Green Mountain Byway
A stunning Vermont scenic drive famed for its vibrant fall foliage, charming towns, and iconic attractions like Ben & Jerry's.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak fall foliage colors
Green Mountain Byway
Best Time
Peak fall foliage colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Vermont scenic drive famed for its vibrant fall foliage, charming towns, and iconic attractions like Ben & Jerry's.
"The Green Mountain Byway is a must-drive for fall colors, offering charming towns and iconic stops."
🚗 Embrace the Road Trip
The Byway is best explored by car. Allow ample time to stop and enjoy the scenery .
🍁 Chase the Foliage
Peak fall colors are usually early to mid-October. Check foliage reports before you go .
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.9 · 33 reviews
Type
Gift Shop
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stowe Village Charm
Stowe
Quaint New England village with shops, restaurants, and stunning mountain views.
Ben & Jerry's Factory
Waterbury
Tour the famous ice cream factory and indulge in delicious, creative flavors.
Smugglers' Notch Pass
Between Stowe and Cambridge
A dramatic, winding mountain pass with breathtaking views and hiking opportunities.
Cold Hollow Cider Mill
Waterbury Center
Savor fresh cider, donuts, and local Vermont products in a rustic setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Fall Foliage Drive
Essential Stops Along the Byway
Many visitors also enjoy the unique gift shops in Waterbury.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Embrace the Road Trip
The Byway is best explored by car. Allow ample time to stop and enjoy the scenery.
🍁 Chase the Foliage
Peak fall colors are usually early to mid-October. Check foliage reports before you go.
🍦 Sweet Stops Abound
Don't miss Ben & Jerry's in Waterbury and local cider mills for treats.
📸 Capture the Views
Pull over at designated scenic overlooks for the best photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Embrace the Road Trip
The Byway is best explored by car. Allow ample time to stop and enjoy the scenery.
🍁 Chase the Foliage
Peak fall colors are usually early to mid-October. Check foliage reports before you go.
🍦 Sweet Stops Abound
Don't miss Ben & Jerry's in Waterbury and local cider mills for treats.
📸 Capture the Views
Pull over at designated scenic overlooks for the best photo opportunities.
🛍️ Unique Souvenirs
Waterbury gift shops offer quality Vermont-made items and custom t-shirts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Green Mountain Byway, especially during fall for its stunning foliage and scenic drives. The charming towns of Waterbury and Stowe, along with attractions like Ben & Jerry's, are frequently highlighted as enjoyable stops. Some find the fall crowds can be significant, and Smugglers' Notch can be challenging to navigate.
"My sister got me an awesome Maple Creemee shirt a while ago as a gift from this place so I decided to stop in while I was in Waterbury and was totally enchanted by this store!
The gifts were quality products and The prices were pretty decent for being right across the street from Ben& Jerry's.
They had some great Vermont products, t-shirts which they have a t-shirt press right there and make a shirt for you in the size and color of your choice. They had magnets and stickers and maple syrup from various local places.
Stop in and check it out! 🍁"
Erin Taylor
"One of the few gift shops that I stopped by during this short visit to Vermont for the 2024 Solar Eclipse. Whilst everyone here has been SUPER friendly so far, I’d give it to the staff here as being the friendliest, chirpiest, and nicest people I’ve come across during this visit. It’s obvious that there is excitement in the air due to the sheer number of people visiting as well as the once-in-a-lifetime event in this particular area BUT you’ve got to give to them for showing it in the sweetest way possible.
They carry quite a bit of trinkets and locally made goods and make some of their own as well. I just wanted something simple to commemorate this visit and left with a bag they made for the eclipse, a sticker, and as always, a fridge magnet to add to the collection.
Definitely stop by if you’re in this part of town!"
Jireh Huang
"Great little shop just across from Ben and Jerry's. The kids got to do a little game when we entered - finding Waldo hidden in the store. They found him and got a prize! Such a cool idea. The store clerk was super friendly and helpful as well. I definitely recommend you make this stop when you are in Stowe!"
Justin Biehl
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Green Mountain Byway is easily accessible by car. It runs through central Vermont, connecting Waterbury to Stowe and beyond. Major routes like I-89 provide access to the byway's starting points.
No, the Green Mountain Byway is a two-way road. It's a scenic route designed for leisurely driving, with plenty of pull-offs for enjoying the views.
While parts of the Byway are open year-round, Smugglers' Notch Pass (Route 108) is typically closed to vehicles from late October/early November through mid-May due to snow. Always check road conditions before traveling in winter.
Waterbury and Stowe are the most popular towns along the Byway, offering attractions like the Ben & Jerry's Factory and charming village centers.
Public transportation options are limited directly along the Byway itself. It's best explored by car. However, there are bus services to towns like Waterbury and Stowe.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, driving the Green Mountain Byway is free. There are no entrance fees for the scenic road itself. Some attractions along the way, like the Ben & Jerry's Factory, may have tour fees.
Attraction hours vary. The Ben & Jerry's Factory typically operates daily, but it's best to check their official website for current hours and tour availability. Gift shops and mills also have their own schedules.
No, scenic overlooks along the Green Mountain Byway are generally accessible without any special passes or permits. They are part of the public roadway.
Yes, you can visit the Ben & Jerry's Factory for their scoop shop and gift shop without taking a full tour. However, the tour offers a behind-the-scenes look and is highly recommended by visitors.
There is no admission fee to drive through Smugglers' Notch. However, it is a seasonal road and is closed during winter months.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for pull-offs along Route 100 and Route 108 (Smugglers' Notch). The views from higher elevations, especially during sunrise or sunset, are spectacular.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Weekdays are also less crowded, allowing for unobstructed shots.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check with local authorities and be aware of any restrictions, especially in state parks or near private property, to ensure responsible flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the foliage or distant mountains. A tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
Explore the smaller country roads branching off the main Byway. You might discover charming farmhouses, covered bridges, or secluded forest scenes.
🚇 🚗 Getting Around
Yes, the Green Mountain Byway is well-marked and easy to follow. Route 100 and Route 108 are the primary roads. GPS or a good map is always helpful.
To truly enjoy the scenery and make stops, allocate at least half a day. If you plan to visit attractions like Ben & Jerry's and hike, a full day or even an overnight stay is recommended.
Gas stations are available in Waterbury and Stowe, and in smaller towns along the route. It's advisable to fill up before heading into more remote sections, especially during peak foliage season.
Road conditions are generally good, especially on the main routes. However, Smugglers' Notch can be narrow and winding. Always check for any temporary closures or construction, particularly outside of peak season.
Yes, the Green Mountain Byway is a popular route for cyclists. Be aware of vehicle traffic, especially on narrower sections and during busy times. Dedicated bike lanes are not common.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit