New England’s fall foliage is nothing short of legendary, and there’s no better way to experience it than by visiting the region’s charming lakeside towns.
The allure of New England’s lakeside towns during fall is undeniable. These towns not only offer stunning views of the foliage reflecting off tranquil waters but also host a variety of events that draw crowds year after year. Late September to mid-October is the prime time to visit, although the colors can last well into November in some areas. As you explore, you’ll find yourself surrounded by nature’s masterpiece, with plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in local culture.
We’ve picked our eight charming lakeside towns to explore in New England.
Stowe, Vermont: A Fall Foliage Wonderland
Stowe is one of Vermont’s most iconic fall destinations, nestled at the foot of Mount Mansfield and offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. The town itself is a picture-perfect New England village, with a charming main street filled with boutiques, cafes, and galleries. During fall, the Stowe Foliage Arts Festival takes center stage, featuring local crafts, live music, and delicious regional foods. Don’t miss the Stowe Recreation Path, a 5.3-mile trail that winds through vibrant foliage, offering views of the West Branch River and several covered bridges, including the famous Emily’s Bridge.
For a more scenic drive, take Route 100, known as Vermont’s “Main Street,” which runs through Stowe and offers breathtaking views of Lake Elmore. From Stowe, a short drive brings you to the scenic lookout at Smugglers’ Notch, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the fall colors blanketing the Green Mountains. If you’re up for a hike, the Stowe Pinnacle Trail rewards you with incredible vistas of the Worcester Range.
Litchfield, Connecticut: A Historic Town with Stunning Views
Litchfield Hills in Connecticut is a region rich with history and natural beauty, making it a perfect spot for fall foliage enthusiasts. The town of Litchfield is known for its beautifully preserved colonial architecture and historic sites. During the fall, the nearby White Memorial Conservation Center becomes a hub of activity, offering guided nature walks, birdwatching, and photography workshops focused on capturing the beauty of the season. The annual Litchfield Hills Road Race, held in early October, draws runners and spectators alike, providing a festive atmosphere in the heart of town.
Take a scenic drive around Lake Waramaug, just a short trip from Litchfield, where the 8-mile loop around the lake offers stunning foliage views. The road is lined with classic New England stone walls, and you’ll find several spots perfect for picnicking or snapping photos. For those interested in covered bridges, the Bull’s Bridge on Route 7 is just a short drive away and offers a quintessential New England experience, especially when surrounded by fall colors.
Woodstock, Vermont: A Quintessential New England Village
Woodstock, often referred to as the “prettiest small town in America,” truly shines in the fall. This historic village is home to the Billings Farm & Museum, where you can experience traditional Vermont farming and enjoy the annual Harvest Weekend in October, which features wagon rides, cider pressing, and pumpkin carving. The town’s main street is lined with charming shops and restaurants, all set against a backdrop of vibrant fall foliage.
Just outside of Woodstock, take a drive on Route 4 towards Quechee, and you’ll find the Taftsville Covered Bridge, one of Vermont’s oldest and most picturesque, spanning the Ottauquechee River. For a stunning view of the fall landscape, head to the scenic overlook at Mount Tom, accessible via the carriage trails in the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park. The hike to the top is moderate and rewards you with panoramic views of Woodstock and the surrounding countryside, ablaze in fall colors.
Camden, Maine: Coastal Charm Meets Autumn Splendor
Camden, Maine, offers a unique blend of coastal charm and stunning fall foliage. This picturesque town sits on Penobscot Bay, where the colorful leaves meet the deep blues of the Atlantic Ocean. Camden Hills State Park is a must-visit during the fall, offering miles of hiking trails with views of Camden Harbor and the islands dotting the bay. The park’s most famous spot, the summit of Mount Battie, provides a sweeping view of the town and harbor, framed by the brilliant autumn colors.
Camden’s Fall Harbor Arts & Crafts Show, held annually in October, showcases the work of local artisans and attracts visitors from all over New England. The town itself is filled with historic inns, boutique shops, and seafood restaurants, making it the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area. A scenic drive along Route 1 offers breathtaking views of Penobscot Bay and takes you through the charming town of Rockport, where you can visit the Andre the Seal Statue, a local landmark.
Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire: A Lakeside Retreat
Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire’s largest lake, is surrounded by charming towns and spectacular fall foliage. Meredith, located on the western shore of the lake, is a popular destination for leaf-peepers, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. During the fall, the town hosts the Annual New Hampshire Pumpkin Festival, where you can see thousands of carved pumpkins lit up at night, enjoy live music, and participate in family-friendly activities.
A drive along the Lakes Region Scenic Byway offers incredible views of the lake with the White Mountains as a backdrop. Don’t miss a visit to Castle in the Clouds, a historic estate perched high above the lake, offering panoramic views of the surrounding foliage. From Meredith, it’s an easy drive to the scenic lookout at Mount Major, where a moderate hike will reward you with one of the best views of Lake Winnipesaukee and its vibrant autumn colors.
Wolfeboro, New Hampshire: The Oldest Summer Resort in America
Wolfeboro, nestled on the eastern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee, is often referred to as “The Oldest Summer Resort in America.” This charming town is a popular destination year-round, but it truly comes alive in the fall when the vibrant foliage reflects off the lake’s calm waters. Wolfeboro is known for its quaint downtown area, where you’ll find a mix of boutiques, cafes, and art galleries housed in historic buildings.
During the fall, the town hosts the Wolfeboro Fall Arts and Crafts Festival, showcasing the work of local artisans amidst the backdrop of the changing leaves. Take a scenic drive along Route 109 for beautiful views of the lake, or explore the Cotton Valley Rail Trail, which offers an easy, picturesque walk or bike ride along the water’s edge. For a more immersive experience, consider a boat tour on the M/V Mount Washington, which departs from Wolfeboro and offers a unique perspective of the lake and surrounding mountains in their autumn glory.
Rangeley, Maine: A Wilderness Escape with Stunning Views
Rangeley, located in the heart of Maine’s lake country, is a small town known for its outdoor activities and breathtaking natural beauty. Set on the shores of Rangeley Lake and surrounded by the mountains of western Maine, this town is a paradise for leaf-peepers seeking a more rugged, wilderness experience. The fall colors here are particularly vibrant, with the mix of hardwood forests and evergreens creating a striking contrast against the clear blue waters of the lake.
Rangeley’s significance extends beyond its natural beauty; it’s a hub for those exploring the nearby Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway, a 52-mile loop that offers some of the best fall foliage views in the region. The drive includes stops at Height of Land, a well-known scenic overlook offering panoramic views of Mooselookmeguntic Lake and the mountains beyond, all ablaze in autumn colors. In town, the Rangeley Oktoberfest is a local favorite, featuring craft beer, live music, and traditional German fare, all set against the backdrop of fall’s brilliant hues.
New London, New Hampshire: A Quaint College Town with Scenic Beauty
New London, situated near the shores of Pleasant Lake and Lake Sunapee, is a picturesque town that combines small-town charm with stunning natural scenery. Home to Colby-Sawyer College, New London has a lively cultural scene that’s enhanced by the vibrant fall foliage each year. The town’s historic district is particularly charming in autumn, with tree-lined streets leading to quaint shops, cafes, and galleries.
During the fall, New London hosts the annual New London Fall Foliage Festival, a beloved community event featuring a parade, crafts fair, and various family-friendly activities. The festival is a great way to experience the town’s welcoming atmosphere while enjoying the peak fall colors. For those looking to explore the outdoors, Mount Sunapee State Park is just a short drive away and offers a variety of hiking trails, including the popular Summit Trail, which provides breathtaking views of the surrounding lakes and mountains. Don’t miss a visit to the scenic overlook on Route 103B, where you can take in sweeping vistas of Lake Sunapee framed by the brilliant reds and oranges of autumn.
Making The Most of Your Trip To New England This Fall
New England’s lakeside towns aren’t just beautiful—they’re your gateway to experiencing the region’s rich history, vibrant local culture, and the stunning spectacle of fall foliage. Ready to make your autumn adventure truly unforgettable? Head over to Lake.com and find your ideal vacation rental today, where you can wake up to serene lake views and the dazzling colors of fall right outside your door. Pack your bags, reserve your stay, and prepare to explore some of the most picturesque and welcoming towns New England has to offer this season.
