Vermont Fall Foliage Has Arrived

The state's signature autumn season is underway as foliage begins appearing across the Vermont landscape.

Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Current Conditions

Bold vector editorial illustration of a single vibrant maple tree on a hill, representing the arrival of autumn foliage in Vermont. — Vermont's annual fall foliage season has begun, signaling the start of a critical tourism period that generates $600 million for the state's economy. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you feel your local area's seasonal tourist attractions are becoming less reliable due to climate change?

Fall foliage is now appearing across Vermont, marking the beginning of the state's popular autumn tourism season. The annual transition is supported by cool evenings and shifting daylight hours that trigger trees to produce vibrant colors.

Why it matters

The annual autumn foliage display is a vital economic engine for Vermont, generating approximately $600 million in yearly revenue. However, environmental factors like climate change and extreme rainfall are impacting soil moisture levels and delaying the timing of the colors.

Fall foliage generates approximately $600 million in annual revenue for the state, while extreme rainfall events continue to challenge soil moisture absorption. Peak color windows are currently projected for early- to mid-October across major resorts.

The players

Stratton Mountain Resort

This major destination in southern Vermont offers scenic lift rides to accommodate tourists during the fall season.

Magic Mountain Ski Area

Located in Londonderry, this facility provides specialized foliage-viewing rides to the Sunshine Corner.

Mount Snow

Situated in West Dover, this resort hosts large-scale community events including an annual Oktoberfest celebration.

The details

Trees in the region respond to the shortening photoperiod by degrading chlorophyll, a process signaled by the contrast between warm days and cool nights. While moisture-stressed trees may turn early, resorts including Stratton Mountain, Magic Mountain, and Mount Snow are prepared for the influx of visitors.

September 26, 2026 marks the first foliage rides at Magic Mountain.
October 1-10, 2026 is the expected peak foliage window at Mount Snow.
October 3 and 10, 2026 feature Oktoberfest events at Mount Snow.
October 11, 2026 includes Magic Mountain foliage rides.
October 18, 2026 concludes scenic lift operations at Stratton Mountain Resort.

Seasonal Patterns

The arrival of fall foliage is tracked against the $600 million annual revenue estimate, which serves as a fixed benchmark for the state's seasonal economic health. This year's progression follows a pattern of delayed onset due to climatic variability, diverging from historical averages.

Visitors should monitor specific resort schedules for lift ride availability and event dates before traveling. Residents and tourists alike are encouraged to check local mountain reports to navigate around peak traffic periods and changing weather conditions.

The takeaway

While the arrival of autumn colors remains a reliable sign of the season, environmental changes continue to influence the timing and health of the foliage. Travelers should plan visits during the early- to mid-October window to ensure the best viewing opportunities.