We're excited to embark on this 9-day journey through some of the most picturesque destinations in the Northeast. We'll be chasing the fall foliage through New Jersey, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, staying at unique hotels along the way. We'd love to meet up with any friends who happen to be in these areas during our trip!
Starting from our home in Califon, we'll make our way through charming towns, scenic mountain landscapes, and coastal communities during peak foliage season. Below you'll find our detailed itinerary with accommodation information, dining recommendations, and activities for each day.
Everyone arrives in Califon, NJ today! We'll gather at home to begin our New England fall foliage adventure. Time to check weather forecasts and prepare camera equipment for capturing the beautiful fall colors ahead.
Enjoying our last night at home before the road trip begins!
Driving Distance: 211 km (131 miles) | Driving Time: 2 hours 12 minutes
Our first destination is the artistic community of Woodstock, NY, known for its vibrant arts scene, eclectic shops, and gorgeous Catskill Mountain surroundings.
The eco-luxe hotel sits creekside near downtown Woodstock and offers treehouse-style accommodations.
Visit Hotel WebsiteFarm-to-table restaurant with an open kitchen and wood-fired grill.
Reservation: 7:15 p.m.
Visit Restaurant WebsiteDriving Distance: 308 km (191 miles) | Driving Time: 3 hours 7 minutes
We'll drive north to the Olympic village of Lake Placid in the Adirondack Mountains, taking a scenic route through the spectacular High Peaks region.
A Relais & Châteaux resort offering rustic luxury and arts-and-crafts–style lodging on Lake Placid.
Visit Hotel WebsiteThe wood-paneled pub at Lake Placid Lodge serves hearty yet elevated pub fare and local beers.
Reservation: 6:30 p.m.
View Dining OptionsDriving Distance: 150 km (93 miles) | Driving Time: 2 hours 28 minutes
We'll cross into Vermont to visit the picturesque town of Stowe, famous for its ski slopes and spectacular fall foliage. The drive takes us through the beautiful Green Mountains.
Austrian-inspired lodging on a 2,600-acre property with European-style rooms and stunning mountain views.
Visit Hotel WebsiteThe elegant dining room serves European-style cuisine and Vermont specialties; dinner reservations are encouraged.
Reservation: 6:45 p.m.
View Restaurant DetailsDriving Distance: 138 km (86 miles) | Driving Time: 1 hour 48 minutes
We'll journey east to the White Mountains of New Hampshire, taking the scenic route through Smugglers Notch and stopping at Zenbarn for a late lunch or early dinner.
A historic resort featuring Spanish Renaissance architecture, luxury accommodations and extensive indoor/outdoor recreation.
Visit Hotel WebsiteThis patio-level pub and steakhouse integrates fresh local products for lunch and dinner.
Reservation: 6:30 p.m.
View Restaurant DetailsDriving Distance: 159 km (99 miles) | Driving Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
We'll head to the coast of Maine to experience the charming seaside town of Kennebunkport, with its beautiful harbor and New England coastal charm.
A cozy hilltop retreat built as a tea merchant's mansion, steps from Dock Square.
Visit Hotel WebsiteScratch-style fish and chop house on the Kennebunk River, known for fresh ingredients and an award-winning wine list.
Reservation: 6:30 p.m.
Visit Restaurant WebsiteDriving Distance: 254 km (158 miles) | Driving Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
We'll head back inland to visit Woodstock, Vermont, often called one of America's prettiest small towns, especially beautiful in fall.
Six-room inn on the Ottauquechee River offering homemade breakfasts and Green Mountain views.
Visit Hotel WebsiteFarm-to-table restaurant serving breakfast and dinner with locally sourced ingredients; the Woodstock location offers breakfast 7:30–10:30 a.m. and dinner 5–9 p.m.
Reservation: 6 p.m.
Visit Restaurant WebsiteDriving Distance: 380 km (236 miles) | Driving Time: 4 hours
We'll head south to the historic spa town of Saratoga Springs, NY, enjoying the scenic drive through Vermont and upstate New York.
Boutique hotel on nearly ten acres of wetlands, blending charm, tradition and natural beauty.
Visit Hotel WebsiteFrench-inspired brasserie at Brookmere featuring premium cuts, farm-fresh vegetables and a curated wine list.
Reservation: 6:30 p.m.
View Restaurant DetailsDriving Distance: 306 km (190 miles) | Driving Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Our final day brings us home to Califon, NJ, completing our memorable New England fall foliage road trip.
Returning home after an unforgettable New England fall road trip adventure.
Follow our journey through New Jersey, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine with this interactive map. Click on any marker to see details about each stop.
Our trip map is loading. If it doesn't appear shortly, the Google Maps API key may need activation in Google Cloud Console.
Based on historical data and climate patterns, here's what to expect for fall colors during our trip:
This timing places us perfectly to catch the progression of fall colors from north to south!
Fall weather in New England can be highly variable. Pack layers, as temperatures can range from warm days (60s-70s°F) to cold nights (30s-40s°F), especially in mountain areas.
Always bring a waterproof jacket, as rain showers are common in autumn.
Morning light provides the richest fall colors - plan to be at scenic overlooks early.
Overcast days can actually enhance color saturation in photos, so don't be discouraged by cloudy weather.
Bring polarizing filters to reduce glare and enhance foliage colors.
Consider these officially designated scenic routes for the best views:
Don't miss these regional foods:
Mountain roads like Smugglers Notch can occasionally close due to early snow or ice - check conditions before travel.
Some scenic roads get very busy during peak foliage weekends. Start early to avoid crowds.
Our top recommendations for fall photography:
In case of inclement weather, here are some indoor activities for each destination:
Check the current forecast for each destination on our journey. Weather data is provided by OpenWeatherMap and is updated regularly.
Loading weather data...