The Northeast Kingdom in Fall Is Worth the Drive
Vermont is well known for fall foliage, but not all of Vermont turns the same shade of spectacular at the same time. The Northeast Kingdom, in the northern corner of the state, tends to see color earlier in the season than the more visited areas to the south, and the terrain around North Troy offers some of the most rewarding fall foliage hiking in the region.
If you are planning a fall hiking trip in the Northeast Kingdom and want a comfortable, convenient place to stay, Journey’s Salon & Guest House at 316 N Pleasant St, North Troy, VT 05859 has both indoor rooms and large, grassy campsites on the property. It is the kind of base camp that makes a fall hiking trip in northern Vermont actually work.
Why Fall Is the Best Time to Hike in the Northeast Kingdom
Hiking in Vermont during fall foliage season offers conditions that summer simply cannot match. The heat is gone, the humidity drops, and the bugs that make July and August less enjoyable on the trail are done for the year. What you are left with is cool, crisp air, dry footing, and views from elevated trails that are genuinely stunning.
In the Northeast Kingdom, peak foliage typically runs from late September through mid-October, with higher elevations near Jay Peak seeing color first. Timing a hiking trip around this window means catching the trails at their most scenic, and the North Troy area gives you access to terrain that ranges from accessible valley routes to more demanding ridgeline hikes.
Hiking Routes Near North Troy VT for Foliage Season
The Long Trail’s northern terminus is a short drive from Journey’s, making it an excellent option for hikers who want to walk a section of the trail during foliage season. The elevated terrain near Jay Peak offers panoramic views of the surrounding Kingdom, and fall color from that vantage point is as good as it gets in Vermont.
Closer to town, the valley trails, forest roads, and routes along the Missisquoi River offer easier options that are well suited for families, older hikers, and anyone who wants to take in the foliage at a gentler pace. These routes are also excellent for dogs, and Journey’s welcomes well-behaved pets for both room and campsite stays.
Rooms and Campsites for Fall Foliage Hikers
Journey’s Salon & Guest House offers two accommodation types that work well for fall hiking trips. The three indoor guest rooms (the Bob Room, the Pixie Room, and the Beehive Room) provide a warm, comfortable place to land after a long day on the trail. Each room has a queen bed and a sitting area, with shared access to the kitchen, dining room, living area, and reading nook.
For hikers who want to sleep outside during foliage season, the three large, grassy campsites at Journey’s are an excellent option. The open, spacious grounds and Northeast Kingdom surroundings make for an immersive fall experience, and having a real kitchen and shared indoor spaces available is a welcome bonus for a camping stay.
Foliage season accommodations in the Northeast Kingdom fill up fast. Booking early is strongly recommended, whether you are reserving a room or a campsite.
Add a Haircut Before You Head Home
After days on the trail, many hikers appreciate the option to get a clean cut before making the drive home. Julie Marckres at Journey’s Salon offers private, appointment-only haircuts with over 40 years of experience. Her scissor-over-comb technique is a good fit for both men and women looking for a precise, natural-finish cut. Schedule a salon appointment alongside your stay to finish your fall trip on a high note.
Plan Your Fall Foliage Hiking Trip to the Northeast Kingdom
Journey’s Salon & Guest House in North Troy, VT is a practical, welcoming base for fall foliage hiking in the Northeast Kingdom. With rooms, campsites, pet friendly accommodations, and an on-site salon, it covers more ground than most lodging options in the area. Schedule a reservation today and get your fall hiking plans locked in before the season peaks.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time for fall foliage hiking in the Northeast Kingdom?
Peak fall foliage in Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom typically runs from late September through mid-October. Higher elevations near Jay Peak tend to see color earlier in the season. Accommodations fill up quickly during this period, so booking early at Journey’s Salon & Guest House in North Troy, VT is recommended.
Are there good fall foliage hiking trails near North Troy VT?
Yes. North Troy is close to the Long Trail’s northern terminus, elevated terrain near Jay Peak, and a range of valley and riverside trails that are excellent for fall hiking. The Northeast Kingdom offers scenic foliage routes for all ability levels, including pet friendly options
Can I camp at Journey's Guest House during fall foliage season?
Yes. Journey’s Salon & Guest House in North Troy, VT has three large, grassy campsites available alongside its three indoor guest rooms. Camping during fall foliage season in the Northeast Kingdom is a great way to experience the region, and Journey’s pet friendly accommodations make it a good fit for travelers with dogs as well. In late September & early October it starts getting chilly at night so plan accordingly.
