I would also vote for NE. You might combine Maine with Vermont. If you head to the Northeast Kingdom (the area north of Saint Johnsbury in Central Vermont) you will find early color. My family has spent summer vacations at Lake Willoughby for three generations where there are wonderful hikes, bikes and walks. It is a beautiful deep glacial lake surrounded by mountains. You could stay at the Willoughvale Inn right on the Lake or there are many delightful B and B options in nearby Craftsbury Common and East Burke. Inn at Mountain View Farm or Wildflower Inn are both nice options. I recall attending an old time fall festival somewhere in NE Kingdom which was a wonderful slice of NE life. Montreal is only two hours away.