Vermont Mountain Roads to Travel Before the Snow Flies
September 19, 2026
Taking the scenic route along Vermont’s mountain roads lets you see gorgeous fall views from higher elevations. Many of these roads close in late October and don’t reopen until May, so now is your chance to explore them before the snow flies. Here are a few favorites to choose from this season.
Kelley Stand Road between East Arlington and Stratton
Kelley Stand Road between East Arlington and Stratton takes you deep into the Green Mountain National Forest. This beautiful Vermont mountain route offers access points for hiking, camping, mountain biking, and exploring. Kelley Stand initially served numerous logging camps and early settlements during the 19th century.
Kelley Stand Road is also where Daniel Webster spoke to 1,600 people at an 1840 Whig rally (A marker commemorates the spot along the road in Stratton). Enjoy access to Stratton Pond along The Long Trail, as well as trail loops around Grout Pond and Somerset Reservoir.
Getting there: From Route 7A, take East Arlington Road to Old Mill Road to Kansas Road. Turn right onto Kelley Stand Road. To access the road from the east, take Route 100 to West Wardsboro and head west on Stratton-Arlington Road, which eventually becomes Kelley Stand Road.
Route 108 through Smugglers’ Notch
Scenic Route 108, the most popular among Vermont mountain roads, is a paved route winds through Smugglers’ Notch connecting Stowe and Cambridge. This time of year, thousands of visitors descend upon the Notch to hike and explore the area.
Before the creation of Route 108 in the early 1920s, a footpath and horse trail crossed The Notch to transport goods to Canada illegally and smuggle alcohol during Prohibition.
These days, the Notch is perfect for hiking, leaf-peeping, and going for a scenic drive. Park at the top of Route 108 and access a trail across from the information booth to hike to Sterling Pond, the highest trout pond in the state.
Getting there: From Route 100 in Stowe, head north on Route 108 for about 7 miles before entering The Notch. You can also get there from Jeffersonville by taking Route 108 south.
Hazen’s Notch between Montgomery Center and Lowell
Near the Canadian border, Route 58 extends between Montgomery Center and Lowell. Like other Vermont mountain roads, this one quickly changes from pavement to dirt. It extends from west to east, and climbs steeply through one of the most remote parts of Vermont. Not only is Hazen’s Notch scenic, but it’s also one of Vermont’s most historic roads.
The road that was built by General Moses Hazen in 1778-79, and was abandoned in April 1779 when news broke that the British patrols might use it as an invasion route.
Getting there: From Interstate 89, take Exit 19 to Route 104 to Route 36. Turn Right onto Fairfax Road toward Route 105. Follow Route 118 to Montgomery Center and turn left on Route 58/Hazen’s Notch Road.
Lincoln Gap Road between Lincoln and Warren
Between Lincoln and Warren is Lincoln Gap Road. The road climbs over the Green Mountains and crests south of Mount Abraham, Vermont’s fifth tallest peak.
Start in the town of Lincoln where you’ll drive up a dirt road that eventually turns to pavement. Parking is available at the top of Lincoln Gap.
You can access the Long Trail to the north to hike Mount Abraham or opt for an easier hike to the south toward Sunset Ledge. Either way, this Vermont scenic road is worth the drive.
Getting there: From the north, take Route 116 south through Hinesburg and Starksboro. Take a left on Lincoln Road and travel 8 miles to Lincoln Gap Road.
Don’t forget about mountain toll roads
Mountain toll roads, including the Stowe Auto Toll Road, Equinox Skyline Drive, the Burke Mountain Scenic Toll Road, and the Mount Ascutney Parkway are other good options for fall. These roads typically close for the season between mid to late October and May.