Why Pomfret Vermont Restricted Influencers This Fall Season

Pomfret in autumn

You’ve likely seen the iconic autumn shots of Sleepy Hollow Farm in Pomfret, Vermont—a quaint town transformed each year into a tapestry of red, orange, and gold. Those images, often shared during the autumn travel season, made the town go viral. But what began as quiet roadside admiration eventually grew into a surge of Instagram tourism that overwhelmed the 900-resident community.

What Pushed Locals to Act
As more fall foliage seekers descended, narrow rural roads near the town—especially Cloudland Road—became congested. Tourists caused hazards that even hindered emergency vehicles, blocked traffic, and parked in unexpected places. Trespassing became widespread, and locals reacted negatively when influencers erected changing booths, scaled fences, and disregarded “No Trespassing” signs.

A Courageous Step to Safeguard a Community
Pomfret locals launched a GoFundMe campaign to combat overtourism and raised more than $22,000. During the height of the foliage season, funds supported road closures and enforcement. Roads leading to the farm were off-limits to visitors from late September to mid-October. By doing this, influencers and casual tourists were essentially prohibited from entering what had grown to be a crowded photo location.

Beyond a Simple Prohibition
Unchecked influencer-driven tourism can put a strain on small communities, as the Pomfret situation demonstrates. Pomfret’s response was not anti-tourist; rather, it was about maintaining the allure of a traditional weekend getaway while safeguarding privacy and public safety. They made it possible for the town to control sustainable tourism and keep accepting polite tourists by restricting access during peak hours.

How 2025 Is Playing Out
Pomfret’s approach didn’t end with a single season. In 2025, the town again restricted traffic from October 4 to 19, closing Cloudland Road and adjusting traffic flow on Barber Hill Road. Town officials cited safety, environmental concerns, and quality of life as prime reasons. North and south of the iconic spot, enforcement included patrols by Windsor County Sheriff’s officers and temporary signage to divert or warn visitors.

What This Means for Your Visit
If you’re planning a fall road trip or spontaneous weekend leaf-peeping adventure, Pomfret remains beautiful—but access to its most famous viewpoint is regulated. You can still enjoy cheap flights for September and explore broader regions of Vermont. Consider other serene destinations for solo travel, eco-conscious travelers, or digital nomads seeking nature and peace without crowds.

The postcard-perfect image

Alternatives That Still Deliver
Here’s how to plan a fulfilling fall escape without compromising on experience:

• Visit before peak season—or after—to enjoy the foliage with fewer crowds.
• Discover lesser-known paths or farms in the Green Mountains.
• Prioritize budget travel options like quaint B&Bs, fall fairs, or hikes suitably distanced from celebrity hot spots.

Apply eco-friendly travel tips like packing reusable items and respecting property boundaries for the full experience.

You’ve seen the postcard-perfect image of Pomfret in autumn. Now, know the story behind it—the town’s decision to prioritize community over clickbait. As fall arrives, this lesson applies to all of us: the best travel experiences are rooted in respect, awareness, and genuine appreciation. By choosing thoughtfully, you can enjoy breathtaking foliage, honor local life, and make memories that matter—without disrupting the places you love.