The Best US State For Fall Colors In 2026 Isn't Michigan Or Maine

When it comes to where to go for foliage and charm in the United States this autumn, a few states stand out among the crowd. While in the past, both Maine and Michigan have taken the crown for the best U.S. state for fall colors, in this illustrious year of 2026, World Population Review has named Vermont the winner. Not only is Vermont one of the most beautiful places in the Northeast, it's also renowned for having gorgeous weather all year long (except maybe stick season, but even that is short-lived). Even with those lovely four seasons, it's hard to beat Vermont in autumn. There's really nothing like New England in the fall, and Vermont is New England fall at its best. It's chock-full of charming towns, windy back roads lined with endless colors, trails for every level to see that foliage from above, and did we mention maple syrup? Yep, fall in Vermont really is all that, and more.

Vermont, like the rest of New England, is particularly known for the intensity and variety of its autumnal foliage. Due to its northern latitude and specific climate, along with the large variety of local tree species, the hills burst with vibrant reds, oranges, yellows, and even purples. Vermont's leaves can start changing in late August, with their peak between mid-September and mid-October. 

Like all the best things, though, fall in Vermont comes and goes quickly, and there are some tips and tricks you need to know before planning your trip. Here's when to go, where to go, and how to see the best colors in Vermont, the best state for fall colors in 2026.

Timing is essential to consider when planning your dream leaf-peeping fall vacation, as you don't want to miss the reason for your visit by arriving too early or too late. Of course, it's notoriously difficult to predict the exact "peak week" in Vermont, but resources like Visit Vermont and the Old Farmer's Almanac are good places to start for the latest foliage predictions. Explore Fall also has an interactive Fall Foliage Map, updated daily, that shows where fall colors are currently, as well as predicted peaks for each year. This unpredictability is part of the charm, however. "There's always a little mystery because the color and timing of the leaves result from a delicate dance of many different factors—some environmental, some in the tree—before a great reveal," Professor William Keeton told the University of Vermont's Gund Institute for Environment. "Each year, there are subtle differences in the timing and brilliance of fall foliage that result from the weather and temperatures over the past two years."

Once you've done your best to nail down the timing, there are other factors to consider when planning your foliage trip to Vermont. Make sure to prepare for cooler, unpredictable weather — layers are key! — and decide if you want one base, or if you'd rather travel more. There are a variety ways to experience the colors, like on a classic road trip, a slice of heaven for any photographer (or anyone, really). You can also bike between charming towns, immersing yourself in the landscape, either by road bike or on a motorcycle, a truly thrilling way to see fall foliage. 

However you decide to get around Vermont in the fall, one thing is for sure: The state is full of some of the most charming places to stay in New England, and some of the most charming towns to visit in the autumn (or, ever). It's truly hard to go wrong! For more amenities, stay in Vermont's capital, Montpelier, or "America's Mini France." The small city's many European-inspired eateries, quaint bookshops, and local breweries make it a base worthy of exploration, while still providing easy access to the outstanding countryside. 

Stowe, Vermont (22 miles from Montpelier), is known around the world as "Fall's Color Capital," and it definitely deserves that title. Just 6 miles outside of Stowe is the iconic Smugglers' Notch, one of Vermont's top-notch state parks for vibrant foliage views. Escape (a few of) the crowds of Stowe and Smugglers' Notch by camping in the state park, visiting early in the morning, and avoiding weekends if possible. However, Stowe is discovered, to say the least. Go off the beaten path by visiting Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, in rural destinations like Hardwick (27 miles from Stowe) and Lake Willoughby. All the charm with fewer crowds!

For Montpelier, Stowe, and the Northeast Kingdom, Vermont's Burlington International Airport (BTV) provides the best access as the state's best-connected commercial center. Much of Vermont is also a short drive from major airports like Boston Logan (2.5 to 3 hours to Montpelier) and Montreal-Trudeau (2.5 hours to Montpelier). Nothing like a fall road trip, after all!