How to View Vermont Fall Foliage Along Route 9

The state of Vermont has spectacular fall foliage in bright hues of red, orange, and yellow set against beautiful, picturesque backdrops. In this article I will highlight how to view fall foliage along route 9 from Brattleboro to Bennington.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Head West from Brattleboro along Route 9. You will encounter many scenic spots with beautiful foliage.

2. Stop at the Hogback Mountain 100 mile view. It's right on Route 9 just before you get to Wilmington. There is a boardwalk, and a spectacular view. It has a beautiful view year round but especially magnificent during foliage season.

3. Visit the town of Wilmington. Take a walk around town. Parking can seem tricky to find when it is peak season. There is, however, a large lot that's easy to find if you know where to look for it. While heading West along Route 9, take a left at the light in the center of town and just a very short distance down that street on the left there's a big parking area. If, instead, you go straight through the light, there's another, smaller lot to the left between the shops. Wilmington is a pleasant little town with many nice shops and restaurants. It's a great place to eat or find a souvenir.

4. Continue along Route 9 until your reach Bennington. There you will find many tourist attractions. The must visit place to view the fall foliage is the Bennington Battle Monument which is 306' tall. For a small fee, you can take an elevator up to a viewing area about 3/4 of the way to the top. The foliage view from all four sides of the tower is spectacular.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep in mind that peak color of fall foliage varies from place to place and year to year. It's hard to predict too far in advance when the peak will be. The first two weeks of October are generally the best. Try to time your visit by checking on local conditions.