The Most Scenic Drives in Vermont

From Route 66 all the way to The Loneliest Road that starts in Maryland, the United States is filled with fantastic road trips that have long been alluring travellers out onto the open road. With so many different routes to take, it’s near impossible to decide on just one road trip to take. These Vermont road trips are a great starting point for an adventure with friends.

Vermont may be a small state, but it really packs a punch when it comes to scenic drives. There’s so many beautiful places to stop on every route that a short drive can turn into a full day-trip, with stops at Ben & Jerry’s factory, mountain lookouts and river picnics.

The Best Vermont Road Trips

Mad River Scenic Byway

It may be short, but following two of Vermont’s most scenic roads, Routes 100 and 100B, this valley is a landscape of forested mountains, hillside farms, a flowing river, and church-steepled villages. You’ll also pass through famous ski areas (Sugarbush and Mad River Glen), as well as stops at the Mad River itself to stretch your legs.

Distance: 36 miles.

Route highlights: Madsonion Museum of Design; Mad River Trail; Sugarbush Resort.

When to do it: Mid-September through October for foliage.

Stowe Hollow and Little River Dam

This drive will take you down Gold Brook Road, where you can see the Gold Brook Covered Bridge, also known as Emily’s Bridge. This historic covered bridge is said to be haunted by the spirit of “Emily.” After the bridge, this drive will continue down Stowe Hollow Road, which has plenty of opportunities for beautiful foliage!

Distance: 30 miles.

Route highlights: Emily’s Bridge; Grandview Farm; Ben & Jerry’s Factory; Cabot Farmers’ Store.

When to do it: June – October.

Vermont Covered Bridge Tour

Vermont is home to more than 100, with five in Bennington County alone. Discover these historic landmarks on this Bennington County driving tour that goes right off Route 7 in Southern Vermont. The West Arlington bridge is Vermont’s most photographed and painted of all. See the route here.

Distance: 15 miles.

Route highlights: Chiselville Bridge; West Arlington Bridge; Silk Bridge.

When to do it: Summer/ Fall.

Vermont Double IPA Tour

It’s best to find a designated driver for this one! It’s a brewery trip that will take you to some of the best Vermont Double IPA breweries in the state. Starting at 14 Star in Saint Albans the route will take you South to Burlington visit to Farnham, Zero Gravity, Fiddlehead and Burlington Beer Company. From there, drive South into the Green Mountains and a visit to Lawsons Finest.

Distance: 234 miles.

Route highlights: Green Mountain; Burlington Beer Company; Big Fatties BBQ.

When to do it: Year-round.

Molly Stark Byway

This stunning scenic byway winds its way through lowland valleys, historic villages, busy downtowns, and the lush Green Mountain National Forest. The route links famous monuments, unique towns (like Woodford, the highest village in Vermont at 2,215 feet above sea level), historic districts, hiking trails, state parks, lakes, streams and waterfalls, so there’s plenty to see en route.

Distance: 44.8 miles.

Route highlights: Hogback Mountain; Green Mountain National Forest; Woodford.

When to do it: Year-round.

Lake Champlain Byway

Following the northern length of Lake Champlain for 185 miles south from the Canadian border, the Lake Champlain Byway has plenty to see and do en route. On the Lake Champlain Islands, gorgeous views of the lake can be seen at almost every bend in the road.

Distance: 185 miles.

Route highlights: Champlain Islands; Burlington; Middlebury; Vergennes.

When to do it: Year-round, but May – October is best.

Edson Hill and West Hill Loop

This scenic drive loops around the Stowe’s village before traveling up Mountain Road – where you’ll have plenty of chances to stop, shop or grab a snack on the way to to Edson Hill. This drive will take you through farmland in the northwest corner of Stowe. Maple trees lining the road as you start up Edson hill and down West Hill are at their most beautiful in fall.

Distance: 10.9 miles.

Route highlights: Wiessner Woods; Cady Hill Forest.

When to do it: October.