When to Visit Montpelier
Year-round climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit by Travel Style
Beach & Relaxation
June through August offer the warmest weather for lakeside relaxation, though Vermont has limited beach options compared to coastal areas.
Cultural Exploration
May through October provides the most comfortable weather for walking tours and outdoor cultural events, with many attractions having extended hours.
Adventure & Hiking
June through September offers the best conditions for hiking with clear trails, while December through March is ideal for winter sports and snow activities.
Budget Travel
November through April (excluding holidays) offers lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds, though weather can be challenging for outdoor activities.
Month-by-Month Climate Guide
January
January is the coldest month with heavy snow cover and frequent sub-zero temperatures. Winter sports are in full swing, but visitors should prepare for harsh conditions. Indoor attractions and cozy restaurants provide warm refuges from the bitter cold.
February
February continues the deep winter pattern with cold temperatures and snow. Days begin to lengthen slightly, but winter conditions persist. This is prime time for skiing and other winter activities in the surrounding mountains.
March
March marks the beginning of spring's slow arrival, though snow and freezing temperatures are still common. The infamous 'mud season' begins as snow melts and frost leaves the ground. Weather can be highly variable with both winter and spring conditions possible.
April
April brings genuine spring weather with warming temperatures and longer days. Mud season continues as snow melts, making some outdoor activities challenging. Trees begin to bud and early spring flowers emerge.
May
May offers pleasant spring weather with warming temperatures and emerging foliage. This is an excellent time for outdoor activities as trails dry out and flowers bloom. Tourist season begins to pick up slightly.
June
June brings warm, comfortable weather perfect for outdoor exploration. Summer officially begins with long days and generally pleasant conditions. This marks the start of peak tourist season with all attractions fully operational.
July
July is typically the warmest month with summer heat and occasional humidity. Thunderstorms provide periodic relief from the heat. This is peak tourist season with the highest accommodation rates and busiest attractions.
August
August continues the warm summer pattern with hot days and comfortable evenings. Late summer thunderstorms are common, and the first hints of autumn may appear by month's end. Tourist activity remains high throughout the month.
September
September brings the beginning of fall with cooling temperatures and the start of foliage season. Early autumn colors begin to appear, making this a popular time for leaf-peeping. Weather is generally pleasant with crisp, clear days.
October
October is peak foliage season with spectacular autumn colors throughout the region. Cool, crisp weather provides perfect conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing. This is one of the busiest tourist months of the year.
November
November sees the transition from fall to winter with dropping temperatures and the first snowfalls. Most leaves have fallen, and the landscape takes on a stark beauty. Tourist crowds diminish significantly after peak foliage season.
December
December brings the onset of winter with cold temperatures and increasing snowfall. Holiday decorations and winter activities create a festive atmosphere. This is the beginning of ski season, though crowds remain relatively low except during holidays.