Vermont is known for being a world-class fall foliage and ski destination, but there’s one month between these two seasons where prices dip and the crowds thin out – the serene season of November, also known as Stick Season throughout the state.
You might be wondering if Vermont in November is worth visiting, or if there’s anything to do, and I’m here to help! While it’s definitely not a straight yes or no answer, I’ll tell you what Vermont is like in this transitional season, what to expect, things to do in November, and the pros and cons of visiting during this time. So, let’s get into it!
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So, Is Vermont Worth Visiting In November?
This really depends. Personally, I love everywhere in New England in November, and it’s quickly become one of my favorite months of the entire year. Vermont is no exception to this! November brings a welcomed sense of peace between two busy season: fall foliage and winter ski season. It’s definitely a transitional month that lies somewhere between fall and winter, and weather can vary quite a bit.
It’s worth visiting Vermont in November if you’re looking for fewer crowds, cheaper hotel rates, and you don’t mind traveling during a transitional time where the scenery is not at its most beautiful, and weather is unpredictable.
It’s not worth visiting in November if you’re hoping to experience peak fall foliage or have reliable snow for skiing, which are two of the biggest reasons many people vacation in Vermont. It’s also not worth visiting Vermont in November if you’re hoping for idyllic scenery, as this is generally a more dull time to visit in terms of the general scenery and landscapes. The trees are bare, and there’s not usually pretty blankets of snow on the ground.
What Exactly Does Stick Season In Vermont Mean?
Noah Kahan made this phrase more popular, but it’s a real term that’s often used in the northeast! Stick Season is the time between fall and winter when all the leaves have fallen, leaving bare “sticks” on the trees.
The season usually begins in mid to late October (depending on where in the state you are), and continues through late November or early December, when the state sees its first significant snowfall.
Stick season begins closer to mid-October in the higher elevations, as those areas reach peak foliage earlier. The southern areas of Vermont start to enter into Stick Season later in the month. Once Halloween rolls around, the entire state is typically in Stick Season.
What’s Vermont Like In November?
Vermont feels calm and cozy during the month of November. There’s still some foliage left on the ground to remind you that it’s still fall, and there’s often still crunchy leaves on sidewalks.
Overall, though, there’s a bit of a “grayness” to the scenery since the trees are bare by November, as mentioned. So landscapes look a bit more dull, but there’s something special about Vermont’s rural scenery that still makes this a beautiful time to experience it. You just have to adjust your expectations.
But as temperatures dip and the air feels more crisp, this is a great time of year to book a stay at a cozy inn with a fireplace, and enjoy the not-quite-fall, and not-quite-winter atmosphere! Because this is a transitional month, hotels and inns tend to reduce their rates, which means you can find some great deals at the usually-more-expensive places to stay. November is one of my favorite times to travel through New England for this reason.
Weather In Vermont In November – How Cold Does It Get?
To paint a better picture of November in the Green Mountain State, knowing what kind of weather to expect may help you decide what to do, or if this is a good time for you to visit.
Generally speaking, the temperatures average 36-37°F, reaching into the low 40’s(F) during the day, and into the low 30’s(F) at night. This, of course, can vary quite a bit, and often depends on where in Vermont you are, and which part of November you’re visiting.
For example, the northern and mountains regions of the state are usually a bit colder than the southern parts, and early November is typically warmer than late November.
However, global warming has impacted average temperatures across New England, so while November is usually a colder month, it still sees warm and sunny days, too. I’ve found weather is be kind of all over the place during my visits in November, and it’s best to check the forecast a few days before your travels to get a more accurate idea of what the weather is looking like during your stay.
For example, on my one of my mid-November trips to central Vermont in 2024, I had one day where it was 55°F and sunny all day, and the next day, it only got to about 40°F and it rained off and on. Higher elevations got a light snowfall that day. It really just depends!
Vermont’s November Stick Season: Important FAQs
Does It Snow In Vermont In November?
It can, yes! In fact, Vermont usually sees it’s first significant snowfall (meaning an inch or more) in November, so it’s very possible you’ll have snow if you visit during this month, especially in mid to late November.
However, chances are slim that you’ll experience a big blizzard, or so much snow that it would be difficult to get around. If there is a snowfall in November, it’s more likely that it’ll be light, and not more than a few inches. But the higher your elevation, the more likely snowfall can happen.
While driving around in Vermont, you almost always have some kind of mountain view, and the tops of the mountains are always snow-capped in November. But that doesn’t mean the ground will be covered in snow.
Is November Too Late For Fall Foliage In Vermont?
Yes it is. Peak foliage season in Vermont starts around the last weekend in September in the northern areas, and lasts through mid to late October in the southern areas.
By the last week of October, even in the southern region, the leaves are on the ground. There may be a few stragglers on some branches in various areas, but you’ll see a lot of those sticks I mentioned earlier 😉
What To Pack For A November Trip
As mentioned, weather can be a bit moody in Vermont during this month, so it’s best to check weather forecasts a few days before your visit to know what to expect. However, it’s generally safe to assume that the temperatures will be chilly, and you’ll want to pack accordingly.
🍁 Psst! I update my curated fall shopping list every season with current styles, which you can take a look at by clicking here. You’ll find direct links to my favorite things there to make prepping for your trip much easier.
Here are some things I generally always pack for a November trip to Vermont:
→ Boots for walking around (Bean Boots, or duck boots in general are great).
→ A warm jacket. This likely doesn’t need to be a thick winter parka, but you’ll need to stay warm.
→ Jeans and long-sleeved shirts and/or sweaters. Vermont is a casual place! No fancy clothes needed.
→ Hats and gloves.
→ Hiking boots if you’re planning to hit the trails.
→ Wool socks. These repel moisture, stay odor-free longer, and therefore, keep your feet more warm. Darn Tough Socks are perfect, and a Vermont business!
→ A camera, of course 😉
→ Your ski gear, if planning to hit the slopes. Which brings me to the next question …
Can You Ski In Vermont In November?
Usually, yes! At least a couple of ski resorts in Vermont are often open by mid November, and the majority of the remaining resorts tend to open between the rest of November and early December.
Usually, the first two resorts to open in are the two more popular ones: Killington and Stowe.
By mid to late November, expect Bromley, Stratton, Jay Peak, Okemo, Mount Snow, Pico, and Sugarbush to also start opening for the season.
Keep in mind that dates can change each year, depending on the weather. So you’ll want to check each resort individually every season to confirm its projected opening date.
What About Hiking November?
Hiking in November is absolutely an option, but you’ll just want to practice extra caution, as there could be some more wintery conditions on the trails as you gain elevation.
For hiking this time of the year, I’d recommend headlamps since the days are shorter, and also crampons/microspikes. You may not need the microspikes at the start of the trailheads, but keep them in your backpack as you progress on the trails just in case you encounter some ice or snow.
It’s also good to know that trails could be pretty muddy or wet in November if there’s some rainfall, or a random snowfall that’s melted. So just be careful, know the conditions on the trails, prepare accordingly, and enjoy! Vermont has some absolutely beautiful hikes ranging from beginner to difficult.
Important Tip For Hunting Season In Vermont: Hunting season is in full swing in November, so if you’re out on any trails, it’s a good idea to have an awareness regarding hunters, and if hunting is allowed in that area. If so, you’ll want to wear bright colors and/or reflective gear to stay safe.
Where To Stay In Vermont In November
There really isn’t one place in Vermont that’s better or worse in November – it’s still all about visiting the best places in the state, and embracing the season. So, many of my recommendations are similar to the ones I’d recommend year-round, especially for first-timer visitors looking to experience the most beautiful and charming areas of Vermont.
However, I’m noting some great places to stay that are extra cozy in November, and also offer cheaper rates than normal this time of the year.
Lodge At Spruce Peak: Located in Stowe, this is one of the best resorts in Vermont, and November offers some nice, off-season rates that are far less than fall, winter, and even summer! Enjoy amenities like one of the state’s best spas, on-site dining, and mountain views from the resort grounds.
→ Click here to check November rates & availablity at the Lodge at Spruce Peak
Woodstock Inn & Resort: Located in Woodstock, this inn is known as being “Vermont’s most beautiful address,” and it’s hard to disagree. The inn also typically offers nice off-season rates in November, making this luxury stay more affordable in November. You can also enjoy on-site dining, a full spa, and gorgeous rooms during your stay. They’re also pet-friendly!
Click here to check November rates & availability at the Woodstock Inn & Resort
Kimpton Taconic: Located in Manchester, the Kimpton Taconic is usually pretty pricey the rest of the year, but is a lot more affordable in November. The rooms here are beautiful, and are centrally-located to the top things to do in town. This hotel is also pet-friendly.
Click here to check November rates & availability at the Kimpton Taconic
Things To Do In Vermont In November
Much like where to go in November, the things to see and do will be similar to year-round activities, just while enjoying them during Stick Season. In my suggestions below, you’ll notice that these are simply some of the top things to do in Vermont regardless of the season, but I’ll share a few November tips along the way, too!
Tour The Covered Bridges
Vermont is home to over 100 covered bridges, and they’re so much fun to see year-round. And in November, it’s not likely you’ll see anyone else while exploring the bridges.
There are so many options all over the state, but Bennington, Stowe, and Montgomery are all towns with multiple covered bridges to see.
But if you’re looking to see covered bridges throughout the entire state, you could also embark on my Vermont Covered Bridges Road Trip, which covers a lot of ground!
Head Out On A Scenic Drive Or Road Trip
Speaking of road trips, this is also a great option in November before the snowfall becomes more consistent. There are some wonderful options for day trips and road trips throughout the state, even in November.
The most famous drive in the state is Route 100, which runs the entire length of Vermont, heading north or south. There are some fantastic stops to make along the way, including Wilmington, Plymouth, and Stowe. I actually have an entire guide on taking a Vermont Route 100 Road Trip, if you need more ideas 😉
Route 7 is another scenic drive that takes you through Bennington, Manchester (via a short detour), Middlebury, and Shelburne.
However, since most views along the roads in Vermont are scenic, there are so many more possibilities to explore just by hitting the road. I especially love driving around the scenic roads of the Northeast Kingdom – even in November!
Experience A Bird Walk At Hildene
Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home is a must-see, historic estate in Manchester. And in addition to touring the house and grounds, you can also join one of their free guided bird walks around their property.
All skill levels are welcome to join while you traverse forest and meadow terrain to spot and learn about various bird species (depending on the exact tour you join). This is a great way to get outside in November, and also learn a new skill (or hone in on your passion for nature 😉).
Click here to access Hildene’s events calendar for upcoming bird walks.
Shop Small
Whenever I visit the local shops in Vermont during my November trips, I usually stumble upon some good sales, or just really enjoy the experience without a lot of other people.
Souvenir shops, especially, tend to run a lot of sales on apparel after the busy foliage season. However, there are so many amazing boutiques throughout the state that it’s always just fun to shop small and local.
Woodstock, Burlington, Stowe, and Manchester are all my favorite places for shopping in Vermont, and you’ll find so many independently-owned boutiques with awesome, unique finds. But great shops are not limited to these areas, of course, and you’ll find wonderful places to support in every town you visit.
This is also a great time to get a head start on your holiday shopping 😉
Attend A Family Thanksgiving At Billings Farm & Museum
If you’re looking for something unique to do this November, embrace the traditions of a 19th-century Thanksgiving at Billings Farm & Museum in Woodstock!
Step inside the historic 1890 Farm Manager’s House to get a glimpse of what a Thanksgiving table looked like in the late 1800s. You can also join the “What’s for Dinner” program to learn more about traditional holiday meals, or stop by the Learning Kitchen to try your hand at making and tasting pie crust.
There are plenty of hands-on activities for all ages, from crafting woven paper placemats to sharing your own favorite holiday traditions on the Sharing Wall. Outside, warm up by the cozy fire pits with a cup of hot cocoa, spiced apple cider, or a freshly made cider donut, all available for purchase in the Museum Gift Shop.
This event usually takes place the weekend after Thanksgiving, making it the perfect excuse to extend your Thanks for even longer this season.
Head Out On A Nature Walk Or Hike
As mentioned earlier, there are plenty of trails to explore in Vermont – even in November! So while you’ll want to be very aware of trail conditions, and plan accordingly, there are some great options based on your skill and comfort level.
If you’re looking for relaxing nature walks, the Robert Frost Trail and Mile Around Woods Trail in Bennington are great options that are flat and easy. In Woodstock, the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park has quite a few different trails, some of which are easy in difficulty. Lastly, the Stowe Recreation Path offers flat terrain, and takes you by a variety of landscapes.
More more moderate hiking options, the Prospect Rock Trail in Manchester is a really fun one that’s steep, but with easy-to-manage terrain. I also enjoy the Owls Head Mountain Trail in the Groton State Forest.
However, this doesn’t come close to scratching the surface of the trails available in Vermont, and just. gives you a few ideas. November is a great time to cross some more hikes off your bucket list, though.
Enjoy A Cozy Farm-To-Table Meal
I’ll be honest with you – one of my favorite things to do during my November trips is to book a nice farm-to-table dinner out, as Vermont is known for its incredible restaurants featuring local ingredients.
This time of the year, squash, gourds, celery, carrots, and lettuce mixes are all still harvested in Vermont, plus many other delicious foods. And restaurants throughout the state love to feature what’s in season on their menus to support the local farms. This is a great time to plan a special dinner out and enjoy the flavors of the season.
Some wonderful restaurants to try this time of the year are:
→ Hen of the Wood in Waterbury & Burlington
→ Oakes & Evelyn in Montpelier
→ The Silver Fork in Manchester
→ The Left Bank in Weston
→ Cloudland Farm in Woodstock
Taste The Local Beer, Cider, and Spirits
Vermont to home to some amazing breweries, cideries, and distilleries, and this is a fantastic time of year to get acquainted with them! You’ll find that most of them are much quieter this time of the year, and it’s not only easier to get a table, but the ambience is more relaxing because of this, too.
Some of my favorite places to check out are:
→ The Alchemist in Stowe (this one tends to have crowds year-round because it’s so popular, but not as bad as foliage or ski season in November!)
→ Stowe Cider
→ Foam Brewers in Burlington
→ Barr Hill by Caledonia Spirits – go here for great, seasonal cocktails featuring their award-winning gin!
→ Soulmate Brewing Company in Morristown
→ Hill Farmstead Brewery in Greensboro Bend
→ WhistlePig Tasting Room – Quechee, right by Simon Pearce
Enjoy The Last Of The Seasonal Fall Coffee & Drink Specials
Throughout November, most coffee shops and cafés still have their festive fall coffee, tea and other drink specials available – without the fall crowds. It’s especially nice to savor the last few days of the fall season with these delicious coffee and tea drinks before switching to winter flavors!
Enjoy A Glass-Blowing Demonstration At Simon Pearce
Located in Quechee, not far from Woodstock, the Simon Pearce flagship store is such a fun experience to have.
Not only is it home to a beautiful restaurant called The Mill, which overlooks the river and covered bridge, they also have glass-blowing demonstrations on the lower level of the store. In this area, artisans with years of experience will be showing how the iconic Simon Pearce pieces are made, and they’re also very willing to talk to you and answer questions along the way.
You’ll have a much bigger appreciation for the pieces in the store after seeing the time and craft it takes to create just one, small item!
Pamper Yourself With A Spa Day
November is one of my favorite months to book a day at the spa because after the busy fall foliage season has ended, and the lively holiday season lies ahead, it’s the perfect way to get in some quality rest and recharging time. And since November isn’t a popular tourism month in Vermont, a lot of spas run specials, so it’s a great time to save a few bucks, too.
Some of the places I recommended you book a stay at the beginning of this post are home to amazing spas, including the Lodge at Spruce Peak (the Spa at Spruce Peak is continually rated as one of the top spas in New England), as well as the spa at the Woodstock Inn & Resort.
Additionally, here are some other great places to check out to pamper yourself a bit this time of the year:
→ Nopnotch Spa in Stowe
→ The Vermont Salt Cave in Montgomery
→ Absolute Wellness Healing Spa in Burlington
→ The Spa at The Essex Resort in Manchester
Book A Wheel Workshop At Farmhouse Pottery
I love to recommend the Wheel Workshops at Farmhouse Pottery in Woodstock year-round, but in November, it’s especially fun to learn a new skill during a quiet time of the year.
This now-famous pottery boutique sells their pieces in shops all over the country, but everything is still hand-thrown right in Vermont at their flagship studio. You can certainly just plan some time to visit their shop and observe potters at work in the studio. However, getting your own chance at the wheel is so much fun.
My husband and did a Wheel Workshop together as a fun date day, and we still talk about how much we enjoyed it. You’ll get hands-on instruction from one of their master potters, and get to make your own piece to take home with you. If you don’t love locally, they’ll ship you the piece once it’s been glazed and fired.
Click here for information on Wheel Workshops this season.
Enjoy The Holiday Kick-Off Festivities
Lastly, the end of November brings the start of the holiday season, and after the Thanksgiving tables have been cleared, it’s all about tree lightings, caroling, and festive celebrations around Vermont.
Many towns kick off their holiday festivities with events at the end of the month, the weekend after Thanksgiving day. And, at the very least, you’ll begin to see holiday decorations go up around this time.
You may also enjoy:
- Vermont Or New Hampshire In The Fall: Which Is Best?
- Ultimate Guide To Vermont In The Fall
- Cool Things Vermont Is Known For
- Where To Stay In Vermont In The Fall: Best Hotels & Inns!
- Best Things To Do In Stowe, VT
- Best Things To Do In Woodstock, VT
- Ultimate Fall New England Road Trip Itinerary
- Stowe Or Woodstock, VT: Which Is Better To Stay In?
That’s A Wrap On Vermont In November
And there you have it, everything you need to know about visiting Vermont in November during Stick Season. This beautiful transition season isn’t for everyone, but it’s definitely one to consider. Whether you’re looking to avoid the crowds, want lower hotel rates, or are just looking for a unique time to visit, this is definitely one of the most calm and peaceful months to visit the beautiful Green Mountain State.
