The following tips will be helpful for planning a fall visit to Vermont:

• Make reservations well in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the first two weekends of October.
• Innkeepers often require a minimum two-night stay during foliage season, particularly on weekends.
• Expect to make an advance deposit to assure your reservation. (No-shows are usually charged full price.)
• Be sure to understand the innkeeper's policy on refunds or reservation changes.
• Consider a multi-night stay in a resort area with day trips to surrounding sites and attractions.
• If you are planning at the last minute, schedule your trip to Vermont during the mid-week. Lodging choices will be far greater, as well as the opportunity to enjoy some special community events, such as chicken pie suppers, that are traditionally scheduled on week nights.
• Contact lodging bureaus at major resort areas or local chambers of commerce for the latest information on availibility.
• In Central Vermont call toll free 1-877-887-3678

If you do not make advance reservations, be sure to secure a room early each day. Vermont resort areas have the most abundant lodging facilities, including inns, hotels, and condominiums, during the foliage season. Lodging will often be available at these areas when beds are filled in cities and larger towns.

We've outlined four auto tours of Central Vermont. They are scenic anytime, but they are especially impressive during fall foliage. Enjoy the views from the comfort of your car: