Stunning Walks of Southern Vermont in Autumn

There is nothing like autumn in Vermont to rekindle that sense of wonder and appreciation for mother nature. Vermont boasts the best foliage in New England and it is incredibly stunning if you are lucky enough to catch peak foliage, although even a few weeks before peak is still jaw dropping. Peak foliage date calculations are never certain so it can be incredibly difficult to make travel plans. The spectacular display of colored leaves usually begins in mid September and can last through October. The timing of foliage season depends on many factors including elevation, weather, drought and the species of trees in the area. Since southern Vermont is the southern gateway to all that Vermont has to offer, we want to share our favorite stunning walks of southern Vermont to enjoy in Autumn.

Because the bold colors are so unbelievably attractive during foliage season, a staggering amount of visitors flock to New England. During the magnificence of autumn in Vermont, finding a place to stay becomes very challenging so we recommend planning ahead. The locals call autumn “leaf peeping season” because of how many people come to enjoy the splendor of the season. The autumn visitors to New England are affectionately known as “leaf peepers”, one reason may be that sightseers are constantly peeping through their viewfinders at the marvelous changing colors.

Leaf peeping is incredible, but can be wildly dangerous in a vehicle. Fall foliage season is the only time of year when some visitors entirely disregard the rules of the road in order to capture that perfect photo. The phenomenon of crimson, scarlet, carnelian, amber and auburn tinted forest is so astonishing it will stop you in your tracks, literally. To enjoy the foliage without the hazards that the stunning glory of autumn bring, meander along an easy walking path where you can behold the beauty of the season in solitude.

Be Courteous:

Please keep in mind that walking and hiking in the pristine glades, mountains and trails of Vermont or any other state is only so beautiful because each and every visitor is a steward of the places we visit. The fundamentals of leave no trace and outdoor ethics are incredibly important for the environment and visitors enjoyment of the great outdoors. Please leave the trail just as you found it and take only photos home with you.

Be Seen:

Being outdoors in the fall can also coincide with hunting season in Vermont as well as many other states. Please be aware of the state’s hunting season dates and wear blaze orange, also known as safety orange when you are out enjoying the leaves. Blaze orange vests and hats are an affordable piece of safety equipment. Be safe and seen.

Be Found:

Even the easiest trail can be confusing to navigate sometimes. Some trails are well marked with trail blazes and some are not. It is a best practice to always know where you are. Print or download a map of the area you will be hiking or walking in. Keep in mind that Vermont’s mountainous terrain does not always have excellent cell phone service. There are quite a few good hiking trail apps available who can use your phone’s GPS even when you don’t have cell service. Just make sure to download the app or map ahead of time. The Catamount Trail Association offers some really wonderful tips on Staying Found.

Be Prepared:

Wear weather appropriate clothing and footwear when you adventure outdoors. Sturdy waterproof boots are a must in addition to proper clothing for the season. Pack a backpack with snacks and water even if you think you might not be out for long. Take proper precautions for deterring ticks as well as checking your pets and gear after a hike. As I always say, “Luck favors the prepared.”

The West River Trail (Lower Section) – Brattleboro, Vermont

Our first Stunning Walk of Southern Vermont is the beautiful West River Trail. The West River Trail’s lower section is approximately three and a half miles and begins in Brattleboro. This well-maintained multi-use trail winds its way north along a former rail bed on the banks of the West River into Dummerston Vermont. In Brattleboro the trailhead parking is located behind the Marina Restaurant off of Putney Rd. Make sure to check out the trailhead information kiosk at the parking area. It provides visitors with the history of the West River Railroad who carved the original trail in 1880, the new vision for the trail, helpful tips and what wildlife to look out for along the way.

The walking path begins as a wide dirt and gravel trail the width of a one lane road. As the trail continues along it opens out under the bridge carrying interstate 91 over the West River. This beautiful three-span bridge is quite a work of art! The main span of the bridge is anchored by gorgeous curved cathedral arches built with multi color stone making it truly, a postcard worthy bridge. The bridge features a uniquely shaped oval viewing platform centered directly at the base of the pilers. The bridge was nicknamed “ A Bridge to Nature” and it lives up to its name by complimenting the surrounding natural landscape in its details. The fall foliage is stunning along the banks of the river making the viewing platform the perfect place for capturing the glorious colors.

The trail segment after the bridge is wedged between the mountain and the river so becomes narrower as you continue along. The stone hillside above you is dappled with small trees, moss and ferns and the opposite side of the trail is a steep drop down to the river. In this section, using your imagination you get to peek through a window in time, back to when the rail bed was cut into the mountainside. The stone cliffside is rugged and uneven so you can only imagine what it would have been like laying this track along the river.

As the trail winds along the river it slopes down to water level. If you take one of the side trails toward the river the trail opens up to a wide clearing along the riverbank. This spot is perfect for a picnic or to just enjoy the sweet sounds of the rushing river. Looking north, up the river gives visitors a marvelous view of the mountains framing this scenic valley. The views across and up the river are open and breathtaking in the fall.

The trail continues northward along the river towards Dummerston. It ends at another parking lot where the West River Trail continues along the roadway. The beauty of the West River is immensely satisfying to behold during autumn when the hillsides are awash in color and the rocky shallows of the river accentuate the texture of the riverbed beneath.

Catamount Trail Section 1 – Whitingham, Vermont to Mass Border

The Catamount Trail is a cross country ski trail that stretches more than three hundred miles from Massachusetts to Quebec. It was first skied in 1984 and finally completed in 2002. Today, the Catamount Trail is the longest backcountry ski trail in North America. This impressive cross country ski trail has gentle slopes and grades throughout most of Southern Vermont making it a perfect walking path during the summer and fall. There are many sections to the trail and each section offers its own pristine views.

The out and back southernmost section of the Catamount trail begins at the Massachusetts border but is only accessible from Harrimans Station Powerhouse in Whitingham Vermont. The powerhouse is located on the east bank of Sherman’s Reservoir. Harrimans Station Powerhouse is an ornately detailed brick building, complete with gargoyles in the eves, stone horses in relief that detail the roofline and front entryway. The beautiful building houses the generators and turbines used in making hydro-electric power from the waters of Harriman Reservoir located to the north. The parking area is at the end of Harrimans Station Drive to the right of the gate. There is a parking sign and it is imperative that cars do not block the gates or buildings.

The trail begins at the gate and you will see the Catamount Trail blue diamond blazes that will guide you along the trail. The beginning of this trail is on a dirt road. Keep right and stay along the water following the blue blazes. As the trail continues it becomes more wooded and scenic. The sounds of nature are all around you underneath the dappled canopy of maple and oak trees. The trail meanders along the banks of Sherman’s Reservoir where you might catch a glimpse of the resident bald eagle or see evidence of the busy local beaver.

As you stroll your way southward you will pass through the abandoned village of Sherman and the ruins of the old carbide factory. The ruins have an enchanting and inviting feel. If you look closely the beautiful stone arches of the furnaces are still visible as well as the stone foundations. The train that traveled through this area was the lifeblood of the town. If you let your imagination run wild, there is more to see than meets the eye. Over one hundred and ten years ago the train would transport roughly one hundred passengers per day. Imagining sitting in the rickety wooden train car being hauled behind a steam engine will transport you back in time.

The trail continues along the banks of the reservoir all the way down to the Massachusetts border. There is a classic granite marker indicating the state line. Beyond the state line is private property and not open to the public. Please do not proceed past the state line marker. Enjoy a different perspective of the beautiful scenery along Sherman Reservoir on your way back. There are many wondrous stopping points to marvel at the autumn colors.

Catamount Trail Section 3 – Northward from Lind Lane in Wilmington, Vermont

This out and back section of the Catamount Trail northward from Lind Lane is one of our most beloved sections. Once you venture away from the road the remoteness and serenity of this trail is outstanding. Waterproof boots are a must since this trail can be muddy in all seasons. Parking for the trail is located about four miles west of Wilmington at the end of Lind Lane. The parking cul-de-sac is not large so it is courteous to park well allowing more visitors to access the trail. The trail begins in the woods northwest of the parking area. Please respect the landowner who lets visitors pass through their property to access the Catamount Trail.

The Catamount Trail’s blue diamond blazes guide you along the trail as it winds its way along the babbling Deerfield River. The trail section is over seven miles long and goes all the way up to Somerset Reservoir. For a nice easy walk the first three miles are a delight. The trail passes over a few small streams with varying terrain. The tree species are numerous in this area so the varying colors are immensely remarkable. The winsome river is wide and exceedingly alluring as it charts its course southward into Lake Whitingham. The water flows over the shallow rocks into deeper sections creating spiral eddies that sparkle in the sunlight.

As you walk northward the trail arrives at a junction near the mouth of Vose Brook. Take a left, over the metal footbridge to stay along the Deerfield River. After the footbridge the tree species transform and an evergreen scent hangs in the air. As the trail emerges out of the dense pine forest with a thick covering of needles underfoot the serenity of all that autumn has to offer lies before you.

Hoot Toot & Whistle Trail – Wilmington, Vermont

The Hoot, Toot and Whistle Trail is a fantastic and sublime walk along the Deerfield River that opens out onto the glorious Lake Whitingham, also known as Harrimans Reservoir. This trail is part of the abandoned rail bed used by the Hoosac Tunnel & Wilmington Railroads. Bring your camera because the colors along the trail are magnificent and the views across the reservoir genuinely enhance the majesty of the Green Mountain range.

Beginning at the west edge of the quaint town of Wilmington, the Hoot, Toot & Whistle trail is approximately 2 miles one way and consists of varied terrain and multiple stream crossings. The beginning of the trail carries you over a scenic pedestrian bridge crossing the Deerfield River and then splits around the main offices of the Moover. You will recognize the Moover building by the apropos black and white spotted busses, resembling holstein cows parked outside.

If you take a right, the lower branch of the trail between the river and the Moover building displays informative placards along the trail about the history of the area. The lower trail crosses a wooden footbridge, then goes up a moderately steep hill meeting the main trail at the top. If you take a left, the upper branch of the trail continues up a grassy hill, then veers right along the road and left into the woods. This upper branch of the trail is more level and can be less muddy. If you follow the upper trail you will meet up with the lower branch and continue towards the reservoir.

The Hoot Toot & Whistle Trail is a marvelous trail with its wooden foot bridges, rocky terrain, varying vegetation and pristine views. Along the trail you will enjoy some moderately challenging spots but it’s mostly easy and relaxing, making it perfect for a short hike surrounded by the beauty of nature. As the trail comes to an end you emerge from the trees along the lakeside. There are numerous places to sit and relax after the walk so enjoy a snack or picnic at the Fairview Ave boat launch before heading back into Wilmington. The boat launch on Fairview Avenue is only open to vehicular traffic from Memorial Day to Columbus Day so if you plan to drive and hike this trail in reverse please plan accordingly. There is no parking anywhere at the gate when the boat launch is closed for the winter.

Catamount Trail Section 2 – Northward from Harrimans Dam in Whitingham, Vermont

This section of the Catamount Trail from Harrimans Dam northward along the west bank of Harrimans Reservoir is another of our favorites in southern Vermont. This section is along the same abandoned rail bed used by the Hoosac Tunnel & Wilmington Railroads, therefore the trail is wide and relatively flat making it another sensational walking path. The trail offers stunning views of the hills along the banks of the lake and down into the valley below the dam.

Ample parking for this section of the Catamount Trail is at the end of the aptly named Dam Road in Whitingham. Make a point to stop before the end of Dam Rd, at the top of the unique hydro-electric spillway. Standing along the chain-link fence offers a glimpse into the Glory Hole. This magnificent feat of engineering shaped like an oversized morning glory diverts some of the water from Harrimans Reservoir to Harrimans Power Station farther down the river. The remaining water exits at the bottom of the dam and continues the course of the Deerfield River. The Glory Hole was designed to function like the drain in a bathtub. When the water level in Harrimans Reservoir gets too high a torrent of water pours over the rim relieving the hydrostatic pressure on the dam in a spectacular fashion! Usually this striking show is only visible in the spring due to snowmelt runoff from the surrounding mountains.

The dam and the access to the trail is owned by Great River Hydro and they graciously permit visitors to enjoy the trails. The top of the dam is not open to the public so please use the lower road at the end of the parking lot to cross the dam. As you walk across the dam the view to the south is breathtaking on a clear fall afternoon. The leaves are dappled in sunshine and the sun sparkles on the river below. Once you cross over the dam turn right and follow the trail up to the peak of the dam and along the shoreline of the lake.

This multi-use path is wide and relatively flat with a few rocky areas and low sections that collect water. As the trail meanders along the banks of the lake the cracks and fissures in the hillside above become visible as well as a vast array of maple, ash and oak trees. There is a section of the trail that leads through an extraordinary notch in the rock blasted by the men laying the rail tracks in the early 1920’s. Along this beautiful shoreline path the changing colors highlighted with flecks of golden sunshine give this trail an enchanting ambiance in the afternoon light.

This section of the Catamount Trail meanders about seven and half miles north to Medburyville in Wilmington so you can walk as little or as long as you like. The parking in Medburyville is spacious at the end of Woods Road with a beautiful picnic area known as Mt. Mills West Picnic Area. Along the trail in both directions the colors are dazzling and you may be able to enjoy them in solitude mid-week. Please note, recently the lower part of this trail has become available for ATV use.

Green River Meadows – Guilford Vermont

No list of Stunning Walks of Southern Vermont would be complete without including Green River Meadows. Green River Meadows is an easy, 0.4 mile, multi-use path that is short but sweet and well worth a walk in the fall. This quaint and scenic area was once a large junk yard until the Vermont River Conservancy along with other contributors stepped in to clean things up and create this secluded oasis for visitors to enjoy. Green River Meadows is just as it seems, a beautiful meadow bordered by the Green River. Along the path there are multiple access points to the river to enjoy fishing, swimming and photography. The hillsides surrounding the meadow are bursting with autumn color every year and the babbling river offers wide swimming holes for a refreshing dip.

Parking on River Road in Guilford, for Green River Meadows is minimal. There is a roadside pull off with space for about three cars as well as space for another two cars along the roadway. The grassy level path rambles alongside the river banks with four passageways to the water. Each access point to the river offers sightseers unique and picturesque views of the landscape as the river flows and the autumn colors reflect in the rock pools. Some pools are shallow with little rocky beaches, while others are large enough to swim in.

The beauty and vibrancy of the fall colors along this short walking path is quintessential autumn in Vermont and shouldn’t be missed. The tranquility of the flowing river paired with the picturesque reflections on the water creates a feeling of being one with nature. Don’t forget your camera for a scenic stroll at Green River Meadows.

The Crosstown Trail – West Dover, Vermont

The Crosstown Trails in West Dover is a marvelous one mile walking path with ski area views, beaver lodges, informative placards and a network of trails to enjoy. Nestled between Mount Snow Ski Resort and The Hermitage Ski area is one end of this wide, well maintained trail. The section of the trail that displays the best fall foliage is between Handle Road and Country Club Road near the Mount Snow Golf Course. Both ends have limited parking but the Handle Road parking lot has more parking spaces.

Beginning at the Handle Road parking lot, the Crosstown Trail begins with a stunning view of Haystack Ski Area across a wide beaver pond. The colors around the pond are exceptional but the yellows, oranges and reds of Haystack Mountain intersected with the green ski trails creates a brilliant photo opportunity. From the beaver pond the trail continues downhill and into the woods. It is incredibly peaceful as you stroll past a babbling brook with fallen branches across the stream and the sound of the wind in the trees.

Additionally, there are multiple more challenging single track footpaths that intersect the main Crosstown Trail so if you are feeling adventurous you can deviate from the main trail. Make sure to download the map or take a photo of the map before setting out and take note of the elevation contours so that you choose the right trail for your ability level. The main trail is a nicely graded, wide two track road that has wonderful informational placards along the way highlighting the local wildlife species. The peaceful path winds farther and farther through the forest giving visitors a glimpse of the auburn colors with flecks of gold from the overhead sun.

The Crosstown Trail intersects with the Valley Trail right before another large beaver pond. This pond is a haven for migrating birds as well as local species. We have observed kingfishers hunting nearby beautiful blue herons as Canadian geese look on from the shoreline. The far end of this pond sits high enough that a pristine view of Mount Snow Ski Resort is visible above the tree line. As the trail continues on it makes its way uphill to Country Club Road, the forest canopy recedes back from the trail exposing the sky above so bring your hat with you.

The end of this section of the Crosstown trail ends at the sharp bend of Country Club Road. There is space for about four cars along the roadside. On the walk back the views in reverse are spectacular. Mount Snow is perched above the tree line in all its splendor. The ski trails resemble wrinkles on the face of the mountain in shades of muted green against the brilliant amber and scarlet of the deciduous trees.

During the fall foliage season in Vermont it isn’t hard to find a beautiful place to enjoy the splendor of the season. Southern Vermont is usually known as the part of the state that holds its color the longest. Depending on the season and influential meteorological changes the glorious colors begin in the higher elevations in the north and work their way southwards and down into the valleys. If you are interested in visiting New England in September and October make sure to plan your trip ahead of time and pack for all weather conditions. As we say in New England, “If you don’t like the weather, just wait a minute.” We have some of the most changeable weather conditions here in the northeast so a good raincoat, good boots, a rainfly for your camera bag and dressing in layers will enhance your experience while adventuring through Southern Vermont in autumn. We hope you enjoyed these Stunning Walks of Southern Vermont. Happy Travels.

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