Posted 10 Sep 2025 • Walk To | Fall Fun
Fall Fun with Furry Friends Around Lake Champlain
Fall in Vermont is pure magic, the air turns crisp, the mountains glow with fiery foliage, and every trail, vineyard, and orchard seems to sparkle a little brighter. For dog lovers, it’s also one of the best times to get outside and share the season’s adventures with your four-legged companions. Whether your pup is a trailblazer, a patio lounger, or a cider enthusiast (okay, maybe just the apple slices), there are plenty of dog-friendly fall activities near Lakeshore Vermont.
Here are some of our favorite ways to celebrate autumn with your furry friend:
Sip & Stroll at Shelburne Vineyard – Shelburne, VT
Golden vines, crisp air, and a glass of local wine, fall afternoons don’t get much better. At Shelburne Vineyard, dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio, where you can enjoy artisan cheese and charcuterie boards alongside award-winning Vermont wines. Your pup can soak in the sunshine while you sip something seasonal, like their popular Traminette.
📍 6308 Shelburne Rd, Shelburne, VT
Apple Picking at Chapin Orchard – Essex Junction, VT
What’s fall without apple picking? At Chapin Orchard, you and your pup can stroll through rows of McIntosh, Honeycrisp, and Cortland trees in a sustainably managed orchard. Fresh cider, homemade donuts, and rustic farm charm complete the experience. Dogs must stay leashed, but that just means more time for you both to take it slow and savor the day.
📍 150 Chapin Rd, Essex Junction, VT
Hiking Mount Philo – Charlotte, VT
For a little adventure, head to Mount Philo State Park, a local favorite for dog-friendly hiking. The one-mile forested trail climbs steadily to the summit, rewarding you with sweeping views over Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks. It’s a short hike with a big payoff, perfect for pups who like a brisk climb followed by a summit snack. Bring water, sturdy shoes, and a camera; you won’t want to miss those autumn vistas.
📍 5425 Mt Philo Rd, Charlotte, VT
Tips for Exploring with Your Pup This Fall
Sip & Stroll at Shelburne Vineyard – Shelburne, VT
Golden vines, crisp air, and a glass of local wine, fall afternoons don’t get much better. At Shelburne Vineyard, dogs are welcome on the outdoor patio, where you can enjoy artisan cheese and charcuterie boards alongside award-winning Vermont wines. Your pup can soak in the sunshine while you sip something seasonal, like their popular Traminette.
📍 6308 Shelburne Rd, Shelburne, VT
Apple Picking at Chapin Orchard – Essex Junction, VT
What’s fall without apple picking? At Chapin Orchard, you and your pup can stroll through rows of McIntosh, Honeycrisp, and Cortland trees in a sustainably managed orchard. Fresh cider, homemade donuts, and rustic farm charm complete the experience. Dogs must stay leashed, but that just means more time for you both to take it slow and savor the day.
📍 150 Chapin Rd, Essex Junction, VT
Hiking Mount Philo – Charlotte, VT
For a little adventure, head to Mount Philo State Park, a local favorite for dog-friendly hiking. The one-mile forested trail climbs steadily to the summit, rewarding you with sweeping views over Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks. It’s a short hike with a big payoff, perfect for pups who like a brisk climb followed by a summit snack. Bring water, sturdy shoes, and a camera; you won’t want to miss those autumn vistas.
📍 5425 Mt Philo Rd, Charlotte, VT
Tips for Exploring with Your Pup This Fall
- Always keep your dog leashed in public spaces and on trails.
- Pack water, treats, and waste bags for longer outings.
- Check ahead for dog-friendly rules at vineyards, orchards, and farms.
- Visit early in the day or on weekdays to avoid crowds and make the experience more enjoyable for both you and your pup.
From vineyard patios to mountain peaks, fall around Lake Champlain offers endless opportunities to explore with your furry friend. Whether you’re sipping wine, crunching through leaves, or snapping pumpkin patch photos, the season feels even sweeter with a pup by your side.