"A Journey Through Vermont’s Majestic Fall Foliage: The Ultimate Scenic Road Trip Loop"
If you're looking to experience some of the most stunning autumn landscapes in the country, Vermont is where you need to be. Imagine winding through colorful mountain roads, crossing historic covered bridges, hiking along breathtaking trails, and taking in epic views of sparkling lakes and waterfalls. This scenic road trip, starting at the Creamery Covered Bridge and ending at Causeway Park, offers all that and more—a feast for the eyes at every turn.
Here’s your guide to an unforgettable road trip loop through the heart of Vermont’s natural beauty. Trust me, by the time you finish reading, you’ll be itching to pack your bags and hit the road!
Getting There: The Road from Washington D.C.
Start your adventure with a 7-hour drive from Washington D.C. to southern Vermont. It may sound long, but with the right playlist and the promise of autumnal splendor ahead, the journey becomes part of the experience. Take I-95 North to I-91 North, and soon you’ll find yourself cruising through the Green Mountain State’s rolling hills.
As you cross into Vermont, get ready for nature’s fireworks display – fiery reds, deep oranges, and vibrant yellows lighting up the hillsides like a painter’s palette. Vermont’s fall foliage is legendary, and mid-to-late October is the prime time to witness this natural phenomenon in all its glory.
Starting Point: Creamery Covered Bridge – A Step Back in Time
Your loop begins at the charming Creamery Covered Bridge in Brattleboro, VT, one of the state’s most iconic covered bridges. Built in 1879, this picture-perfect wooden structure spans the Whetstone Brook and looks like it was pulled straight from a postcard. Covered bridges are a quintessential part of Vermont’s charm, and this one, with its rustic red siding and scenic backdrop of trees ablaze with autumn color, sets the tone for your journey.
Take a moment to explore the area and snap some photos. Walk along the creek, and listen to the gentle burbling of the water beneath the bridge—it’s the perfect way to start a day immersed in Vermont’s old-world charm.
Scenic Drive through the Green Mountains
As you leave Brattleboro and head north, prepare to be dazzled by the Green Mountain Byway, one of the most scenic drives in all of New England. The route winds through quaint villages, past farms with cows grazing in open fields, and along mountain ridges where the leaves put on a show like you’ve never seen before.
Every few miles, you’ll want to pull over just to take it all in—the sweeping views of the Green Mountains, the brilliant hues of maple and oak trees, and the cool, crisp air that signals fall’s arrival.
Epic Hikes and Waterfalls: Exploring Vermont’s Natural Beauty
No Vermont road trip would be complete without a few hiking stops to really immerse yourself in the landscape. Along your loop, you’ll find plenty of epic trails and hidden waterfalls that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook.
Hamilton Falls: Near Jamaica State Park, this 3-mile round trip hike rewards you with the stunning sight of Hamilton Falls, where water cascades down a 125-foot cliff surrounded by colorful forest. The hike is moderate, but the view is nothing short of magical, especially when the trees are at peak color.
Mount Mansfield: For a more challenging hike, consider tackling Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak. The Sunset Ridge Trail offers sweeping views of the Champlain Valley and Lake Champlain below, framed by fiery autumn foliage. On a clear day, you can even see into Canada from the summit!
Moss Glen Falls: Just outside Stowe, the short but rewarding hike to Moss Glen Falls leads to a gorgeous waterfall tucked deep in the woods. The trail is an easy 0.5-mile walk, but the towering 125-foot waterfall will leave you awestruck.
Stopping in Stowe: Vermont’s Charming Mountain Town
As you continue north, you’ll reach Stowe, one of Vermont’s most famous and beloved mountain towns. Stowe is the epitome of New England charm, with its white steepled church, cozy inns, and farm-to-table restaurants. In the fall, it transforms into a vibrant tapestry of colors, with the surrounding mountains providing a perfect backdrop.
Take a break here for lunch—Stowe’s local cafes and restaurants serve up hearty, seasonal fare like pumpkin soup, apple cider donuts, and Vermont cheddar cheese sandwiches. You’ll feel recharged and ready for more adventure after indulging in these fall flavors.
The Sweetest Stop: Ben & Jerry’s Factory
No Vermont road trip is complete without a stop at the world-famous Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury. As you pull into the parking lot, the air itself seems to carry a faint scent of sugar and happiness. You can join a factory tour, where you’ll learn how two best friends turned a tiny ice cream shop into a global sensation.
The tour takes you through the ice cream-making process from start to finish, and the best part? Free samples of their ever-inventive flavors! Think “Cherry Garcia,” “Phish Food,” or maybe even a new creation that hasn't hit the shelves yet. The playful murals on the walls, the iconic cow statues, and the quirky flavors make the whole experience a delightful pit stop for both kids and adults.
After the tour, head outside to enjoy your ice cream while lounging in the sunny picnic area. The scenic views of Vermont’s rolling hills surrounding the factory create the perfect backdrop for indulging in your sweet treat.
And don’t forget to visit the Flavor Graveyard, a quirky tribute to Ben & Jerry’s retired flavors. Here, gravestones mark the final resting places of once-loved but discontinued pints like “Wavy Gravy” and “Ethan Almond.”
The Causeway Park: End of the Road with Jaw-Dropping Views
As you wind down your road trip, your final destination is Causeway Park in Colchester, just outside of Burlington. The Island Line Rail Trail leads out to the causeway, a breathtaking 4-mile path that juts into Lake Champlain, offering panoramic views of the lake on both sides. It’s a surreal experience to walk or bike along this narrow strip of land, with water stretching out as far as the eye can see.
The causeway is particularly stunning at sunset when the sky turns shades of pink and purple, reflecting off the water and creating an almost dreamlike scene. It’s the perfect spot to reflect on your journey through Vermont’s fall wonderland before heading back home.
5 Must-Do Stops on Your Vermont Road Trip
1. Creamery Covered Bridge – Kick off your adventure with this picturesque bridge in Brattleboro, a true Vermont icon.
2. Hamilton Falls – Hike to this hidden waterfall for a peaceful, nature-filled experience.
3. Stowe – Explore this charming town, known for its epic fall colors and cozy mountain vibe.
4. Ben & Jerry’s Factory – Don’t miss this deliciously sweet stop for a factory tour and free samples!
5. Causeway Park – End your road trip with a walk or bike ride along this jaw-dropping path that stretches into Lake Champlain.
The Magic of Vermont’s Lakes and Foliage
One of the many things that make Vermont special during the fall is the contrast between its vibrant forests and its serene lakes. Whether you’re driving past Lake Willoughby, hiking near Lake Champlain, or admiring the reflection of golden leaves on the water’s surface, Vermont’s lakes add a touch of tranquility to the fiery colors of the season.
As you drive, take some time to stop by the shores of these lakes, particularly in the late afternoon when the setting sun casts a warm glow over the entire landscape. Lake Bomoseen is another hidden gem worth visiting along the route. Surrounded by hills and foliage, the mirror-like lake offers a peaceful setting to simply sit and admire the beauty of Vermont in the fall.
Final Thoughts: Why This Vermont Road Trip is Unforgettable
Driving through Vermont in the fall is like traveling through a living work of art. The road between the Creamery Covered Bridge and Causeway Park offers a perfect blend of adventure, history, and jaw-dropping natural beauty. From towering peaks to peaceful lakes, hidden waterfalls to fiery forests, this road trip gives you the full Vermont experience.
So if you’re looking for a trip that will leave you spellbound by nature’s beauty, Vermont’s scenic loop is calling. Pack your bags, load up on snacks, and get ready for the road trip of a lifetime.
