There is no place quite like Vermont in September. As the summer heat fades into crisp, cool mornings and the Green Mountains begin their transformation into shades of fiery orange, deep red, and golden yellow, Greater Burlington comes alive.
Whether you’ve lived in Chittenden County your whole life or you’re exploring the area with an eye on making it your home, autumn offers a vibrant reminder of why we love calling Northwest Vermont home. From apple picking on sunny hillsides to scenic backroad drives, here is your guide to enjoying the very best of autumn around Greater Burlington.
Top Apple Orchards for Picking & Cider Donuts
Nothing says fall in Chittenden County like a brown paper bag full of crisp McIntosh apples and a warm cider donut. Here are a few favorite local orchards to visit this season:
- Shelburne Orchards (Shelburne): Perched along the shores of Lake Champlain, Shelburne Orchards offers incredible water views alongside rows of classic apple trees. Beyond picking your own apples you can sip freshly pressed cider, pick up farm-made cider donuts, and enjoy tractor rides around the property.
- Adams Apple Orchard & Market (Williston): Located in Williston, Adams Apple Orchard is a go-to spot for families looking for an easy, accessible picking experience. Their farm market is stocked year-round with Vermont specialty food items, fresh pies, seasonal produce, and local gifts.
- Chapin Orchard (Essex Junction): For a peaceful, classic orchard experience, Chapin Orchard in Essex Junction is a local favorite. They grow dozens of apple varieties, offer hayrides on busy weekend afternoons, and provide fresh apple cider that tastes like September in a glass.
Favorite Pumpkin Patches & Fall Family Fun
Finding the perfect jack-o'-lantern pumpkin is a seasonal tradition for local families. These spots combine pumpkin picking with corn mazes, tractor rides, and autumn fun:
- Isham Family Farm (Williston): Set on historic farmland in Williston, Isham Family Farm offers pick-your-own pumpkins, a festive corn maze, hayrides, and scenic walking trails. It’s an ideal weekend destination for all ages.
- Sam Mazza’s Farm Market (Colchester): Known for its expansive farm market and bakery, Sam Mazza’s in Colchester features a sprawling pumpkin patch and an annual themed corn maze that draws visitors from across the county.
- Whitcomb’s Land of Pumpkins & Corn Maze (Williston): Whitcomb’s is packed with pumpkins of all shapes, sizes, and colors. Their custom-designed corn maze adds an extra element of fun after you’ve picked your porch decor.
Breathtaking Autumn Scenic Drives Near Burlington
If you want to take in the peak foliage from the comfort of your car, Greater Burlington is surrounded by world-class scenic drives:
- Route 7 South to Charlotte & Shelburne: For a gentle drive close to home, head south down Route 7. You’ll pass open farm fields framed by the Green Mountains to the east and Lake Champlain to the west. Make a loop by turning off onto Lake Road in Charlotte for stunning views of the Adirondacks across the water.
- Smugglers' Notch Pass (Route 108): For a dramatic foliage experience, take I-89 to Route 100 or Route 15 up toward Stowe and Smugglers' Notch. Route 108 winds through narrow mountain passes lined with towering hardwood trees, boulder formations, and brilliant canopy colors. (Note: Drive carefully and avoid bringing oversized vehicles through the notch!)
- Route 2 East to Richmond & Waterbury: Heading east along Route 2 takes you right alongside the Winooski River, winding through charming towns like Richmond and Bolton. Stop by the iconic Richmond Round Church framed by autumn leaves, or pull over at local farm stands along the way.
Why Autumn Makes People Fall in Love with Greater Burlington
Fall in Northwest Vermont is a lifestyle. It’s the time of year when neighborhood block parties shift toward cozy bonfire gatherings, local farmers' markets overflow with harvest crops, and weekend hikes up Mount Philo offer views of Lake Champlain.
If you’re visiting the area this season and find yourself dreaming about waking up to these mountain views every day, you’re not alone. September is one of the most popular times for prospective buyers to tour homes in Chittenden County, getting a true feel for the warmth and character of our local communities.
At Geri Reilly Real Estate, we’ve been helping individuals and families find their place in Greater Burlington for decades. Whether you're curious about neighborhood market trends, looking for your dream home, or thinking about selling while curb appeal is at its peak, our local team is here to help every step of the way.
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