Planning Your New England Fall Foliage Trip
Timing peak foliage is always imprecise, but there is a general rhythm to how the colors roll out. To play it smart, you can follow the "color wave" from north to south.
- Late September: The first hints of color appear in Northern Vermont and New Hampshire.
- First Week of October: The White Mountains of New Hampshire hit their stride.
- Second Week of October: Central Vermont (around Stowe and Burlington) and New Hampshire's lakes region begin to glow.
- Mid to Late October: Western Massachusetts, including the beautiful Berkshires, takes the spotlight.
- Late October to Early November: Southern New England, including coastal Connecticut towns, sees the last of the stunning colors.
Remember that one cold snap or rainy week can shift everything, so it’s wise to check sites like Yankee Magazine's foliage map for real-time updates.
Foliage Road Trip Ideas
While you can find breathtaking scenery across all six states, some drives offer a concentrated dose of classic New England fall.
- Litchfield Hills, Connecticut: Cruise up Route 202 or Route 7 past stone walls and Americana scenes. Stretch your legs at Kent Falls State Park or grab lunch in the charming town of Sherman.
- Connecticut River Valley: Paddle, hike, or coast along scenic roads with views that are said to inspire poetry.
- The White Mountains, New Hampshire: The Kancamagus Highway is 35 miles of pure autumn joy, perfect for a day trip.
- Route 100, Vermont: This legendary stretch winds through valleys, covered bridges, and towns that feel frozen in time.
- The Berkshires, Massachusetts: For a mix of leaves, arts, and fine dining, the Berkshires offer a more polished take on fall with rolling hills and glorious forests.
- Acadia National Park, Maine: The combination of coastal views and vibrant autumn forests in mid-October is truly a sight to behold.
Under-the-Radar Spots for Leaf-Peeping
For those who prefer jaw-dropping color without the crowds, consider these hidden gems:
- Litchfield County, Connecticut: This region offers charm, rolling hills, and color that rivals anywhere up north, but without the crowds. It's perfect for a quick trip that still feels like a weekend escape.
- Pawtuckaway State Park, NH: Just an hour north of Boston, this park offers boulder fields, quiet trails, and fantastic views from the fire tower.
- Heublein Tower, Simsbury, CT: This castle-like tower offers sweeping views of the Farmington River Valley. The hike up keeps the crowds thin, but it's not so tough that you'll regret the cider donuts you had for breakfast.
Fall Activities Beyond the Windshield
Don't just drive; immerse yourself in the season. The best memories are made when you get out and participate in the fun.
- Ride a Fall Foliage Train: Hop aboard a classic railway like the Conway Scenic Railway in the White Mountains to enjoy the views without worrying about traffic or parking.
- Go Apple Picking: A classic for a reason, apple picking in New England is a fall tradition. Many orchards offer hayrides, cider tastings, and views of the surrounding hills.
- Bike the Trails: For the more adventurous, mountain biking through leaf-covered trails adds a thrill to the color chase.
- Visit a Fire Tower: Climb an old fire tower in a state park for summit-level views without the epic climb.
Find Your Perfect Home Base
A great fall trip starts with a great home base, and a charming New England inn is the perfect choice. You'll find properties with cozy fireplaces, local tips on where to go, and views that make it worth getting out of bed. The Stanton House Inn in Greenwich, CT, is a perfect southern launchpad, located just 50 minutes from NYC.
Ready for your best fall yet? Reserve your stay at a charming New England inn today to savor the season while it lasts.
