🍂 Fall Activities in Franklin County, Vermont the Whole Family Will Love

🍂 Fall Activities in Franklin County, Vermont the Whole Family Will Love

When the air gets crisp and the leaves burst into color, Franklin County comes alive with autumn magic. Whether you’re looking for adventure outdoors, seasonal treats, or cozy moments with the kids, there are plenty of ways to make fall memorable. Here are some of the best activities & spots around.

1. Pick-Your-Own Orchards & Seasonal Harvests

• Seven Saplings Farm (Richford, VT) — Apples, fresh-pressed cider, beautiful views. A classic fall outing. 

• Vermont Orchards (Franklin, VT) — A nice local orchard with PYO apples, cider, and cider donuts. 

• Hudak Farm (St. Albans, VT) - Enjoy seasonal produce and a wide selection of pumpkins.

2. Trails, Scenic Walks & Foliage Drives

• Missisquoi Valley Rail Trail — Stretching from Richford to St. Albans, this trail passes through farmland, woods, and small towns. The fall colors along river corridors are especially beautiful. 

• Long Trail State Forest — For families who like hiking, there are trails of varying difficulty; the forested areas are especially stunning in autumn. 

3. Parks, Water & Nature Centers

• Lake Carmi State Park — Even if it’s past peak swimming season, the lake, surrounding woods, and park spaces are perfect for paddling (if you still can), nature walks, picnics, and watching migratory birds. 

• Local farms & nature centers — Many offer programs in fall: pumpkin picking, hayrides, educational walks or crafts. (Check local listings for current offerings.)

4. Local Events & Festivals

Fall in Franklin County isn’t just about nature—it’s also about community. Here are some recurring or upcoming events:

• Soule House & Carriage Barn Fall Gathering (Fairfield) — Outdoor market, wagon rides, apple-press demos, face painting & vendors. Perfect for families. 

• Afterglow Music Festival (St. Albans) — Music + food + fall vibes. 

• Franklin Forty Gravel Ride (Highgate Center) — For families or groups who like being active outdoors. Even if kids don’t ride, it’s fun to watch or walk parts of the route. 

5. Cozy & Simple Moments

Sometimes the best fall days are quieter:

• Grab local cider donuts + warm cider, pile into the car, drive through the countryside to take in leaf colors.

• Bring a thermos of hot chocolate or soup and have lunch under colorful trees.

• Visit a roadside farm stand & bring home decorative gourds, mums, pumpkins—decorate together.

• Plan a family hike just for leaf-peeping, maybe end at a farm for something sweet.

✅ Fall Outing Checklist

To make sure your day is smooth & fun:

• Check orchard/farm hours & whether PYO is open (weather can affect this).

• Dress in layers & bring waterproof shoes—mornings can be dewy/cold.

• Bring camera (or phone) for foliage pics!

• Have snacks, water, maybe a blanket to sit on.

• If attending events, see if tickets/reservations are needed in advance.