FOLIAGE REPORT

Current Foliage Report | Week of Sep 15, 2025

The Green Mountain State has experienced a dry spell recently, resulting in a mix of foliage conditions, ranging from bright scarlet reds on red maple in the Lower Connecticut River Valley region, to deep reds of ash foliage in the Greater Burlington and Upper Green Mountains regions to rapid color change of sugar maple followed by leaf drop in the Upper Connecticut River region. All leaves of hardwood species go through a period of “senescence” where leaves change color and then fall from the branches – both determined by water supply. In years where less water is present in trees, this process is accelerated and typically leads to an earlier fall foliage season, which is expected this year. In short, the foliage conditions are highly variable right now, but there is certainly color to find on the landscape.

Best bets: Maples and birch species are changing color in the Northeast Kingdom and can make for some nice foliage viewing right now with the mixture of conifer species in the area. Throughout the rest of the state, conditions vary, but targeting wetter areas or swamps can yield a nice splash of vibrant colors from red maples and neighboring species. Consider planning a drive that takes you from low to high elevations, such as a scenic gap road drive, and around different sides of hills and mountains. It’s also a good time to check in with locals and local businesses to learn where the best foliage can be found in a given area.

OUR FALL FAVORITES

Whitcomb’s Pumpkins and Corn Maze: Williston, VT- Open Wednesday 2pm-6pm and Sat/Sun 10am-5pm

Shelburne Orchard
U-Pick apples and farm stand favorites! The orchard is open Monday from 12-5pm and Tuesday-Sunday 9am-5pm. Shelburne Orchard frequently hosts music, tastings, food trucks, and more, so be sure to explore their calendar here.

Adam’s Apple Orchard & Farm Market
Pop over to Williston for U-Pick options, open daily from 10am-5pm. Adams often hosts outside food vendors and music! Check out their calendar here.

Hacket’s Orchard in South Hero
U-Pick options throughout the season, open daily 8am-6pm

Shelburne Farms
Walk the beautiful grounds and explore the Children’s Farmyard, open daily from 10am-4pm.

TAKE A DRIVE

Explore two self guided foliage tours beginning and ending in Burlington here. Or, follow along our custom itinerary for a perfect fall day.

FALL HARVEST PACKAGE

You’ll be welcomed to your room with fall treats before heading to a farm to pick your own pumpkins. Book now.