Next, take a short drive to Gold Brook Covered Bridge, better known as Emily’s Bridge.

This historic covered bridge is one of Stowe’s most recognizable bridges and is also known for its spooky local legend.

It’s a quick stop, but it’s worth adding to your itinerary if you’re interested in Vermont’s covered bridges.

And in the fall, the colorful foliage surrounding the bridge makes it especially photogenic.

Late Morning: Scenic Drive & Fall Foliage

Now it’s time to get back in the car.

One of the best things about visiting Stowe in the fall is that you don’t always need a specific destination.

Some of the best views are simply along the roads surrounding town.

Drive through the countryside, look for colorful mountain views, and stop at scenic pull-offs when you find one.

A few scenic areas to explore:

• Stowe Hollow
• Luce Hill Road
• Mountain Road
• Route 100
• Randolph Road
• Sterling Valley

If you’re looking for classic Vermont fall photos, keep an eye out for red barns, covered bridges, winding roads, and mountain views.

Lunch: American Flatbread

For lunch, head to American Flatbread, or another option that you did not choose for dinner the night before.

Their wood-fired pizzas are perfect after a morning of exploring, and the casual atmosphere makes it an easy stop between activities.

If you’ve already visited for dinner on Day 1, swap this for another local restaurant or café.

Afternoon: Hike Stowe Pinnacle

Now for the adventure portion of the weekend.

Stowe Pinnacle is one of the best hikes to add to a Stowe fall itinerary if you want panoramic mountain views with all the fall foliage.

The hike is more challenging than the easy walks around town, but the views at the top make the climb worthwhile.

From the summit, you’ll have sweeping views across the surrounding Green Mountains and toward Mount Mansfield.

And during peak foliage, the landscape below becomes a sea of autumn colors.

Stowe Pinnacle Hiking Tips

Bring:

• Plenty of water
• Comfortable hiking shoes
• Layers
• Snacks
• A small backpack
• Hiking poles if you prefer them

Fall weather can change quickly, especially at higher elevations, so don’t rely on the temperature in town when deciding what to wear.

Always check current trail conditions before heading out.

Not up for a challenging hike?

Swap Stowe Pinnacle for Sunset Rock.

Sunset Rock is a much shorter and easier option located near downtown Stowe and offers scenic views without requiring a full afternoon of hiking.

The official Stowe fall itinerary also recommends Sunset Rock as an easy scenic option near the village.

Late Afternoon: Apple Cider or Maple Treat

After your hike, reward yourself with something sweet.

If you didn’t visit Cold Hollow Cider Mill on Day 1, this is the perfect time to stop.

Grab another cider donut, fresh cider, or a Vermont maple treat.

Because you’re in Vermont. It’s basically required.

Evening: Your Final Stowe Sunset

For your last evening, slow things down.

Head back into town, grab a drink, and enjoy one final Vermont sunset.

If the weather cooperates, find a scenic overlook or simply walk around Stowe Village as the light begins to fade.

Fall evenings in Stowe can get chilly, but that’s part of the charm.

Put on your favorite sweater, grab a warm drink, and enjoy the last few hours of your weekend.

Where to Stay in Stowe for a Fall Weekend

For a two-day trip, I recommend staying somewhere that keeps you close to the main attractions.

Stay in Stowe Village

Best for: Walkability, restaurants, shopping, and charm.

This is a great choice if you want to be able to walk to restaurants and explore town without getting back in the car every evening.

Where to stay: Stowe Village Inn

Stay Along Mountain Road

Best for: Convenience and easy access to Stowe Mountain Resort.

Mountain Road puts you between downtown Stowe and the mountain, making it convenient for an itinerary like this.

Where to stay: Topnotch Resort

Stay at a Luxury Resort

For a more elevated fall getaway, consider a resort such as The Lodge at Spruce Peak.

This is especially convenient if the mountain and gondola are a major part of your itinerary.

Stay at von Trapp Family Lodge

For a classic Vermont experience with beautiful mountain scenery, Trapp Family Lodge is another memorable option.

How to Get to Stowe, Vermont

The easiest way to explore Stowe during a fall weekend is by car.

From Burlington

Stowe is approximately 40 minutes from Burlington, making Burlington International Airport a convenient option for travelers flying into Vermont.

From Boston

Stowe is roughly a three-hour drive from Boston, depending on traffic and conditions.

From New York City

Expect approximately five to six hours by car, depending on traffic.

Do You Need a Car in Stowe?

Yes, I highly recommend one.

While you can walk around Stowe Village, many of the best fall experiences require driving.

You’ll need a car to conveniently visit:

• Smugglers’ Notch
• Cold Hollow Cider Mill
• Stowe Mountain Resort
• Emily’s Bridge
• Stowe Pinnacle
• Scenic countryside roads

What to Pack for Stowe Vermont in the Fall

Fall weather in Vermont can be unpredictable, so layers are your best friend.

Make sure you check out my full Stowe, Vermont packing list!

For a two-day Stowe trip, I’d pack:

• Warm sweaters
• Long-sleeve shirts
• Jeans or hiking pants
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Hiking boots
• Lightweight rain jacket
• Warm jacket
• Hat or beanie
• Sunglasses
• Reusable water bottle
• Small daypack
• Camera

If you’re hiking, definitely bring proper footwear. Trails can become muddy or slippery after rain.

Tips for Visiting Stowe in the Fall

Book Your Hotel Early

Fall is one of the most popular times to visit Stowe, especially during peak foliage weekends.

If you have specific hotel preferences, don’t wait until the last minute.

Make Restaurant Reservations

The same goes for dinner.

Popular restaurants can fill up quickly during foliage season.

Start Your Days Early

This is especially important during peak foliage.

Starting early helps you avoid some of the crowds and gives you more time to enjoy scenic drives and popular attractions.

Don’t Try to Do Everything

Stowe has enough activities to fill several days.

If you’re only there for two days, choose your priorities and leave some room for wandering.

Check the Weather Before Planning Your Hiking Day

If you have flexibility, put your most scenic outdoor activities on the clearest day.

A cloudy or rainy day is still perfect for cider mills, breweries, shopping, and cozy restaurants.

Check Seasonal Hours

Some Stowe attractions and businesses have seasonal schedules, especially toward the end of October.

Always check current hours before you go.

What If You Have More Than 2 Days in Stowe?

If you have more time, there are plenty of ways to extend this itinerary.

Add a Day in Waterbury

Visit:

• Cold Hollow Cider Mill
• Ben & Jerry’s Factory
• Waterbury Reservoir
• Local breweries

Spend More Time Hiking

Add another Green Mountain hike or explore more trails around Mount Mansfield.

Visit More Covered Bridges

Vermont is famous for its covered bridges, and Stowe has several within driving distance.

Take a Day Trip

You can also use Stowe as a base for exploring other parts of Vermont.

Consider adding:

• Woodstock
• Burlington
• Waterbury
• Montpelier
• Lake Champlain

Stowe, Vermont in the Fall: 2-Day Itinerary Map

If you’re following this itinerary, the general route looks like:

Day 1:
Cold Hollow Cider Mill → Stowe Mountain Resort → von Trapp/Idletyme → Smugglers’ Notch → Stowe Village → Dinner

Day 2:
Stowe Village → Recreation Path → Emily’s Bridge → Scenic Drive → Lunch → Stowe Pinnacle → Cider/Maple Stop → Sunset

The exact order can be adjusted based on weather, foliage conditions, and seasonal operating hours.

Is 2 Days Enough for Stowe in the Fall?

Yes, two days are enough to experience many of the highlights of Stowe in the fall, especially if you plan your route ahead of time.

You won’t see everything, but you can experience the classic Stowe fall combination of mountain views, colorful foliage, scenic drives, hiking, covered bridges, cider, and the charming downtown area.

If you have more time, three or four days would allow you to slow down and add additional hikes and nearby destinations.

But if you only have a weekend?

Two days is absolutely doable.

Final Thoughts on Stowe Vermont in the Fall

There are plenty of places in New England where you can see beautiful fall foliage, but Stowe, Vermont in the fall has a little bit of everything.

You get the Green Mountains, fall foliage, scenic drives, cozy small-town streets, covered bridges, hiking trails, cider donuts, maple treats, and cozy restaurants all within a relatively small area.

And that’s exactly why I love Stowe for a fall weekend.

If you only have two days, focus on the experiences that make Stowe feel like Stowe: drive through Smugglers’ Notch, ride the gondola, explore the village, hike for mountain views, stop for cider and donuts, and leave yourself plenty of time to simply enjoy the scenery.

If you’re planning a fall trip to Vermont, I’d put Stowe high on your list.

And if you’d rather have someone else handle the planning, I can help! As a travel advisor, I can help you choose your Stowe hotel, plan your itinerary, and book your accommodations, rental car, tours, and other activities so you can spend less time researching and more time enjoying your trip.