Fall color is still holding on in some parts of Vermont, but we are on the heels of stick season… After the state welcomes many visitors during the height of Vermont summer and for the treat of rich foliage colors during Vermont fall, stick season is forgotten about and a less-than-popular time to visit the state.

Vermont’s stick season is, however, a uniquely comforting and peaceful time in the Green Mountain State… Here’s why you should consider a trip in the off-season. (Cue Noah Kahan’s Stick Season…)

What is Stick Season in Vermont?

Stick season is Vermont’s fifth season. (The sixth? Mud season!). It greets us usually mid-October until Thanksgiving or so when snow flies for the first time in Vermont. The days are shorter, the nights are cooler, and there’s a distinctive (and welcome) slowdown around the state. Trees are removed from their leaves and the landscape turns gray. There’s a dampness in the ground and moodier skies.

Here are 7 compelling reasons why a stick-season adventure in Vermont might be your best trip yet…

Reasons to Prioritize a Vermont Off-Season Vacation

1. During stick season in Vermont, lodging is the least expensive you can find and you can often book super last minute. Some hotels and inns do shut down during stick season for renovations coming off busy seasons. There are plenty of wallet-friendly options throughout the state during this time of the year.

2. If you like being spontaneous, stick season allows for less planning – as you don’t need to make reservations ahead for restaurants or plan your driving routes to avoid slowdowns.

3. Find authentic Vermont beauty amidst the gray… When leaves have fallen and grass begins to die, seemingly everything in the Vermont landscape turns gray. We have blue skies some days but the season is somber and moody. There is definite beauty in a duller landscape, one that locals find comforting and peaceful.

4. Fewer visitors to the state means more conversations with locals. Personally, I love heading to a brewery wherever I’m visiting and getting the inside scoop on a new town from a local. Some restaurants will be closed, but locals’ spots will remain open. Truly travel like a local and experience Vermont like a resident during stick season.

More Reasons to Visit Vermont During Stick Season

5. There are no crowds during Vermont’s stick season. In fact, the state becomes eerily quiet. Many locals breathe a sigh of relief having made it through another busy season. Foliage in Vermont sure is stunning but it does bring traffic delays on route 100 and overall congestion that often doesn’t feel very Vermonty. Stick season is a more relaxed pace throughout the state.

6. Late October and November’s weather makes for great conditions for outdoor recreation! This unique season brings lower temperatures, which are perfect for a trek up the mountain, long bike ride on the Rail Trail, or easy nature walk.

7. Stick season in Vermont lends itself to a more authentic Vermont experience. In stick season, there aren’t expectations of traveling the state to find peak color or the best fresh powder. Settle for a slowdown. Get a cozy sweater, light the fire, slowly sip a local coffee. Relax and unwind, which Vermont stick season encourages.

Be part of the conversation: Have you visited Vermont during stick season?

Pin this post to remind yourself to book a Vermont stick season vacation!