Road Trip Guide
Vermont Route 100: The Skier's Highway & Autumn Dream
Wilmington to Newport
Start Your Engine
Wilmington
The Finish Line
Newport
216 miles
Miles
3-4 days
Days
Start Stops End
Trip Essentials for Wilmington
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Insider Driving Tips
Peak fall foliage usually occurs in early to mid-October; book accommodations at least 6 months in advance.
Be prepared for limited cell service; download offline maps before you start your journey.
Keep an eye out for moose, especially in the early morning or at dusk in the northern sections of the road.
Many local shops and 'mom and pop' restaurants close early; plan your dinner stops before 7:00 PM.
Visit during 'mud season' (spring) at your own riskβmany dirt roads off Route 100 become impassable.
The Journey: Stop-by-Stop
Weston
The Bryant House
βLocated right next to the Country Store, this restaurant serves classic New England comfort food like chicken pot pie and maple-glazed ham.β
Weston Town Green
The perfect angle of the white-steepled church across the green, especially beautiful in the fall.
Old Grist Mill
The historic mill on the edge of town provides a rustic and charming backdrop for landscape shots.
The Farrar-Mansur House
A beautifully preserved 1797 tavern and home that offers a fascinating look at early Vermont life through local artifacts.
Killington & Pico
Long Trail Brewing Company
βLocated just off Route 100 in nearby Bridgewater Corners. The deck overlooking the Ottauquechee River is the perfect place for a local craft beer.β
Killington Peak Summit
The 360-degree views from the top are unmatched in Vermont, especially during the peak of autumn color.
Gifford Woods Old Growth
Capture the primeval feel of massive, moss-covered trees in one of Vermont's rare un-logged forests.
Thundering Brook Falls
An easy, accessible boardwalk trail leads to a spectacular waterfall that is particularly impressive after a spring rain or during the fall thaw.
Warren & Waitsfield
American Flatbread
βThe original location at Lareau Farm. Pizzas are baked in a wood-fired clay oven and served in a beautiful barn setting.β
Waitsfield Covered Bridge
A classic Vermont shot of the historic wooden bridge over the Mad River.
Sugarbush Access Road
The drive up to the resort offers stunning views back across the valley, especially at sunset.
Warren Falls
A spectacular series of cascades and deep, emerald-green swimming holes that are a favorite with locals on hot summer days.
Waterbury & Stowe
Hen of the Wood
βLocated in an old grist mill in Waterbury, this is arguably Vermont's finest restaurant, focusing on hyper-local, seasonal ingredients.β
Stowe Community Church
The iconic white steeple framed by the Green Mountains is one of the most photographed spots in New England.
Mount Mansfield Chin
The highest point in Vermont offers a dramatic rocky foreground for sunset shots overlooking Lake Champlain.
Bingham Falls
A short, steep hike leads to a dramatic 40-foot waterfall and a deep gorge that feels like a hidden sanctuary.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Typically the first two weeks of October, but it varies by year and elevation. The northern sections turn first.
The road is well-maintained as it is a major corridor for ski resorts, but snow tires are highly recommended and 4WD is a plus.
There are plenty of gas stations in the villages, but they can be 20-30 miles apart in the quieter sections. Don't let your tank get too low.
You can drive the length of the state in about 5 hours, but you'll miss everything! We recommend at least 3 days to explore the stops.
Vermont is very dog-friendly. Many outdoor dining spots and many trails welcome leashed pets.