As the crisp autumn air sets in and the landscape transforms into a palette of red, orange, and gold, New England becomes one of the most picturesque regions in the United States. Fall foliage hiking in this area, particularly in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, is a must-do for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely walk to soak in the fall colors, there are trails that offer breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best fall foliage hikes in New England, focusing on the beautiful regions of Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. We’ll also provide essential tips on firewood availability and compliance with local fire restrictions to ensure your trip is both enjoyable and safe.
Location: Stowe, Vermont
Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, is a favorite destination for fall hikers. The Long Trail, which crosses through Underhill State Park, offers several options, including a challenging climb to the summit or easier routes for more casual hikers. In autumn, the views of the Green Mountains ablaze with color are unbeatable.
Best Trail for Fall Foliage: The Sunset Ridge Trail is a 5.9-mile round trip that leads hikers to the top of Mount Mansfield. The panoramic views of rolling hills and fall foliage make it one of the top-rated trails in Vermont.
Tip: October is peak foliage season, but be prepared for chilly winds near the summit. Bringing layers and checking local fire restrictions is essential if you plan to camp overnight.
Firewood Availability: Underhill State Park offers designated fire pits, and campers can buy firewood locally. Avoid bringing firewood from other regions to prevent spreading pests. To find local firewood sources, use the crowd-sourced map at Stacked.camp.
Location: Huntington, Vermont
Camel's Hump is another iconic Vermont peak with spectacular fall colors. The Burrows Trail is the most popular path, leading to the summit through dense hardwood forests that transform into brilliant shades of yellow and orange each fall.
Best Trail for Fall Foliage: The Burrows Trail is a moderate 4.8-mile round trip. You'll enjoy a steady climb and stunning views at the top, making it perfect for hikers of all skill levels.
Tip: This trail is quite popular during peak foliage season, so plan to arrive early to secure parking. Also, be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the environment.
Firewood Availability: Firewood is available from local vendors near Camel’s Hump. You can also use Stacked.camp to locate firewood suppliers.
Location: Jeffersonville, Vermont
Smugglers’ Notch offers some of the best leaf-peeping opportunities in New England. This narrow pass through the Green Mountains is not only rich in history but also surrounded by towering cliffs and vibrant fall foliage.
Best Trail for Fall Foliage: The Sterling Pond Trail is a moderate 2.3-mile hike to one of Vermont’s highest alpine ponds. The trailhead starts just below Smugglers' Notch, and the fall colors reflect beautifully off the pond’s surface.
Tip: Plan your visit on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds, and always check for updates on fire restrictions before lighting campfires.
Firewood Availability: Firewood can be found in nearby towns. Make sure to use the resources at Stacked.camp for up-to-date firewood availability and fire safety information.
Location: Franconia, New Hampshire
The Franconia Ridge Loop is one of the most scenic hikes in the White Mountains, offering 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. In the fall, the entire area is blanketed with vibrant foliage, making it an unbeatable location for leaf peeping.
Best Trail for Fall Foliage: This 8.6-mile loop includes the Falling Waters Trail, which passes waterfalls before leading to the exposed ridgeline of Little Haystack Mountain, Mount Lincoln, and Mount Lafayette.
Tip: This trail can be challenging, so it's best for experienced hikers. Fall mornings can be cold, so be prepared with warm clothing. Fires are not allowed along the ridge, so be sure to follow all fire safety guidelines.
Firewood Availability: Franconia Notch has several campgrounds nearby, and firewood can be purchased locally. Avoid bringing firewood from out of state, and use Stacked.camp to find safe firewood options.
Location: Albany, New Hampshire
Mount Chocorua is one of the most photographed peaks in New England, especially during the fall. The mountain’s jagged summit offers sweeping views of the White Mountains and the surrounding foliage.
Best Trail for Fall Foliage: The Champney Falls Trail is a popular 7.6-mile round trip that includes beautiful waterfalls along the way. The ascent to the summit rewards hikers with unbeatable views of fiery fall colors.
Tip: Be cautious of slippery rocks around the falls, especially after rain. Always check the latest fire restrictions before planning a campfire.
Firewood Availability: The White Mountain National Forest has strict rules about gathering firewood. It's best to purchase it locally, and Stacked.camp can help you find vendors in the area.
Location: Franconia, New Hampshire
For a shorter, family-friendly hike with stunning views, Artist’s Bluff is a must. The trail leads to a cliff with views of Echo Lake and Cannon Mountain, framed by the brilliant autumn leaves.
Best Trail for Fall Foliage: The Artist’s Bluff Trail is a 1.5-mile loop that’s accessible for all skill levels. The foliage reflected in Echo Lake is a photographer’s dream.
Tip: This is an excellent hike for beginners or those short on time. Due to the area's popularity, arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Firewood Availability: Firewood can be purchased at local campgrounds or through vendors in Franconia. Use Stacked.camp to find nearby firewood suppliers and fire authority contacts.
Location: Mount Desert Island, Maine
Cadillac Mountain is one of the first places in the U.S. to see the sunrise, and during fall, it provides a front-row seat to some of the most spectacular foliage in New England. The mountain is the highest point along the North Atlantic seaboard.
Best Trail for Fall Foliage: The South Ridge Trail is a 7.1-mile round trip that ascends Cadillac Mountain, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and colorful forests below.
Tip: Plan a sunrise hike for an unforgettable experience, but be sure to bring a headlamp and warm clothes. Fires are not allowed in certain areas, so check regulations before planning a campfire.
Firewood Availability: Firewood is available near Acadia, but make sure to buy it locally to prevent the spread of pests. Stacked.camp can guide you to local firewood vendors.
Location: Mount Desert Island, Maine
For a more relaxed hike, the Jordan Pond Path offers stunning views of fall foliage reflected in the water. The trail circles the pond, and the nearby Bubbles Mountains provide an idyllic backdrop.
Best Trail for Fall Foliage: The Jordan Pond Path is a 3.5-mile loop that is mostly flat and perfect for all ages and abilities.
Tip: This trail can get busy during peak foliage season, so try to visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Firewood Availability: Local firewood can be purchased near Acadia National Park. Use Stacked.camp to find firewood suppliers.
Location: Brownville, Maine
Known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," Gulf Hagas is a gorge that features waterfalls, cliffs, and spectacular foliage in the fall. It's a bit off the beaten path, but well worth the effort for those seeking a more secluded hike.
Great Article on Hiking In Maine Blog →
Best Trail for Fall Foliage: The Rim Trail is a 5.2-mile loop that runs along the edge of the gorge. You’ll enjoy views of cascading waterfalls surrounded by fiery autumn leaves.
Tip: Gulf Hagas is remote, so be sure to pack everything you need for a day in the wilderness, including plenty of water and snacks.
Firewood Availability: The 100-Mile Wilderness is a remote area, so it’s essential to buy firewood before arriving. Check Stacked.camp for nearby vendors and fire safety information.
As beautiful as these New England hikes are in the fall, fire safety is a top priority. The
autumn season can bring dry conditions, increasing the risk of wildfires. Always check local fire restrictions before starting any campfires. Many areas have strict rules about where and when fires are allowed, especially during peak leaf-peeping season.
You can use Stacked.camp to find your local fire authority and stay updated on fire bans and restrictions in real-time. By following these guidelines, you’ll help protect these stunning landscapes for future generations.
New England in the fall is a true hiker’s paradise, with vibrant foliage and scenic views that are unmatched anywhere else in the country. Whether you’re trekking through the Green Mountains of Vermont, the White Mountains of New Hampshire, or exploring Acadia in Maine, these hikes offer an unforgettable experience during peak foliage season.
Remember to practice responsible camping by sourcing firewood locally and adhering to fire restrictions. Stacked.camp is your go-to resource for finding firewood and staying up to date on local fire regulations.
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