There’s something magical about fall in Vermont. The air gets crisper, the smell of wood smoke drifts through charming towns, and the mountains explode in a riot of reds, oranges, and golds. If you’ve ever wanted to witness nature at its most colorful, Stowe is a destination you simply can’t miss. From quaint country roads to scenic byways, Stowe offers drives that showcase New England at its absolute peak.
Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend escape or a visitor chasing that perfect Instagram shot, these 10 fall foliage drives in Stowe, Vermont are a must-see. From my own personal experience, nothing compares to cruising through winding roads lined with trees so vivid it feels like you’ve stepped into a painting. Let me take you on a journey through these unforgettable routes.
This is perhaps the most iconic drive around Stowe. The road twists and turns as it climbs toward the Smugglers’ Notch Pass, offering panoramic views of the Green Mountains. The foliage here is especially dramatic, with the high elevation creating pockets of fiery reds and bright yellows.
Along the way, you’ll pass charming covered bridges and small trails perfect for a short hike. Don’t rush—stop at the overlooks. The views of the mountains blanketed in color are exactly why you came to Vermont in the first place.
From my own personal experience, arriving at the summit just as the morning fog lifts is unforgettable. The combination of crisp air and colorful trees creates a memory that sticks with you long after you leave.
Route 100 is famous for a reason. This stretch, which passes right through Stowe, has earned the nickname “the Vermont’s scenic artery.” It’s lined with small farms, cider stands, and classic New England architecture.
Driving this route in fall, you’ll encounter gently rolling hills covered in a tapestry of colors. Take your time exploring the small towns along the way; each has unique shops and cozy cafes perfect for warming up with a cup of local coffee or cider.
Make sure to stop at the Ben & Jerry’s factory in Waterbury if you’re craving a treat—there’s nothing quite like ice cream while surrounded by autumn colors.
For a drive that combines scenery with a little adventure, head up Mountain Road to Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak. The climb is steep, the turns are sharp, and the views are jaw-dropping.
During peak foliage season, the mountain slopes light up in deep reds, bright yellows, and rich oranges. Hike one of the shorter trails for a closer look at the leaves or enjoy a picnic at a lookout point.
Based on my overall experience, timing your visit for early morning or late afternoon is key. The sunlight filtering through the colorful canopy makes the mountains look almost surreal.
This route is a hidden gem that many visitors overlook. Starting in Waterbury, a town full of charming shops and historic architecture, you’ll wind your way toward Stowe along Route 108.
The drive is peaceful, with fewer cars and plenty of spots to pull over and snap photos. Keep an eye out for small waterfalls along the way—fall is the perfect time to catch the streams running high with recent rain.
One of my favorite moments on this drive is passing through the Smugglers’ Notch village. The combination of dramatic cliffs and vibrant foliage makes it feel like a secret world.
If you love autumn colors, this route is a must-see. The drive from Stowe to Morrisville is lined with maple trees, which Vermont is famous for. Their leaves explode in shades of red, amber, and gold, making it feel like you’re driving through a tunnel of fire.
Stop at local maple syrup producers along the way. Sampling fresh syrup straight from the source adds a delicious touch to your fall adventure.
From my own personal experience, no drive in Stowe truly feels complete without tasting maple syrup while surrounded by the season’s beauty—it’s a simple pleasure that captures Vermont perfectly.
The Trapp Family Lodge isn’t just a place to stay—it’s an experience. The roads leading up to the lodge are lined with meticulously maintained landscapes and forests that shine in fall colors.
Even if you’re not staying overnight, a drive around the lodge’s loop is unforgettable. Stop at one of the overlooks and take in the panoramic views of the mountains and the surrounding forests.
The lodge itself offers Austrian-style architecture that contrasts beautifully with the Vermont foliage. It’s a scenic experience that feels both European and New England at the same time.
For a quieter, more contemplative drive, head south on Route 108 from Stowe. This road is less traveled, making it ideal for a relaxing journey. The scenery shifts from open farmland to dense forests, giving you a variety of landscapes in a single drive.
Keep an eye out for wildlife; deer and foxes are common along this route in fall. It’s one of those drives where you can truly slow down and immerse yourself in the season.
From my own personal experience, the serenity of Route 108 South during peak foliage is unmatched. You can roll down your windows, breathe in the crisp air, and feel completely at peace.
This drive extends beyond the notch and into the charming village of Jeffersonville. The road continues to offer incredible mountain views, but with the added bonus of quiet village charm.
Stop in Jeffersonville to explore local shops and bakeries. Fall festivals are common in October, giving you a chance to experience local culture alongside the colors of the season.
The combination of natural beauty and village charm makes this a drive you’ll truly love to explore.
This route takes you off the main tourist roads and into Vermont’s peaceful countryside. Rolling hills, farmhouses, and stone walls create a classic New England backdrop for the fall foliage.
The roads here are slower and less crowded, perfect for taking photos or enjoying a leisurely drive. Keep your camera ready—every turn offers a new perspective on the season’s colors.
Based on my overall experience, the Stowe to Hyde Park drive is a hidden treasure. It’s where you can see Vermont as it’s been for generations, with all the charm and color you imagined.
Finally, don’t miss Route 100 South. This drive loops you back toward the heart of Vermont, passing small towns, covered bridges, and countless viewpoints. It’s a classic route for anyone looking to experience the best of Stowe’s foliage.
Along the way, consider stopping for a hike or a picnic. The slower you go, the more beauty you’ll find—Vermont has a way of revealing surprises around every bend.
From my own personal experience, the Route 100 South loop is the perfect way to end a fall foliage trip. The colors, the quiet roads, and the quintessential New England scenery make it a memory you’ll carry long after the leaves have fallen.
Stowe, Vermont, offers more than just a drive—it offers an experience. Each road is a journey into a world where color, crisp air, and natural beauty combine. From winding mountain passes to quiet country lanes, these 10 drives are a must-see for anyone visiting during the fall.
Based on my overall experience, planning your trip around these routes ensures you’ll see the absolute best of Vermont foliage. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned fall traveler, the memories you make on these drives will last a lifetime.
So, fill up your gas tank, grab a warm beverage, and hit the road. The fall colors of Stowe are waiting, and they’re more spectacular than any photo can truly capture.