This Underrated Scenic Drive in Vermont Is the Perfect Dupe for the Blue Ridge Parkway

After spending nearly 20 years in Asheville driving the Blue Ridge Parkway, I thought I knew everything about scenic routes. Then I discovered Vermont Route 100. Stretching 216 miles through the heart of the Green Mountains, this Vermont scenic drive delivers the same breathtaking vistas and winding roads that road-trippers dream about, but with fewer crowds and charming small towns at every turn. It’s the perfect Blue Ridge Parkway alternative for anyone looking to trade the Southern Appalachians for classic New England scenery.

Route 100 runs from north to south down the center of Vermont, connecting small towns, historic covered bridges, and the wild, mountainous terrain of the Green Mountains. You can start near the Canadian border in Newport, Vermont, and follow it all the way to Stamford, Massachusetts (or vice versa). It’s a great option if you’ve already explored the Blue Ridge or just want something new, quieter, and a little more off-the-radar.

One of the best things about Route 100 is how easy it is to explore. While the Blue Ridge Parkway has restrictions on commercial vehicles and limited exits, Route 100 gives you a lot more freedom. You get the views and the convenience, with local shops, farm-to-table restaurants, cozy inns, and scenic stops never far off the road.

When to Visit for Peak Scenery & Seasonal Highlights

Fall is when the Green Mountains put on a real show. Red maples, golden birches, and bright orange oaks cover the hills in every direction, and the colors are just as jaw-dropping as what you’ll find down south. The difference? You’ll generally avoid the heavy, parkway-style gridlock. While Route 100 definitely gets busier during peak foliage season, especially around hubs like Stowe and Waterbury, it rarely feels like the bumper-to-bumper standstill of the Blue Ridge. For the best fall foliage drive in Vermont, plan your trip between late September and mid-October.

But Route 100 isn't just a fall destination. In summer, the forests are lush and the swimming holes, like the rock pools at Warren Falls, are perfect for a mid-drive dip. Spring brings roaring waterfalls and mountain wildflowers, while winter transforms the corridor into a skier's paradise, connecting heavy hitters like Stowe, Sugarbush, and Killington.

If you want to stretch your legs, you don’t have to look far. Dozens of trailheads along the route lead to the Long Trail, the oldest long-distance hiking path in the country. If you’re hauling a bike, the world-class flow trails at Cady Hill Forest in Stowe or the rugged networks in the Mad River Valley are right off the main road. For those who prefer being on the water, the lakes and rivers lining the route are easy to access for a quick paddle.

Best Stops Along Vermont Route 100

Much like the mountain towns surrounding Asheville, Route 100 is dotted with local institutions and creative hubs. Stop at the Vermont Country Store in Weston for a dose of nostalgia, or swing by the Ben & Jerry’s factory in Waterbury for a scoop of ice cream. Stowe is always worth a visit for its classic village charm, but the real magic is tucked away in the hills of Waitsfield and Warren, where artists, glassblowers, and furniture makers quietly work in sun-drenched, small-town studios.

If you’re up for a slight detour, take Route 108 through Smugglers’ Notch. The narrow mountain pass winds through giant boulders, steep cliffs, and tight turns that large vehicles can’t even pass through. It’s a wild stretch of road and one of the most scenic drives in Vermont.

Unlike other scenic routes built specifically for tourism, Route 100 grew over time to connect Vermont’s historic towns. The drive is lined with white-steepled churches and weathered red barns—classic New England scenes framed by constant mountain views.

Tips for Planning Your Route 100 Road Trip

The full drive takes about five to seven hours without stopping, covering roughly 216 miles, but most people take two or three days to enjoy it at a leisurely pace. Cell service can be unreliable in some areas, so it’s smart to download your maps ahead of time. You’ll find public restrooms in most towns and state parks along the way.

Vermont Route 100 won't replace the Blue Ridge Parkway—but it doesn't need to. This scenic drive through the Green Mountains delivers postcard-worthy views, small-town charm, and seasonal beauty on its own terms, and without the Parkway crowds. To make the most of your trip, be sure to visit State of Vermont Tourism for travel tips, lodging info, and seasonal updates.