Written By: Brittany Blazey
Autumn in the “Green Mountain State” is perhaps one of Vermont’s most beautiful seasons. That’s because the green mountains begin to burst into beautiful shades of orange, red, and yellow. This awe-inspiring event attracts out-of-state “leaf-peppers” to locals looking for a front row seat to “nature’s fireworks show.” We are breaking out our best Vermont flannels and diving head first into some fall fun! We created this guide to showcase our favorite things to do in Chittenden County, Vermont during the fall season.
1. Shelburne Farms.
Shelburne Farms is one of the most beautiful, relaxing, and expansive places to take an afternoon stroll. With 10-miles of lakefront and farm land for you to explore by donation, you’ll take in views of Mt. Manfield (Vermont’s tallest peak), the Green Mountains of Vermont, Lake Champlain, and the Adirondack Mountains.
After you’ve finished your walk, we recommend heading over to the cheese making viewing area to pick up some of their award-winning decadent Smoked Cheddar! How does Smoked Cheddar Mac & Cheese for dinner sound to you? We love adding North Country Smokehouse bacon from Healthy Living Market & Cafe to make this an extra special treat!
2. Pumpkin Creemees.
Do you want a unique, sweet, and extra “gram-worthy” treat? The Mill Market & Deli is a must-stop spot to taste their extraordinary Pumpkin Creemee which is only available during the fall. You can shop around the market and pick up some of their out-of-this-world Apple Cider and cider doughnuts that have been delighting Vermonters for years! It comes from the best Vermont grown apples that are minimally processed and treated with UV light for safety.
3. Leaf Peeping.
A tradition that has been carried throughout decades and generations! There are so many fantastic spots throughout Vermont to view “nature’s fireworks show.” Mount Philo located in Charlotte, VT is a great free hike for beginners to take in the beauty of the season. Not committed to hiking up a mountain? Niquette Bay State Park in Colchester, Vermont is a bit more tame and offers you beautiful views of Lake Champlain. It’s well beyond worth the $4 admission fee!
4. The Island Line Rail Trail.
This is your last opportunity before our collective winter hibernation to take advantage of biking the causeway out of Burlington, Vermont to South Hero, VT. You will feel invigorated after completing this 13.4 mile ride alongside Lake Champlain with a few of your best friends!
5. Take A Hot Air Balloon Ride.
Above Reality Hot Air Balloon Rides located in Essex, Vermont has been providing unforgettable tours of Vermont since 2002. You will enjoy floating along the hilltops as you take in the beautiful vistas all around you. Their licensed FAA pilots will make it a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone!
6. Corn Mazes.
You can’t have autumn in Vermont without a good corn maze! Sam Mazza’s in Colchester, Vermont not only has delicious food from pies to produce but they also offer a 3-mile corn maze! As you make your way through, stop at various “checkpoints” to have your card punched to be eligible for a grand prize drawing!
7. Apple Picking.
Adams Apple Orchard & Farm Market located in Williston, Vermont is one of our favorites. Their pick-your-own apple orchard is open from September 1st to mid-October. With 6+ varieties of apples to choose from you’ll find the perfect one for you from snacking to baking the best apple pie. They also offer Maple Glazed Doughnuts with bacon bits and wonderful berry pies that even the pickiest of eaters will love!
8. Pumpkin Carving Displays.
The Cilley Hill Pumpkin Festival is an annual event on October 30th and October 31st in Jericho, Vermont on Cilley Hill Road. You will have the opportunity to watch hundreds of pumpkins glow and illuminate the night. It’s a beautiful tradition that keeps Vermonters coming back each and every year!
9. Cooking Classes at The Essex Resort & Spa.
Looking to level up your fall cooking skills right before the holiday season? The Essex Resort & Spa professional chefs share their top secrets to making mouthwatering meals every week! You will receive hands-on instruction tailored to cooks of every level, learn new cooking techniques, and hone your existing skills. Their professionals will teach you how to cook everything from eggs benedict to even sushi. View the class schedule here!
We love all of the fun activities that fall brings to Chittenden County, Vermont. There’s a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities to choose from before the cold of winter sets in and the skis come out! We hope that you found our article to be informative and helpful! Contact Sarah Harrington at [email protected] to begin the process of selling or buying a home within the Greater Burlington area today!