KILLINGTON, Vermont — The colors on Killington Peak are just now starting to change and the Vermont Department of Tourism is predicting the upcoming foliage season could be the best in recent years after a cool, rainy summer.

Killington Resort, the epicenter of fall foliage in New England, provides the perfect “Staycation” opportunity by offering aerial foliage viewing via the K-1 Gondola, plus mountain biking, hiking and special events, including the 14th annual Killington Brewfest, to showcase the spectacular autumn colors throughout the Green Mountains of Vermont. In addition, the Town of Killington’s Hay Fest features 35 creations from Teddy Bears, to cows, dogs and snow groomers on display as various businesses around town.

Killington Resort’s central location provides foliage viewers the perfect opportunity to enjoy all the region has to offer. Within minutes of Killington Resort, visitors will find quintessential Vermont towns such as Woodstock, Pittsfield, Manchester and Rutland, all of which feature numerous fall events and farmers markets. Historically, the leaves start to change the second to third week of September with “peak foliage season taking place around the first to second week of October,” according to the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing.

A scenic ride on the K-1 Gondola to the highest lift-served terrain in Vermont offers an opportunity to view the foliage colors in the heart of the Green Mountains. In addition, the summit of Killington Peak, a short 10-minute hike from the top of the gondola, provides a panoramic view of five states and Canada on a crisp, clear autumn day. Killington Resort offers a full month of events and activities to highlight Mother Natures fall fireworks.

Fall Foliage Gondola Rides
A round-trip ride on the K-1 Gondola is $15 for adults and $10 for juniors ages 6-12 or seniors over 65. The K-1 Gondola is open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. weekends through October 4th and daily October 5th through 12th. Killington Resort offers fall foliage lodging packages, including a roundtrip ride on the K-1 Gondola, starting at $36 per person/per night through October 12.

Mountain Biking
Killington’s Kona “Groove Approved” mountain bike park is served via the K-1 Gondola throughout the fall season. An all-day lift and trail access pass is $35 for adults and $22 for juniors ages 6-12. Mountain bike and equipment rental is available in the Killington Mountain Bike Shop located in the K-1 Lodge, adjacent to the K-1 Gondola. Mountain biking lodging packages are available from $52 per person/per night.

Fall Mountain Golf Getaways
Killington’s award-winning, 18-hole championship golf course is open for play daily throughout foliage season. The 6,168-yard, par-72 course features mountainous terrain and challenges the most polished of players while allowing novices an opportunity to improve their game in a beautiful alpine setting. Mountain Golf Getaways start at $101 per person and include 18-hole greens fees, cart rental and one night lodging. Golfers can book tee times online at www.killingtongolf.com.

14th Annual Killington Brewfest
The 14th Annual, and largest ever, Killington Brewfest returns October 3 with a variety of microbreweries and craft breweries from throughout New England pouring more than 60 of their top choice ales, pilsners, stouts and hand-crafted lagers. Admission is $25. Brewfest lodging packages start at $39 per person and include Brewfest admission.

Killington Ski Swap
The annual Killington Ski Club Ski Swap returns with great deals October 9-11 at the Snowshed Lodge.