Not every fall season is a showstopper. Vermont in 2025 was quieter than usual. But it was still Vermont in the fall, which means it was still beautiful in ways that are hard to explain to someone who has not driven those roads in October.

Fall in New England was not its best self in 2025. I went to New Hampshire anyway. Early mornings on the Kancamagus, fog over the mountains, and one tourist interaction that made me feel like a true New Englander.

I made a classic rookie mistake and drove the Kancamagus Highway during peak fall foliage season. I would do it again without hesitation.

Most people drive right past Flume Cascade without realizing it is there. That is exactly what makes it worth stopping for.

There are fall drives and then there is Crawford Notch in early October with fog sitting low over the mountains. They are not the same category.

The weather was not cooperating. Cloudy, foggy, light drizzle coming and going. I got out of the car anyway. Silver Cascade in Harts Location, NH is worth it every time.

If you are driving through Franconia Notch in October and you do not stop at The Basin, I need you to turn around. I know that sounds dramatic. I stand by it.