7 Ways to Enjoy October in Vermont
October 02, 2019

 Leaf-peeping season is in full swing in Vermont. If you’re looking for things to do during these beautiful autumn days, here are a few ideas.

Take a Hike

Vermont is 75 percent forested, which means there are thousands upon thousands of acres to explore. You can do that by hiking one of Vermont’s tallest peaks, such as Mount Mansfield or Killington, or something easier like Owl’s Head in Peacham or Sunset Ledge in Lincoln. Also, Vermont town forests are another way to get out into the woods on foot or by bike.

Attend a Fall Festival

Vermont is a festival-goer’s paradise in October. There’s everything from the Vermont Sheep & Wool Festival in Tunbridge and the Weston Antiques Show to the Newfane Heritage Festival and Stowe Foliage Arts Festival. You’ll also find Oktoberfest celebrations at places like Sugarbush, Mount Snow, and in the town of Jay.

Dine Out at a Chicken Pie Supper

October is prime time for chicken pie suppers. If you want to experience a slice of small-town life in Vermont, these community events offer a golden opportunity. You can find chicken pie suppers and harvest suppers happening around Vermont this month in Groton, Jericho, Montpelier, Stowe, and other communities.

Go for a Scenic Chairlift Ride

Ski areas, including Okemo, Sugarbush, and Stratton, offer scenic chairlift rides through Columbus Day Weekend to give you some of the best autumn views in Vermont.

Discover Burlington’s Most Haunted Places

Thea Lewis, owner of Queen City Ghostwalk, has been offering haunted tours in Burlington and sharing legendary ghost stories about Vermont’s largest city since 2002. Lewis leads a variety of tours that highlight entertaining tales of phantom ships, historic resting places, serial killers, and haunted hot spots.

Find a Dirt Road

It’s safe to say that that dirt roads and fall foliage are a match made in heaven. The Green Mountain State is home to more than 8,600 miles of dirt roads, which are perfect for fall foliage viewing. Some of my favorite dirt roads are forest roads in the Green Mountain National Forest and dirt roads in small Vermont towns, such as Landgrove, Peacham, Groton, and Danby.

Pick Lots of Apples

Vermont is where you’ll find more than two dozen apple orchards that grow Macintosh, Honey Crisp, Cortland, Empire, and other varieties.  If you’re looking for recommendations, try Scott Farm Orchard in Dummerston, Shelburne Orchards, Yates Family Orchard in Hinesburg, or Mad Tom Orchard in East Dorset.
 

What are your favorite things to do in October in Vermont?