There is a lake in Vermont where the water is the same color as an emerald. With waters this uniquely green, there is no better name than Emerald Lake. In fact, the entire State Park pays homage to this gorgeous lake and is called the Emerald Lake State Park! Let's take a closer look and see the beauty of these green waters.
The lake is named after its Emerald color from above, but as you can see, it’s beautiful from the land as well.
As I'm sure you know, fall in Vermont is one of the most stunning times of the year to visit the Green Mountain State. Aside from enjoying a delicious cider, going apple picking, taking a hike, and enjoying Halloween, Vermont is the place to be if you're like me and love admiring the fall foliage.
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In this 2024 fall foliage map from the Smoky Mountains, you'll discover the anticipated prime times for leaf-peeping season in Vermont this year. So, before setting off to the Green Mountain State, read on to learn more about the predicted dates to experience the leaves changing their colors in Vermont this fall.
Per the scale of this interactive Smoky Mountain Fall Foliage Prediction Map, the leaves in Vermont will begin to show shades of red, orange, and yellow early, around mid-September.
According to the prediction map, the leaf-peeping season in Vermont is expected to be in its prime starting the beginning of October. At the height of the season, expect to see the leaves at their peak with vibrant colors such as those in this photo taken in Marlboro, Vermont.
In addition to taking a road trip, we recommend getting up close and personal by taking a hike or camping when the leaves in Vermont change their colors.
We also recommend having a camera on hand that can capture these breathtaking views in their truest form.
One of the best ways to see epic views when the leaves change colors in Vermont is by taking a hike. Feel free to reference our ultimate hiking packing guide for useful tips that'll help you have a memorable adventure in nature. And, if you need suggestions of which trails to hit, check out these fall hiking trails in Vermont.
Vermont is one of the most - if not the most - beautiful places in the world. That's just a fact and one that we can probably all agree on. While travelers may flock here to marvel at the brilliance of the fall foliage, the Vermont landscape is simply spellbinding in every season. Part of what makes Vermont so special is its many natural attractions. We never want for things to do, either, and if we do, we can simply visit one of the many awe-inspiring natural wonders in Vermont.
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Best Gorges & Canyons In Vermont
Life in Vermont means being treated to some of the most breathtaking natural beauty just about everywhere we go. Next time adventure comes calling, answer with a visit to one of the best gorges and canyons in Vermont.
Wow Factor: Breathtaking views of the 165-foot-deep gorge
Cost: $5 for adults, $2 for kids four to 13, and kids three and younger are free
While the Grand Canyon might snag all of the accolades, we have our very own Grand Canyon of Vermont. Quechee Gorge, nestled in Quechee State Park, was formed by glaciers more than 13,000 years ago, making it one of the most awe-inspiring natural attractions in Vermont. For some of the most spellbinding views in Vermont, set off on the 1.3-mile Quechee Gorge Trail. The easy trail also leads to the Quechee Gorge Bridge, a historic covered bridge.
Experience some of the best nature in Vermont when you visit
Otter Creek Gorge, a simply sensational natural wonder that's beautiful in all seasons. Follow the 2.6-mile Otter Creek Gorge Trail that boasts stunning views. For the best views, however, stroll over the Arnold Bridge. It's high and could get your heart fluttering if you're afraid of heights. However, you'll be treated to some of the best views in Vermont.
best natural attractions in Vermont, and that's the case with Brewster River Gorge in Jeffersonville. Follow the 2.7-mile Brewster River Trail, an easy path that boasts beautiful views of the gorge, the lush scenery, and a covered bridge.
Best Caves In Vermont
While Vermont isn't known for caves, it's still home to a few that are well worth a spot on our nature bucket list. When you're itching for a one-of-a-kind adventure, head to one of the best caves in Vermont.
Wow Factor: A mountain cave that visitors can explore
Cost: Free
Sometimes the best nature in Vermont is where we least expect it, like on the campus of Southern Vermont College. That's where you'll find Everett Cave, carved into Mt. Anthony. Bring a flashlight if you plan to explore the cave that is found along the Cave Trail. Be sure to also wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots, and dress for the weather. It's colder inside the cave than it is outside, so keep that in mind before setting off.
Wow Factor: Magnificent caves that date back more than 10,000 years
Cost: Free
For a one-of-a-kind adventure, plan a visit to the
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Donahue Sea Caves in Burlington. However, there's a catch. The only way to see this unique natural wonder in Vermont during the warmer months is to kayak or canoe. During the winter, though, you can walk on the frozen Lake Champlain to explore the sea caves.
Best Waterfalls In Vermont
Undeniably one of the best ways to admire the natural beauty around us is to chase some of the best waterfalls in Vermont. Even better than a Vermont waterfall? The fact that we can usually visit them in any season.
Wow Factor: Three waterfalls in the middle of the forest
Cost: Free
Waterfalls are, arguably, must-see nature in Vermont, and one of the state's top waterfalls is Buttermilk Falls, tucked in Okemo State Forest. The half-mile Buttermilk Falls Trail leads to the breathtaking (three) cascades. While the Vermont waterfalls are accessible at any time of the year, icy conditions are common during the winter. In the summer, bring your swimming gear. The pools into which the waterfalls drop double as popular swimming holes.
Location: Green Mountain National Forest, Hancock, VT
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Wow Factor: Sensational views from a wooden bridge above the 35-foot waterfall
Cost: Free
A short but sweet 0.1-mile trail leads straight to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Vermont. Both kid and dog-friendly, the trail features several ways to view the cascade, which showcases some of the best nature in Vermont. For one-of-a-kind views, stroll across the wooden bridge that stands above the waterfall. Swimming is not permitted in the pool into which the waterfall drops.
All that stands between you and the tallest waterfall in Vermont, Moss Glen Falls, is the five-mile Moss Glen Falls Trail. However, the waterfall in C.C. Putnam State Forest sits at the beginning of the trail, so you don't have to traverse the whole path if you don't feel like it. Bring your camera to snap photos of this majestic cascade that tumbles 85 feet. Leashed dogs are permitted on the trail.
Wow Factor: Emerald waterfall doubles as a swimming hole
Cost: Free
Whether you want to marvel at the sheer natural beauty or cool off on a hot summer day, Warren Falls, a striking natural wonder in Vermont, is the place to go. The three-tiered waterfall drops around 20 feet and promises stunning views in all four seasons. If you plan to go swimming, do not dive into the water as the deepest sections are about 10 feet.
Best Overlooks & Scenic Vistas In Vermont
Since we're spoiled with some of the best natural scenery in the world, we should take advantage of it by seeing as much of it as we can. When we're not really up for a hike or we don't have a ton of time, we can head to one of the best overlooks and scenic visits in Vermont to drink in some of those beautiful views.
Wow Factor: Stunning views of the Adirondack Mountains in NY
Cost: Free
Bring a picnic along when you visit Overlook Park in South Burlington, which boasts some of the best views in Vermont. Drink in awe-inspiring views of the Vermont scenery, and the Adirondack Mountains in New York, from the overlook. You don't even have to get out of your car. However, if you've got the time, sit down at a picnic table, have a bite, and enjoy the views.
We can never get enough of the breathtaking natural beauty in Vermont, so a stop at Hogback Mountain Overlook is a must. One of the best nature spots in Vermont is right outside of the Hogback Mountain Gift Shop. Bring your camera to snap photos of the views that stretch for 100 miles and then head into the gift shop to grab a treat and stock up on unique gifts.
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Best Rock Formations in Vermont
Living in Vermont pretty much demands we have a bucket list. After all, there is so much to do that we don't want to miss any of it. When you're creating - or updating - your bucket list, add the best rock formations in Vermont to it.
Wow Factor: A limestone rock that offers sensational views
Cost: Free, but you must obtain a pass before visiting
Created by an exposed thrust fault, Lone Rock Point is perhaps one of the most unique geological wonders in Vermont. To view this Vermont natural wonder, follow the 1.1-mile Rock Point Loop Trail, which offers beautiful views of Lake Champlain. Maybe take a picnic and make a day of it. Because the land on which the trails meander is owned by the Episcopal Diocese, you'll first need to obtain a free pass to visit. (See the link above to get your pass.)
Wow Factor: Magnificent rock formations that create pools
Cost: Free
While you can visit Bolton Potholes any time of the year, they're particularly popular during the summer. The natural rock formations have created three waterfalls, boasting a drop of 45 feet, that tumble into shimmering pools of water. Those pools have become popular swimming holes.
Unique Natural Wonders in Vermont
Vermont is certainly one of the most beautiful places to live and visit in the United States. It's also home to several unique natural wonders, which showcase that beauty. Here are two unique natural wonders in Vermont that we've all heard of and likely have visited quite a few times.
Wow Factor: Sensational views that stretch as far as Southern Quebec
Cost: Free
Journey along the Mount Pisgah Trail, which winds 4.1 miles and boasts some of the most incredible natural beauty - Willoughby Lake and forests - in Vermont. You can even see Southern Quebec on clear days. Rated difficult, the trail is particularly popular during autumn at the peak of the fall foliage.
At 120 miles long and 12 miles wide, Lake Champlain is the largest lake in Vermont and perhaps one of its greatest gems. You have seemingly endless ways to admire the beauty of this Vermont lake - from kayaking to enjoying waterfront dining in Burlington. If you're heading to New York, cross over Lake Champlain on one of the ferries that travels between the two states. Or, drive down to Chimney Point and drive across the Lake Champlain Bridge.
What are your favorite natural wonders in Vermont? Are there any natural attractions in Vermont that you think everyone should visit at least once? Let us know in the comments! Ready for more adventure? Here are just a few more of the best nature spots in Vermont. Road trip?
No matter where your next adventure in Vermont takes you, make sure you're prepared with comfy shoes, water, and a camera.
