Fall Foliage

From early hints of red to full‑blown color, Burlington comes alive every autumn. Maples ignite our parks, the lake goes glassy, and the city’s calendar fills with art, food, and good weirdness. Below are the best ways to do fall here—whether you’re cruising, hiking, pedaling, or snacking your way through it. Throughout the fall season Burlington showcases a variety of seasonal events, such as the  South End Art Hop  and the  Burlington Farmers’ Market,  serving as platforms for local artists and farmers from throughout the region. We invite you to  discover our local apple orchards  and witness the transformation of our  local parks and gardens  into relaxing hideouts.

When to go (and how to time it)

Color usually rolls from higher elevations down into the Champlain Valley through mid‑to‑late October. For the freshest read, use Vermont Tourism’s Foliage Forecasterand weekly Foliage Report—they update in season and make planning easy.

Five ideal ways to see the leaves

1) On the lake: Spirit of Ethan Allen A foliage cruise from the Burlington Waterfront is a VIP seat to shoreline color and Adirondack views. You can order a cheeseboard and stare at mountains. Fall sailings typically run into mid‑October and can be weather dependent.

2) On two wheels: Burlington Bike Path & The Island Line Trail
Take off on your bike on an eight mile journey along the lake on Burlington’s Bike Path, then head out the marble‑lined Colchester Causewayfor an only‑in‑Vermont ride. The seasonal Local Motion Bike Ferrybridges “the Cut” on a limited fall schedule—check dates before you go.

3) On foot: Classic hikes with great views
Close to town, Mount Philo State Park serves up sweeping views of the Champlain Valley. For a bigger day, Camel’s Humpand Mount Mansfieldreward with Green Mountain panoramas. (Pack layers; weather flips fast up high.)

4) By car: Scenic byways and back roads
Burlington is a perfect launch point for iconic drives. The Green Mountain Byway (routes 100/108/15) strings together classic villages and vistas—make time for overlooks and country stores along the way.

5) Culture in full color: Shelburne
Wander Shelburne Farms ’historic landscape on more than 10 miles of walking trails (note: no dogs on the trails), then add a stop at Shelburne Museum —open daily through late October—for art, gardens, and architectural gems.