Fall in New England is as beautiful as you have heard! Words can’t adequately describe the colors that pain the Autumn landscape. Leaf peepers and locals alike spend weekends enjoying the Fall splendor while drinking some cider, picking apples, hiking and more.

Here are the best ways to enjoy Fall in New England!

 

Biking Across Lake Champlain

by Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler

 

While there are some incredible bike trails in Vermont, none rival the 14-mile Island Line Rail Trail that runs from Burlington across Lake Champlain. A bike trip here in the fall lets you experience the famous Vermont foliage while taking in views of the highest peaks from the trail.

 

The trip starts in the charming city of Burlington, with its vibrant arts scene, first class dining, and renown craft breweries. You can rent bikes at Local Motion on the bike trail downtown. The cycling path traces the waterfront with magnificent views across Lake Champlain to the Adirondack Mountains. Further on you glide past beaches and wildlife areas worthy of a stop to explore.

 

The jewel of the trip is the Colchester Causeway, a narrow reclaimed train line crossing Lake Champlain with water lapping on the huge boulders on either side of the bike path. The spectacular trail extends 3 miles into the middle of the lake. When you come to the Cut, a 200 foot gap in the causeway, hop on the bike ferry to the other side to continue the ride to the Champlain islands of South Hero and Grand Isle. The bike ferry runs on weekends in the fall.

 

There are various trailheads with parking to accommodate shorter rides. Start at Causeway Park for a pleasurable ride across the causeway to explore the quaint beauty of South Hero. In the fall, apple orchards and Snow’s winery are perfect biking destinations.

 

 

 Kancamagus Highway

Kate McCulley of New Hampshire Way

 

New England is home to some of the best fall foliage in the world — and there’s nowhere better to enjoy fall colors than on the Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire’s most scenic drive.

The Kanc, as locals call it, is a 56-mile scenic byway through the White Mountain National Forest, connecting the towns of Lincoln and Conway. You won’t find restaurants, hotels, or even gas stations along this highway — just twisty, curvy roads among outstanding mountain scenery.

While you can drive the whole route in about an hour, we recommend taking at least half a day to stop and explore. At Rocky Gorge, you can climb on flat rocks and hike into the woods. At Lower Falls, you can take a dip in the rushing Swift River.

Love waterfalls? You can do an easy 15-minute hike through the woods to Sabbaday Falls, or go for a longer, more energetic hike to Champney Falls or Franconia Falls. Mount Chocorua is right there if you want even more of a challenge, and views from the top are spectacular.

For the best fall foliage, aim for the first week of October. This is when the White Mountains are at their most vibrant. All you need are a car, good hiking shoes, and a packed lunch!

Finish your day in Lincoln or North Conway and use either of these towns as your next base in the White Mountains.

Acadia National Park 

Contributed by David & Intan at The World Travel Guy

This national park in coastal Maine is known for its beautiful fall colors, hiking trails, beaches, and carriage roads which can be traveled by foot, bicycle, or horseback.

 

Some of the best hikes in Acadia National Park include the Precipice Trail and the Beehive Trail, both known for being very scenic and a bit scary, although the Beehive Trail is safer.

 

If you’re looking for something easier and tamer to do in the park, check out the Jordan Pond loop or visit the Bass Harbor Light, which is a historic lighthouse on the coast of Mount Desert Island.

 

Acadia is also home to Cadillac Mountain, the tallest mountain on the Atlantic coast and the first place to see the sunrise in the United States. You can drive to the top of the mountain for sunrise, although reservations are usually required.

 

Fall is an especially good time to visit Acadia National Park, because it’s when the foliage comes alive. Early to mid-October is generally the best time to experience fall colors in Acadia, and you don’t even have to do any hiking — wonderful leaf colors are visible on any of the scenic drives in the park!

 

Fall Foliage Festival in Boothbay Harbor

By: Kelly from Girl with the Passport

Looking for one of the best fall activities in New England? If so, then check out the Fall Foliage Festival in Boothbay Harbor.

After all, this exciting festival is an iconic way to welcome the start of fall in mid-coast Maine since this event has existed for well over 52 years.

It’s also typically held during the second weekend in October and costs around $5.00 per person, although children under 12 can enter for free.

So, feel free to stop by the historic Railway Village Museum, where it is held annually, and hop aboard a vintage train as you enter the spirit of the season.

After all, this exciting experience is filled with amazing food trucks, incredible live music, talented local artisans selling their homemade wares, and vibrant fall foliage as far as the eye can see.

Add in a fun children’s corner, live artist exhibits, historic buildings along a 4-acre green that are ready to be explored, and some friendly, resident goats, and you have an event that is perfect for the whole family.

While you are there, don’t miss out on the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens; they are beautiful even in the fall.

So, what are you waiting for? Plan an exciting Maine road trip this fall and add Boothbay Harbor to your itinerary.

 

Hike Mount Sugarloaf

By Elena of The Carry-On Chronicles

There’s truly no better time than fall in The Berkshires to uncover the beauty of this mountainous Massachusetts region. One of the best ways to take advantage of the crisp fall air is with a hike up Mount Sugarloaf State Reservation. This beautiful public recreation area is located in South Deerfield, Massachusetts.

Once at the top, you’ll be treated to a spectacular panorama over the Connecticut River, Pioneer Valley, and the Berkshire and Pelham Hills. While this unique bird’s eye view is stunning year-round, it’s especially spectacular in autumn, with vibrant foliage punctuating the surrounding scenery. Plus, since this fun beginner hike takes only approximately 20 minutes each way, you can still enjoy plenty of extra room in your schedule for other festive fall activities! For instance, in addition to taking in the amazing view, you may also wish to pack a fall picnic, as tables are available at the top by reservation.

You’ll find the entrance to the hike at the cross-section of Route 116 and Sugarloaf Street. While there’s also an auto road you can take to the summit, check availability before visiting, as the road closes seasonally. In addition, keep in mind that there’s a seasonal parking fee of $5.00 for Massachusetts residents and $20 for non-residents.

 

Apple Picking in New England

 

Apple Picking is a favorite Fall pastime for locals and visitors alike. Most towns have an orchard nearby and so opportunities for picking are around every corner. From Apple picking in Connecticut to Apple picking in Maine, you will find hayrides, cider, apple pies, and more.

My family goes every year to welcome Fall and enjoy the foliage and cooler temps, but be aware that certain varieties of apples are ready at certain times, and if you are set on Honeycrisps, you need to go in early September!

Check here for local pick-your-own farms.

Pumpkin Picking

Pumpkins are synonymous with Fall and what better way to get into the spirit of the season than by picking your own pumpkin from a patch. Many farms offer more than just pumpkins with hayrides, corn mazes, and other family activities.

Some allow you to pick your pumpkin off the vine, while others have pumpkins stacked up and ready to grab.

 

Check here for local pick-your-own farms.

Corn mazes

 

Corn mazes are popular at many farms in the area. Fields of corn are turned into intricate mazes that will delight young and old. Most will give you maps, but you can also try your hand at doing it on your own.

 

Fall Foliage Train Rides

The best way to take in all the colors of Fall is from aboard a train. Relax in your seat and enjoy the views as you chug along through New England. Check schedules and book tickets in advance as these rides fill up quickly.

Some of the most popular train rides include:

The Pumpkin Train (Maine)

The Conway Scenic Railroad (New Hampshire)

The Essex Steam Train (Connecticut)

Green Mountain Railway (Vermont)

Berkshires Scenic Railway (Massachusetts)

Take a Scenic Drive

If you don’t want to take a train, then consider taking a drive instead. A Fall road trip with the kids is a great way to see the maximum amount of fall foliage. Many scenic routes throughout New England offer breathtaking views of the foliage. Some of the most popular drives include:

The Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire)

Route 100 (Vermont)

The Mohawk Trail (Massachusetts)

The Acadia Byway (Maine)

Route 9 (Connecticut and Massachusetts)-This is my personal favorite! I don’t think there is more beautiful foliage anywhere on earth!

Visit The Big E

The Big E (Eastern States Exposition) is the largest fair in New England and is held annually in Springfield, Massachusetts. With over 1.5 million visitors yearly, it’s no wonder this fair is so popular. From rides and games to food and attractions, there’s something for everyone at the Big E.

There is plenty to do to entertain you and your whole family for the entire day. Lots of kiddie rides mean that your kids will be happy, tons of delicious fair food, and don’t miss out on the Big E circus which is always tons of fun. We take our kids every year; it is one of the highlights of our fall!

The fair runs from Mid September to Early October.

Visit a Local Fall Festival

 

There are many Fall festivals held throughout New England. From the Apple Harvest Festival in Massachusetts to the Pumpkin Festival in Connecticut, there’s sure to be something for everyone. Check out this list of popular Fall festivals in the area.

Wellfleet Oysterfest– Eat some of the best oysters in the world while enjoying the beautiful fall colors of Cape Cod.

New Hampshire Pumpkin Festival – Enjoy a 5K or 10K and then enjoy live music, tons of Jack O’Lanterns and great food.

Pumpkin Chuckin Festival (Vermont)-Contestants compete to be able to Chuck their Pumpkins the farthest with different contraptions. Crazy fun!

Autumnfest (Rhode Island)- This huge festival takes place in Woonsocket each Columbus Day weekend and is filled with food, music, and fun.

 

Visit Woodstock Vermont

Woodstock is a quintessential New England town and the perfect place to visit in Fall. With its quaint shops and beautiful scenery, it’s no wonder Woodstock was named one of the best towns in Vermont.

In addition to exploring the town, there are also many nearby hiking trails, covered bridges, and waterfalls to enjoy. Plus, don’t forget to sample some local food and wine while you’re here!

Woodstock is beautiful any time of year but is especially fabulous in the fall!

 

Explore a New England Covered Bridge

Covered bridges are synonymous with New England and there are many to choose from throughout the region. While some are more difficult to get to than others, they’re all worth the effort! Here are some of our favorites:

 

The Cornish-Windsor Covered Bridge (New Hampshire/Vermont)

The West Cornwall Covered Bridge (Connecticut)

The Swift River Covered Bridge (New Hampshire)

Ware-Hardwick Covered Bridge (Massachusetts)

Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge (Rhode Island)

 

Visit a New England Waterfall

There are many waterfalls to choose from in New England and they’re all beautiful in their own way. Whether you’re looking for a waterfall that you can hike to or one that’s easily accessible, there’s sure to be one that fits your needs. Plus you get to be surrounded in autumn color!  Here are some of our favorites:

Kent Falls (Connecticut)

The Bash Bish Falls (Massachusetts)

The Arethusa Falls (New Hampshire)

The Gulf Hagas Waterfalls (Maine)

Thundering Brook Falls (Vermont)

 

Hike a New England Trail

One of the best ways to enjoy the Fall foliage is by getting out and hiking one of the many trails in New England. From easy walks to more challenging hikes, there’s something for everyone. And, don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views!

Some of our favorite trails include:

The Flume Gorge Trail (New Hampshire)

The Mohawk Trail (Massachusetts)

The Lye Brook Falls Trail (Vermont)

The Beehive Trail (Maine)

 

Visit a Bridge of Flowers

 

The Bridge of Flowers is a must-see in Fall. Located in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts, this bridge is covered in over 500 varieties of flowers. It’s open from April 1st – October 31st, and admission is free.

Flowers are still blooming into mid and late October and are enhanced by the beautiful view.

 

Take a Leaf-Peeping Cruise

One of the best ways to see the Fall foliage is from aboard a cruise ship. There are many different cruises to choose from, ranging in length from one day to several days. And, with so many different scenic routes to choose from, you’re sure to find one that fits your needs.

Some of the most popular cruises include:

The Newport Leaf Peeping Cruise (Rhode Island)

The Maine Windjammer Cruise (Maine)

The Mystic Seaport Fall Foliage Cruise (Connecticut)

The Fall Foliage Cruise on Lake Champlain (Vermont)

 

 

Visit Spooky Salem, Massachusetts

Salem is best known for its witch trials of 1692, but this quaint town offers some of the best spooky fun during the month of October. From haunted houses and cemeteries to witch museums and tours, Salem is the perfect place to get your fill of all things spooky. The town is open year-round, but Fall is the best time to visit.

Go to a Cranberry Bog

Cranberries are synonymous with Fall in New England and during the fall cranberries are harvested and it is a sight to behold. Cranberry bogs are flooded and the beautiful red cranberries float to the top to be skimmed off.

Most bog tours are free and there are many bogs to choose from throughout the region. While some are more difficult to get to than others, they’re all worth the effort!

Check out one of these popular cranberry bogs listed here.

 

Sail on a schooner from Camden, Maine.

Take to the water to see the beautiful autumn colors when you ride on the Schooner Olaf. This two-hour sail leaves from Camden, Maine and gives you plenty of time to enjoy the sights. The Olaf is a historic vessel and the perfect way to see the Fall foliage.

 

 

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, there’s sure to be something for everyone in New England this Fall. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip for Fall in New England today!