Route 100 Vermont: A Complete 5-Day Itinerary From a Vermonter
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Ready to embark on a Vermont road trip you won’t soon forget? Scenic Route 100 in Vermont has been called “Vermont’s most beautiful road” many times over.
This incredible road trip can be completed in a single day, but what’s the fun in that?
At 216.7 miles, Vermont’s longest state highway is also one of the most scenic and well-loved, meandering through the Green Mountains and charming New England villages, with all the quintessential Vermont goodness you’ve been dreaming of.
I’ve driven Route 100 in every season for the past 45 years: first, in the backseat of my parents’ station wagon, then with my own kiddos, and now as an empty nester commuting for work. My favorite stretches change with the season, but the whole route is worth exploring!
Here’s a bite-sized snapshot of everything you need to know to plan your Vermont Route 100 road trip:
Table of Contents
Route 100 at a Glance
- Total length216.7 miles, Stamford (Massachusetts line) to Newport
- Official scenic byway146 miles, Waterbury and Stowe to West Dover
- Drive time, no stopsAbout 5 hours
- How long to spend5 days, but you can do it in 3 or stretch it to a week
- When to goMay to October
- Fly intoAlbany, then rent a car
- Speed limits25 mph in villages to 50 mph between towns
- Dog-friendly?Yes, especially in the summer when you can take advantage of dog-friendly restaurant patios
- Cell serviceNotoriously spotty in the mountains
Top 3 highlights: Vermont Country Store, President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site, Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road
Last checked by Tara: October 2026
Where Does Route 100 Start and End?
Vermont Route 100 runs straight through the center of the state, from south to north. Its southern end is at the Massachusetts state line in Stamford, where it continues south as Massachusetts Route 8. Its northern end is in Newport, on Lake Memphremagog, just a few miles from the Canadian border.
This itinerary starts in Wilmington, which skips the quiet southernmost stretch through Stamford, Readsboro, and Whitingham. While Route 100 south of Wilmington is lovely, I chose to start in Wilmington to make it easier for travelers coming from Albany Airport and the towns of Bennington and Brattleboro.
Is the Scenic Route 100 Byway the Same as Route 100?
Not quite. The Scenic Route 100 Byway is one of Vermont’s ten federally designated scenic byways, covering 146 miles of the highway from Waterbury and Stowe south to West Dover. It’s nicknamed “Vermont’s Main Street” and “The Skier’s Highway.” The highway continues on both ends: south to the Massachusetts line and north through the Northeast Kingdom to Newport. This itinerary covers both the byway and the wild northern stretch beyond it.
If you have limited time to explore, you can easily skip the part north of Stowe and south of West Dover. I’d also suggest skipping the official byway during the first two weekends in October. You don’t want to spend your whole vacation sitting in traffic!
Get our free digital guide to Route 100 with a complete 5-day itinerary!
Route 100 Vermont Map
Here are all the stops mentioned in this Vermont Route 100 itinerary. Tap the icon in the upper-right corner to enlarge the map and explore.
Route 100 Itineraries: 1 Day, 3 Days, or 5 Days
If you have five days to spend in the Green Mountains, we have the perfect road trip itinerary for you on Vermont Route 100. Short on time? Here’s how I’d trim it.
Pick Your Route 100 Trip
One day
In summer, I would start in the Mad River Valley around Hancock, check out Moss Glen Falls and Warren Falls, grab a creemee (or sushi) at the Warren Store, walk the Stowe Recreation Path, and have dinner in Stowe (I like Doc Ponds). In the fall, I would drive Mount Snow north to Killington, stopping at Jamaica State Park, Honeypie, and the Vermont Country Store.
Three days, two nights
I would spend night #1 in Wilmington and then drive up to the Mad River Valley (Waitsfield) for night #2. To save time, I would skip the northern part of Route 100 (north of Stowe). If you want to drive a bit farther north for the first night, try Ludlow.
Five days, south to north
The full itinerary below: Wilmington, Ludlow, the Mad River Valley, Stowe, and Newport. Jump to Day 1.
Fall foliage trip, north to south
Reverse direction and travel from north to south so you get closer to peak colors. It’s different every year, but it definitely peaks earlier in the north and later in the south. Try to arrange your trip so that you’re exploring Stowe on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
Did you know that we have a sister site all about travel in Vermont? Check out Vermont Explored to start planning your next Green Mountains adventure. From road trips and hiking guides to festivals and small-town itineraries, Vermont Explored is covering it all!
A 5-Day Vermont Route 100 Road Trip Itinerary
We’ll start our journey in Southern Vermont, in the little town of Wilmington, and head north on Vermont Route 100 to Newport, just south of the Canadian border.
This is a five-day road trip that is best completed in the summer or fall. In the summer, you can take advantage of lots of swimming and camping. In the fall, you can explore small villages, charming inns, and of course, that incredible Vermont fall foliage.
Explore all that this beautiful mountain road has to offer, from pristine lakes and secret swimming holes to magnificent vistas and quiet campgrounds. The Green Mountains are a little slice of heaven for outdoor lovers of every persuasion.
The Stops at a Glance
| Stop | Why go | Time to spend | Dogs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1: Wilmington | |||
| Lake Whitingham | Swimming, paddling, and free beaches on the largest man-made lake entirely in Vermont | 2 hours+ | Yes, everywhere on the lake |
| Wilmington village | Walkable Main Street, Bartleby’s Books, and breakfast at Dot’s or the Village Roost | Afternoon and night 1 | Yes, on the Village Roost patio |
| Mt. Olga, Molly Stark State Park | 1.7-mile loop to a fire tower with big views, best at sunrise | 1.5 hours | Yes, on-leash |
| Day 2: Wilmington to Ludlow · 53 miles | |||
| Mount Snow | Ride the Bluebird Express for views of Somerset Reservoir | 1 to 2 hours | Not on the Bluebird Express |
| Jamaica State Park | Swim at Salmon Hole and walk the West River rail trail | 2 hours | Yes |
| Honeypie | Veggie burgers, burgers, and famous milkshakes on Route 30 | Lunch | Yes, at the outdoor tables |
| Vermont Country Store, Weston | Penny candy, maple syrup, and a year-round Christmas shop | 1 hour | Yes |
| Ludlow | Buttermilk Falls swimming hole and the Okemo fire tower | Afternoon and night 2 | Yes, at Buttermilk Falls |
| Day 3: Ludlow to Waitsfield · 70 miles | |||
| Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site | President Coolidge’s boyhood village, nearly unchanged since the early 1900s | 1.5 to 2 hours | Yes, on the grounds |
| Long Trail Brewing | Riverside pub lunch in Bridgewater Corners | Lunch | Yes, on the patio |
| Moss Glen Falls, Granville | Roadside waterfall right off Route 100 | 15 minutes | Yes |
| Warren Falls | Swimming hole for a hot-day dip (go early) | 1 hour | Yes |
| Mad River Valley | American Flatbread at Lareau Farm and the village of Warren | Evening and night 3 | Yes, outdoor seating only |
| Day 4: Waitsfield to Stowe · 24 miles | |||
| Ben & Jerry’s Factory | Factory tour and the Flavor Graveyard (book tickets ahead) | 1 hour | Not inside |
| Waterbury Center State Park | Paddle the Waterbury Reservoir with Umiak rentals | 2 hours | Yes, on-leash |
| Cold Hollow Cider Mill | Cider donuts and a gallon of cider for the cooler | 30 minutes | Not inside |
| Mt. Mansfield | Auto toll road to the summit ridge, then hike to the Chin | Half day | Yes, on-leash on the ridge |
| Smugglers’ Notch and Bingham Falls | Boulders, caves, and a short, steep waterfall hike (no RVs) | 2 hours | Yes, on-leash |
| Stowe village | Heady Topper at the Alchemist and dinner at Doc Ponds | Evening and night 4 | Yes, on the lawn at the Alchemist |
| Day 5: Stowe to Newport · 48 miles | |||
| The Northeast Kingdom | Wild stretch through Eden, Lowell, Westfield, and Troy; watch for moose | The drive | n/a |
| Newport waterfront | Lake Memphremagog views and the bike path to the Canadian border | 2 hours+ | Yes, downtown |
| Prouty Beach | Swimming beach and campground next to the bike path | 1 hour+ | Yes |
Day 1: Wilmington, Vermont
Today, you’re exploring the beautiful village of Wilmington. Relax by the lake, spend some time downtown, and eat at one of our favorite Vermont restaurants.
Driving time: Depends on where you’re coming from.
It’s no secret that Wilmington is one of my favorite Vermont towns, perhaps because the lakes and mountains are so accessible here.
Just south of the village is the beautiful Lake Whitingham, also known as Harriman Reservoir. Covering more than 2,000 acres, Lake Whitingham is one of southern Vermont’s largest (and most beautiful) lakes.
Lake Whitingham is the perfect place for swimming, sailing, paddling, and fishing, and yes, you’ll see a good number of cruisers, speedboats, and jet skis too. The beaches and picnic areas that surround the lake are free to use, and there’s even a clothing-optional zone just a short walk from the picnic area at Wards Cove.
If you’re visiting in the fall, don’t miss a trip to the lake! The foliage is gorgeous, especially if you can capture it early in the morning when the lake is still.
The town itself is small, with only 2,000 full-time residents. You’ll find a lovely, walkable Main Street, cute stores, and plenty of restaurants. We love browsing Bartleby’s Books, the 1836 Country Store, and Red Fox Shop.
Where to Eat: Locals love Dot’s Diner for a big, traditional breakfast, and we’d recommend Alpenglow Bistro for your special date night. As a vegetarian, I love the Village Roost for both breakfast and lunch; they have so many delicious veggie options, and they’re not just an afterthought!
After setting up camp or before heading out in the morning, be sure to hike to the top of Mt. Olga (a 1.7-mile loop) for gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains. Sunrise from the fire tower is the best!
With dogs: Dogs are allowed on the patio at the Village Roost, everywhere on Lake Whitingham, and at Molly Stark State Park.
Where to Stay in Wilmington
Historic inn
Wilmington Inn
Right on Main Street and very close to the Valley Trail, for a short hike before setting out in the morning.
- Full Vermont breakfast included
- Dogs: No
Camping
Molly Stark State Park
A quiet, wooded campground with private sites and hot showers, a few miles east of town.
- Hike Mt. Olga from camp (1.7-mile loop)
- Dogs: Yes, on-leash
Vacation rental
Green Mountain Roost
10 private acres on a dead-end road with a fire pit.
- Sleeps 6
- 2 upstairs bedrooms with queen beds and a full-size bed in the living room
- Dogs: Yes
Also Read: The Complete Guide to Exploring Wilmington, Vermont
Day 2: Wilmington to Ludlow
This section of Vermont Route 100 heads through the southern section of the Green Mountain National Forest. You’ll be stopping in several small towns, swimming in the West River, and taking in the views from the top of Mount Snow.
Driving distance: 53 miles
Mount Snow: Four Seasons of Recreation Opportunities
As you head out of Wilmington on Route 100, you’ll quickly enter the town of West Dover, home of Mount Snow.
This is a very popular ski resort, but it’s open year-round. In the summer and fall, you can enjoy lift-serviced mountain biking, or simply ride the Bluebird Express to the top of the mountain for fantastic views of the Somerset Reservoir and the surrounding Green Mountains.
The Bluebird Express is a six-passenger bubble chairlift that runs on the weekends from 10 am to 5 pm between June and mid-October.
Jamaica State Park: Swim in the West River
Continue north on Route 100 until you enter the tiny town of East Jamaica, where you will turn left to stay on Route 100 (also Route 30) and head toward the village of Jamaica. While there isn’t much to the town, Jamaica State Park is a gem of a spot in both summer and fall.
The park features a rail trail, camping, and a playground, but the highlight is swimming at Salmon Hole in the West River.
This is the site of the “Salmon Hole Massacre,” where a group of Frenchmen and Native Americans ambushed a colonial scouting party from Fort Dummer led by Captain Eleazer Melvin in 1748.
An archaeological dig in 2010 revealed a large campsite on the banks of Salmon Hole. Archaeologists unearthed stone tools, spear points, and evidence that people used the site as a seasonal fishing camp at least 7,000 years ago.
Here are our favorite things to do at Jamaica State Park!
By now, your tummy must be growling. For awesome burgers, sandwiches, and milkshakes, head to Honeypie on Route 30 in Jamaica. This is a quick diner-type stop, but so good! I had a veggie burger, fries, and one of their famous milkshakes. 10/10!
Weston, VT: Visit the Vermont Country Store
Weston is another one of those picturesque New England villages, complete with a little town green, several unique stores, and the famous Weston Playhouse. Shopping in Weston is like taking a step back in time, so that’s what’s on the agenda.
Located across from the village green on Main Street, the Vermont Country Store is a nostalgic gem that you won’t want to miss. The aisles are stocked to the rafters with penny candy, maple syrup, apothecary items, household goods, and lots of local goodies. The store opened in 1946 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the first fully restored country store in the United States.
Browse the crowded aisles to discover the largest collection of weathervanes in Vermont, the Vermont Scale Museum, and a year-round Christmas shop.
And speaking of Christmas, no matter what time of year you visit the Vermont Country Store, it’s always a good time to grab some one-of-a-kind Vermont gifts for your friends and family back home.
Ludlow, VT: Settle in at Main + Mountain
Next, head to Ludlow, Vermont, in Okemo Valley, home to Okemo Mountain Resort.
Ludlow is a small community, but you will find a few unique shopping and dining opportunities, as well as several trails and swimming holes. Buttermilk Falls is a popular swimming spot at the base of a lovely waterfall. Don’t miss it on a hot summer day!
After cooling off at the falls, drive to the top of Okemo Mountain and climb the fire tower for spectacular views of the Green Mountains.
Where to eat: For really unique dining, check out Homestyle Restaurant. The small neighborhood restaurant serves up an eclectic mix of local dishes, all created fresh daily and lovingly prepared.
With dogs: Jamaica State Park, Buttermilk Falls, the Vermont Country Store, and the outdoor seating at Honeypie are all dog-friendly! Dogs are not allowed on the Bluebird Express at Mount Snow.
Where to Stay in Ludlow
Boutique motel
Main + Mountain
Homestyle’s sister property, with 13 modern rooms in the walkable downtown area.
- Lobby bar with craft cocktails
- No pets
Dog-friendly
Pointe at Castle Hill Resort
A lodge-style hotel with an indoor pool and onsite dining.
- Pet-friendly rooms are available
Camping
Camp Plymouth State Park
Rent one of four cottages at Camp Plymouth.
- Swimming beach
- Kayak and canoe rentals
- Leashed dogs welcome in grassy areas
Day 3: Ludlow to Waitsfield
This section of Route 100 in Vermont is characterized by very small towns, mountainous terrain, and acres of farmland. For much of the drive, you will follow the eastern slope of the Green Mountains along the border of the Green Mountain National Forest. There are too many fun stops to mention, so I will focus on my favorites.
Driving distance: 70 miles
Plymouth Notch, VT: Visit the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site
About 11 miles north of Ludlow, turn right on Route 100A and drive a mile to President Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site. Plymouth Notch is the birthplace and boyhood home of our 30th president, and his homestead and the surrounding village are virtually unchanged since the early 20th century.
The village, known as the Plymouth Notch Historic District, is a National Historic Landmark. Wander through the site’s roughly 200 acres, visit the Calvin Coolidge Museum and Education Center, and explore dozens of historically preserved buildings.
Long Trail Brewing Company in Bridgewater Corners
After leaving Plymouth, continue north on 100A to Bridgewater Corners, where you’ll find the famous Long Trail Brewing Company.
This quaint riverside pub and restaurant is the perfect lunch spot, and the view is great, too! Beyond their popular Long Trail Ale, they brew a variety of delicious seasonal craft beers you won’t find in stores. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor beer tent.
Moss Glen Falls, Granville, Vermont
Moss Glen Falls in Granville is one of Vermont’s most beautiful waterfalls. This picturesque waterfall is more of a roadside attraction than anything else, but it’s definitely worth a visit.
Because Moss Glen Falls is right off Vermont Route 100, you can check it out in just a few minutes. Bring your camera!
There’s no swimming at Moss Glen Falls, so if you pass through on a hot summer day, keep going north to Warren Falls for a quick dip. Warren Falls can be extremely busy in the summer, but it’s a great spot to cool off. I recommend going early in the day and skipping it entirely if the parking lot is full.
Dining and Lodging in the Mad River Valley
Where to stay: After a long day of driving, swimming, and adventuring, settle in for the night in the village of Warren. For unique, high-end lodging, check out The Pitcher Inn.
Where to eat: Visit the original home of American Flatbread Pizza at Lareau Farm in Waitsfield. It’s undoubtedly the best wood-fired pizza in Vermont.
With dogs: Dogs are allowed on the patio at Long Trail Brewing, on the grounds at the Calvin Coolidge Homestead, and at both Moss Glen Falls and Warren Falls.
Where to Stay in the Mad River Valley
Splurge
The Pitcher Inn
A unique, high-end lodging opportunity in Warren village. It’s a splurge, but well worth it!
- Whimsical themed rooms
- Two restaurants: 275 Main and Tracks
- Dogs: Allowed in two suites and the Edgewater House, but not inside the main inn.
Farm stay
The Inn at Lareau Farm
A historic farmhouse inn on a working farm with pigs and chickens.
- Walk to American Flatbread for dinner.
- Dogs: Allowed in four of the rooms.
Camping
Little River State Park
Located in nearby Waterbury on the Waterbury Reservoir.
- Choose from lean-tos or standard tent/RV sites (no hookups)
- Kayak and canoe rentals available
- Open between mid-Mayand the third weekend in October
Day 4: Waitsfield to Stowe
You won’t be driving much today because this section of Vermont Route 100 is packed with things to do! The Waterbury/Stowe area is fabulous in all four seasons, and if you’re short on time, I urge you to spend an extra day here. However, I would actually avoid this area entirely on weekends during the first two weeks of October.
Driving distance: 24 miles
Waterbury, VT: Home of Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream
Waterbury is about 14 miles north of Waitsfield. It is home to Ben & Jerry’s Factory, which offers guided tours. Tickets go on sale two weeks in advance and sell out during busy times, so book online before you go. Learn how Vermont’s famous ice cream is made, and stop at the flavor graveyard to pay your respects to the “dearly de-pinted.”
After your tour and tasting, head to Waterbury Center State Park, located just off Route 100 and one of our favorite spots for paddling, fishing, picnicking, and remote camping.
The park sits on a 90-acre peninsula on the shores of the Waterbury Reservoir, and Umiak Outdoor Outfitters offers onsite canoe and kayak rentals.
Front-country camping is available at Waterbury Reservoir in Little River State Park, which is our top state park for kids in the whole state.
Just a half-mile from Waterbury Center State Park is Cold Hollow Cider Mill. It’s one of Vermont’s top tourist attractions, and it also has delicious cider donuts. Pop in for lunch or some fresh-baked goods, and don’t forget a gallon of cider for your cooler!
Stowe, VT: Home to Vermont’s Highest Peak
A Route 100 Vermont road trip wouldn’t be complete without spending a full day in Vermont’s most adorable mountain village. Stowe is known as a ski town, but it’s equally lovely in summer and fall, with shops, restaurants, and coffee shops to explore.
At 4,395 feet, Mt. Mansfield in Stowe is Vermont’s highest mountain. On a clear day, you can see west to Lake Champlain, north to Canada, and east to New Hampshire. Several trails lead to the top, but if you don’t have time for an all-day hike, consider the auto toll road at Stowe Mountain Resort.
The toll road takes you right to the top of Mt. Mansfield, locally called “the nose.” From the nose, you can hike along the ridge to the chin (2.8 miles round trip), Vermont’s official highest point.
The top of Mt. Mansfield is one of two areas in the state where you can find an alpine tundra ecosystem. This is a very fragile area, and hikers are asked to stay on marked trails and to keep dogs leashed at all times.
After your hike, stop at the Alchemist Brewery and Visitor Center to try out New England’s most famous beer, Heady Topper. The brewery and visitor center are located on Cottage Club Road in the village of Stowe.
If you have time, consider a side trip through Smugglers’ Notch on Route 108. This is a narrow pass between Mt. Mansfield and Spruce Peak, but unsuitable for RVs. Huge boulders and dark caves flank the roadside, perfect for scrambling. The road through the Notch closes to cars in winter.
There are several trails along the roadside, including a short but steep hike to Bingham Falls. The trail descends about a quarter-mile to the top of the falls and another steep quarter-mile to the bottom, and it brings you to one of the state’s loveliest waterfalls.
Where to Eat: Doc Ponds has a limited menu, but the food is fresh, and the beer menu is extensive. Have a root beer float for dessert, and you’ll be golden till morning.
With dogs: Dogs can hike Mount Mansfield’s ridge and enjoy the lawn at the Alchemist, but they aren’t permitted inside at Ben & Jerry’s or Cold Hollow Cider.
Where to Stay in Stowe
Walk to the village
The Stowe Village Inn
Located along the Little River in Stowe Village.
- Combination historic inn and modern motel
- Short walk to the village and the recreation path
- Dogs: No
Mountain views
von Trapp Family Lodge
A mountain resort on 2,600 acres on the Mountain Road in Stowe.
- Four restaurants
- Hiking/ski trails
- Fitness center
- Dogs: Yes
Camping
Smugglers’ Notch State Park
Traditional campground near Smugglers’ Notch with access to hiking trails.
- Tent/RV sites and lean-tos with no hookups
- Dog-friendly
- Open mid-May Fthrough the second Monday in October
Read Next: 18 Delightful Things to Do in Stowe, Vermont
Day 5: Stowe to Newport
The last leg of your road trip on Vermont Route 100 is characterized by a wild stretch of road. The farther north you go, the better your chances of seeing one of North America’s largest mammals, the massive moose. Watch for these gentle giants, especially along the roadside, where they can pose a threat to unsuspecting motorists.
Driving Distance: 48 miles
Newport, VT: Where Vermont Meets Canada
As you head out of Stowe and into Hyde Park, take in the spectacular views of Mt. Mansfield behind you. Once you cross into Orleans County near Lowell, you have entered the famous Northeast Kingdom, known for its wild and rugged beauty.
Heading north, you’ll pass through several small towns, including Eden, Lowell, Westfield, and Troy, before heading into the relative metropolis of Newport.
On the shores of Lake Memphremagog, Newport is bustling these days. Main Street is lined with restaurants, boutiques, and galleries. Several waterfront overlooks feature majestic views of the massive glacial lake, which covers about 42 square miles, most of it in Quebec.
The Newport Bike Path starts downtown and connects to the Beebe Spur Rail Trail, which runs along the lake shore for about four miles to the Canadian border. The trail no longer ends at the border crossing, so if you want to ride into Canada, follow the signs about 1.5 miles east to the crossing on Beebe Road, and bring your passport.
Where to Eat: For casual waterfront dining, check out the Eastside Restaurant & Pub. For the best Thai and sushi in the Northeast Kingdom, try Dusit Thai Cuisine. The owners relocated from Thailand in 2014 and have been wowing locals and visitors with their delicacies ever since.
With dogs: Explore downtown Newport and Prouty Beach with your dog.
Where to Stay in Newport
Lake house
Four-bedroom home on Lake Memphremagog
Want to end your Route 100 trip with a lakeside vacation? This beautiful home sleeps 10!
- VRBO rental
- Dogs: No
No-frills
Newport City Inn & Suites
Comfy beds and a heated indoor pool.
- Affordable rooms
- Indoor pool
- Dogs: No
Camping
Prouty Beach & Campground
Large sites for tents and RVs, a swimming beach, and a playground, less than a mile from downtown.
- City park, right next to the bike path
- Sites: 75 with hookup
- Bike/boat rentals
Good to Know Before You Go
Speed: The speed limit on Route 100 varies wildly, from 25 mph in town centers to 50 mph between towns, so no matter when you plan to drive it, take your time!
Gas and groceries: You’re never far from a village or town, so you’ll have easy access to gas stations, grocery stores, hotels, and campgrounds.
Cell service: There are plenty of dead zones, so be sure to download offline maps and order a DeLorme Atlas & Gazetteer: New Hampshire, Vermont
Moose and Deer: Watch for moose north of Stowe and deer all over, especially at dawn and dusk.
RVs and trailers: Skip Route 108 through Smugglers’ Notch. It’s narrow and unsuitable for RVs.
Reservations: Book Ben & Jerry’s tours online, and book lodging as early as possible for foliage season. For Vermont State Parks, you can reserve a campsite 11 months in advance.
What to Pack for Your Vermont Route 100 Road Trip
Not sure what to pack for your Route 100 road trip? Keep it casual!
You’ll be doing a lot of outdoor adventuring, and even the in-town activities (shopping, museums, and restaurants) don’t require fancy duds. One thing you won’t find on Route 100 is nightlife, so leave the fancy dress and heels behind. Here are some more packing must-haves to help you make the most of your trip.
- ActivewearYou’ll be spending some time outdoors, and you want to be comfy. Opt for sturdy non-cotton pants (like these) and a breathable, moisture-wicking shirt. I love Merino wool shirts because they keep you cool when it’s hot out and warm when it’s cold, don’t stink like polyester blends, and they dry quickly.
- Sturdy shoesAgain, you want your feet to take you wherever you need to go. In summer, sandals that can double as water shoes are fantastic, plus a pair of rugged hikers.
- SwimwearThe swimming holes in Vermont are cold and clear. If you do this road trip in the summer, be prepared with a bathing suit and a towel. We use these quick-dry towels when traveling because the heavy cotton ones take too long to dry.
- JacketsThe weather in Vermont is fickle, especially in the mountains. In the summer, you will be fine with a fleece and a rain jacket. For fall travel, add a down puffy jacket and a wool hat. These down jackets pack down really small and are perfect for travel.
- A real mapCell service is notoriously spotty in some areas of Vermont. We love the DeLorme Atlas for Vermont and New Hampshire to keep us found. We’ve been using it for years!
- Offline trail maps I always use AllTrails to research trails before a trip. With AllTrails Plus (the upgrade), you can download maps for offline use and follow your trail even without cell service. Use our referral link for 30% off a subscription ($25.19 instead of $35.99).
- For the dog I love this portable bed from Ruffwear when we travel.
Vermont Route 100 Road Trip FAQs
We get a lot of questions about traveling through Vermont, so we just wanted to take some time to answer the most common ones. If you have any other questions about road-tripping through Vermont or about traveling on Route 100, simply leave a comment, and we’ll answer ASAP.
How long does it take to drive Route 100 in Vermont?
You can complete this incredible road trip in a single day: about five hours of driving without stops. But I recommend five days, so you have time to swim, hike, and linger in the villages. If you only have a weekend, see the three-day version above.
Should we drive Route 100 in Vermont from south to north or north to south?
In the summer, we recommend driving this route from south to north. Why? Because the southern end of Route 100 is closer to major metropolitan areas and airports. The beginning of this road trip is 60 miles from Albany International Airport in New York, 126 miles from Logan International Airport in Boston, and 205 miles from JFK in New York City.
After you complete the 195-mile drive on Route 100 from Wilmington to Newport, you can hop onto Interstate 91 and head south again.
If you’re doing Route 100 as a fall road trip, timing is everything. The colors change in the higher elevations and northern regions first, so it might make more sense to travel north to south and follow the foliage as you go.
How do I get to Route 100 from Hartford or Montreal?
From Hartford, it depends on how much time you have. If you are short on time, I would head up 91 and cut over to Route 100 in White River Junction so you can go through Quechee and Woodstock before heading north on 100 near Killington. If you have a little more time, get off 91 in Rockingham and go to the Vermont Country Store and get on Route 100 via Route 103 in Chester.
From Montreal, it’s an easy trip to Burlington, less than 2 hours. The border crossing is in Highgate, Vermont, and you take Interstate 89 down to Burlington. From Burlington, take I-89 to Waterbury and travel north or south on Route 100.
When is the best time to see fall foliage on Route 100 in Vermont?
You will see fall colors on Route 100 from late September through most of October. October is the busiest month for tourists in Vermont, who come from all over to see the leaves change.
The foliage changes from year to year, so it’s impossible to predict with 100% accuracy, but I’ve been exploring Vermont in the fall for a long time, and if I had to choose, I would start in Newport around October 4 (give or take a few days) and finish in southern Vermont on October 9 (give or take a few days).
Will we have access to amenities on Route 100?
Yes! One of the most beautiful things about a Vermont Route 100 road trip is that you travel through the Green Mountain National Forest and the mountains, but you’re never very far from a village or town, which means you’ll have easy access to gas stations, grocery stores, hotels, and campgrounds.
Is Route 100 dog-friendly?
Yes, there are lots of dog-friendly stops on this route, and I’ve tried to include dog-friendly restaurants and lodging options as well.
Where to Next?
After traveling through the mountains on Route 100 from south to north, you can easily hop on Interstate 91 in Newport, which will whisk you away to points south.
If you’re up for further adventures, you can head north into Canada (Montreal is two hours away), and the Eastern Townships are right over the border, southwest into Burlington and the Champlain Valley, or south on the Connecticut River Byway.
Don’t forget to download our free printable 5-day itinerary for this Route 100 road trip!
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Hello, could you possibly reverse this itinerary for my husband and I? We are going to start in Stowe and drive South because we have to be in Washington DC that same week.
My wife and I did the rte.100 trip in fall 2022 – flew into Albany, then headed to Dorset (mainly so I could fish the Battenkill-been on my bucket list since I learned to fly fish – age 12). I was born/raised in New England – Maine/Mass/Conn – dad was a Congregational minister, and we now live in Alabama. I get your blog and I also received Yankee magazine to keep me “connected”. We had a wonderful time visiting the small towns and villages along the way. For me, the highlights of the trip were the Battenkill (of course), Plymouth Notch, Calvin Coolidge’s home. Once you see the view from the top of that ridge, you understand why he visited there so often – spectacular in the first week of October. We stayed at a small home adjacent to farm land, down in a hollow, and as we pulled into the driveway, 14 wild female turkeys walked past the front of the car – took my breath away. We finished rte. 100 in Newport at the Canadian border. 9 days in God’s country was a wonderful journey.
Clayton and Carol Richard
Vestavia Hills, Alabama
@Clayton Richard,
Would you mind providing the specific name of your accommodation down in a hollow? thx
So glad I found this site! I will be driving to Stowe from Hartford CT airport in the last week of September. What route would you recommend from theCT airport to route 100? Thanks
Hi Ash,
It depends on how much time you have. If you are short on time, I would head up 91 and cut over to Route 100 in White River Junction so you can go through Quechee and Woodstock before heading north on 100 near Killington. If you have a little more time, get off 91 in Rockingham and go to the Vermont Country Store and get on Route 100 in Chester.
We are planning our trip and staying in Andover. The dates that work best for us are October 18th-25th. We planned to follow the route the Route 100 Itinerary that is outlined on this page. Any concerns or suggestions as to us being able to see colors during this timeframe?
Historically the colors peak earlier than the dates you’ve mentioned, but last year was an exception, with bright foliage into the third week of October. It’s been a bit of a gamble lately! If you have wiggle room, I would plan your trip a week earlier than this.
Just FYI, taking this trip next week, was hoping to ride that bluebird express gondola, but found it ends Oct 9, and is only available Fri-Sun during summer, not midweek, you might want to mention that. I did find that Killington resort has gondola rides midweek while we’re there, but you must book online. J
Hi!!!
Thank you for this article! We are planning to visit Vermont in October and we will be doing a road trip from Toronto! We are also going to bring our dog, may I know if these places are pet-friendly?
Thank you!
Hi Lindsey –
We travel with our dogs all the time and overall, Vermont is very pet-friendly. I can’t speak to each hotel or lodging opportunity on this list, but it’s easy enough to look that up on the hotel website. When I update this article, I will be sure to add whether or not dogs are allowed in the various spots.
Traveling to Vermont end of September and staying a week. I read somewhere you should start north to have a better chance of changing of the leaves and end south. Not sure if this is true. I keep reading about route 100 being beautiful. Need a route suggestion with starting and ending point. I could also use suggestions on what areas I should look for lodging as we travel. Will have my 83 year old mother and a friend with me.
Hi Cyndie-
Thanks for your comment. Fall foliage is just beginning at the end of September, so you can pretty much stay up north and in the mountains if your goal is to see the leaves. Stowe has lots of hotels, inns, and bed and breakfasts, and while it will be busy that time of year, it makes a great home base for your explorations. I am also the editor of Vermont Explored, a website dedicated to travel in Vermont. Here’s the link: https://vermontexplored.com
Traveling to NH and VT in October. We will drive from Stowe to Wilmington. We have 3 nights. Planning to stay in Stowe 1 night. What are good stops near route 100 for the other 2 nights. We were thinking Woodstock and Wilmington. Thanks for your input!
I love Wilmington! Woodstock is very pretty as well, but farther from Route 100. You should also check out Ludlow!
I am traveling to Vermont in September and want to drive route 100 from south to north starting in Wilmington. We will only have 3 days, 2 nights before we head to Montreal for three days/ nights, and we will drive back to Burlington for the last night to fly out the following day. I would like to know which 2 towns we should actually stay in on our way to Montreal. The first night will be in Wilmington. Could you give me a good itinerary for 3 days, instead of 5 days? Thank you!
Hi Kelly,
I would spend night #1 in Wilmington and then drive up to the Mad River Valley (Waitsfield) for night #2. To save time, I would skip the northern part of Route 100 (north of Stowe). If you want to drive a bit farther north for the first night, try Ludlow.
My partner and I plan to visit Vermont in early to mid October. We will start from Montreal. Which is the easiest start and route to go
Hi Loretta,
I think it depends on which part of Vermont you are visiting, but it’s an easy trip from Montreal to Burlington, less than 2 hours. You could make Burlington your home base and explore from there. The border crossing is in Highgate Vermont and you take Interstate 89 down to Burlington.
Which of the following dates would be ideal for foliage: September 21-26 or October 11-17?
Hi Vickie –
I think you should go with the October dates, but you may also want to reverse direction and travel from north to south so you get closer to peak colors. It’s different every year, but it definitely peaks earlier in the north and later in the south. Enjoy!
My husband and I bought several acres in the mountains near Jay, 4 years ago. I would like to make some recommendations, since Newport became our instant home for a while. The Newport Inn and suites looks like a run down roadside motel but they built a newer annex behind the hotel. The annex was designed by a local architect who recently passed away. The rooms in the annex are big and spacious. Also, the pool at the Newport Inn and suites is heated and so nice after a cold day . If you’re not staying at the hotel you can pay to use the pool and hot tub and it’s super clean. If you’re there in the Summertime make sure you have some ice cream at Tim and Doug’s, You can take a walk through the Pick and Shovel…which is the area’s hardware store/laundromat… then take a walk down by the water, just head North past the big salmon statue. Hoagies has the best pizza in town and right next door is the local Vista grocery store and it has the best rotisserie chickens I’ve ever had. I can also recommend lavender essential farm For an experience you can not find anywhere else. You can find them on Facebook and The Derby Cow palace. They actually have reindeer there… I’m serious they have reindeer and you are at the 45th latitude, which means you are halfway between the equator and the North Pole. There are signs posted around the area. Also if you go up to Derby which you really shouldn’t miss you can stand in the library where you are halfway in the United States and halfway in Canada it’s a pretty cool experience plus cool experience plus unlike the wall they guard Mexico there’s a couple flower pots that guard the border into Canada.. Don’t cross on it’s an honor system but there are people watching. The Derby Village Inn is beautiful and has really good German food. Now head the other way towards Jay Peak and Make sure you check out Coutours, in Westfield It’s a bed and breakfast but they also have the best Maple products, Try the cotton candy and Maple sugar. They give samples of the different grades of Maple syrup. The owners and Dave are absolutely delightful. Make sure you stop at the Westfield general store, really encompasses the feel of real Vermont. Behind the Westfield general store, there’s a road called Ball Ground road… if you walk up before it turns there’s a huge waterfall that you can see from the road. Most locals don’t even know about this because they go to the swimming pool up by Big Falls towards Troy. There are 2 really good restaurants in the area the Junction and Boutins. The Junction is your typical diner but the quality of the food is out of this world especially if Jane is cooking and Amber’s waiting on you. Boutin’s is more of a take out place and your last stop before you get to Canada. I absolutely love this area.. Take some of the backroads for example Ball Ground road and but it is a beautiful drive. It crosses the long trail. Just be quiet because the locals don’t like A lot of traffic. Get out and take a walk but be careful bears. It is a class 4 road and you should have 4 wheel drive. I can go on and on I think I’ll stop there.
Thanks for sharing your insider tips, Melissa! I am originally from Newport. I can’t wait to mee the reindeer next time I’m in town. So many awesome things to check out!