re: Vermont travel tips?

The entire state is a postcard for leaf watching at the right time. If you get to Manchester stay at the Inn at Manchester. Frank and his wife are the owners. The Battenkill River, one of the most famous fly fishing rivers on the planet is near Manchester. Frank has a friend that is a fishing guide and knows the fiver. Orvis has a huge store there and their rod making facility is directly behind their store. You can't miss the store - large log cabin with large stained glass window of a brown trout.
Whoever mentioned maple syrup know what they're talking about. I've forgotten the towns name but Jim and Josie Amaden make great syrup and just might show you their sugar shack (where they make the syrup).
Wish I was going with you.