Planning Ahead for Winter at Stowe Mountain Resort

November 12, 2021

by ASA WORTHLEY, STOWE MOUNTAIN RESORT

While considered a year-round destination, there’s no place like Stowe in the winter! But don’t just take our word for it: Stowe was ranked among “The World’s Best Ski Towns” by National Geographic and is currently in the running for a USA Today 10Best Ski Town (among other winter accolades). Looking to make the most of your ski trip this winter? Read on for tips to plan an unforgettable ski vacation in Stowe, Vermont.

Get Stowe-ked!

‘Tis the season for ski and ride films and with opening day approaching fast, the countdown is on! Some of our favorite pre-season films this year include Warren Miller’s Winter Starts Now (coming to Spruce Peak Arts on November 26-27) and Dear Rider, the life and vision of local snowboarding pioneer Jake Burton Carpenter who propelled the sport into a global and cultural phenomenon (available on HBO Max). Be sure to also follow @stowemt on Instagram for the latest updates on snowmaking, #stowesnowfriday and pre-season hype!

Take advantage of the early ski and ride season

Stowe offers unparalleled snowmaking and grooming so you can enjoy the best conditions around, especially in the early season. Join us for opening day and start your winter right with some bonus days on the hill.


Know our commitment to safety

We are fortunate that the core of the ski and ride experience takes place outdoors in vast mountain settings, and we plan on loading lifts and gondolas at normal capacity this season. Additionally, we will not have a mountain reservation system, and face coverings will only be required in indoor settings, along with proof of vaccination for guests over 12 to dine at our indoor quick-service restaurants. Learn more about our safety protocols and the steps we’re taking.

Get your pass early to save

Purchase your Epic Season Pass early for the lowest price! We reduced pass prices 20% this year to make it easier for everyone to enjoy the mountains. Prices increase as the winter season approaches, so be sure to take advantage of the lowest price while you can. If Epic Day Passes are your jam, or Epic Season Passes are no longer on-sale, be sure to book your tickets online in advance—especially for limited holiday and peak weekend days—for the best price and convenience of getting to the lift faster.


Plan ahead for a seamless experience in Stowe

Make your trip to Stowe as smooth as possible. Book lodging early for the best available rates and availability of the season. Check back for lodging deals that may be offered. Plan ahead for dining as well as other activities to do and attractions to see. Go Stowe has the resources to plan your trip all in one place. Read their tips for a seamless experience traveling to Stowe, including recommedations for making restaurant reservations, especially for busy holidays periods.

Celebrate this historic year at Stowe Mountain Resort

Now in our 85th season of lift service, Stowe Mountain Resort welcomes you to join the celebration of the resort’s origin story—including the first lift which started spinning on Mount Mansfield at Toll Road on February 7, 1932—and also a look-ahead to the future of Stowe and our continued investment in improving the mountain experience, including a new lift anticipated for 2022-2023. Be on the lookout for unique experiences that celebrate our iconic heritage this season. 

Book lessons and equipment rentals

Whether you’re learning the sport with one of our incredible instructors, or are mastering the mountain with a Private Mountain Guide, upgrade your skills and start the season strong. Rentals are also available. Explore other activities at the resort, like ice skating or relaxing by an outdoor fireplace, while taking in the natural beauty of Mt. Mansfield.


Get around town with complimentary transportation

#NextStopStowe! In the winter months, a free bus service provides access to world-class skiing and snowboarding, dining, shopping, activities and attractions. The complimentary Mountain Road Shuttle offers convenient transportation in Stowe, which has some of Vermont’s best outdoor recreation that is a draw to many visitors in the winter. There may be delays on Mountain Road on weekends and holiday periods, especially when these overlap with inclement weather, which is why we encourage visitors to plan extra travel time and either ride the shuttle or travel with winter tires. View our guide for arriving and parking at the mountain. Download the Transit App to view the route and track busses in real-time.


Check for trail conditions and lift status

Check trail conditions with Stowe Mountain Resort’s terrain and lift status report for up-to-date info on lift operations. For live updates on weather, operations, terrain and parking information, go to @StoweMtAlerts on Twitter for the daily 6 a.m. report.

There’s no better place than Stowe, Vermont to rejuvenate among the fresh mountain air! View our first-time visitor guide for an unforgettable first trip to Stowe. Plan ahead for the ultimate relaxing trip this winter. 

Photos courtesy of Stowe Mountain Resort.