Winter Walks for Snowshoeing in Stowe
February 14, 2019 by METZI ANDERSON, STOWE LAND TRUST
Skiing may be one of the more popular winter activities in Stowe, yet there are other ways to explore the area during the snowy season. Snowshoeing has many unique advantages. For one, snowshoes are easy to transport, and use—especially if it’s something you’ve never tried before. Snowshoeing can be as relaxed or as strenuous as you like. You can also explore any kind of terrain snowshoeing in Stowe, and no matter what conditions, you’ll find plenty of breathtaking views along the way. We’d like to share with you some of our favorite snowshoe destinations on conserved lands. No snowshoes? No problem – several sporting good outfitters in Stowe have equipment rentals available, including AJ’s Ski & Sports, Ranch Camp and Umiak Outdoor Outfitters. Guided tours are also available.
Pinnacle Meadow
This gentle, 15-minute hike offers big rewards. Enjoy stunning views of the Worcester Range and across to the Green Mountains. If you’re up for a longer and more challenging hike, continue to the rocky summit of Stowe Pinnacle. Download trail map.
Sunset Rock
Located in the heart of Stowe’s Historic Village, Sunset Rock is a relatively easy walk with spectacular views. Walk from Sunset Street up the Sunset Rock Trail for a birds-eye view of Main Street. Continue to the Upper Overlook for a glimpse of Mount Mansfield. Stop in at Stowe Land Trust’s office, located at 6 Sunset Street, for a trail map or to say “Hello.” We would love to see you! Download trail map.
Page Forest
Adjacent to the town-owned Sterling Forest and the Mt. Mansfield State Forest, Page Forest is host to the beautiful Peak-A-View trail, which is well worth the lengthy trek to get there. Park in the Sterling Gorge parking area on Sterling Gorge Road and follow the Catamount Trail south to the Marston Trail to explore the surrounding area’s extensive trail network. Download trail map.
Mill Trail
Entering the Mill Trail property is like stepping into another world. The rushing river masks present-day distractions, and the wide trail begs the question: who and what used to be here? The remnants of cellar holes only add to the mystery of this unique property. Download Trail Map. Insider Tip: There are also fun events and guided tours available throughout the winter.
Wiessner Woods
Popular with young families looking for a close-to-home adventure, Wiessner Woods is a leisurely walk through the winter woods. Take in the views from the scenic overlook on the Meadow Trail, or simply enjoy the meandering trails through the forest. Download trail map.
Kirchner Woods
Once an active sugar bush, Kirchner Woods is full of mature sugar Maple trees. Now home to a fun, flowy three-mile trail network, Kirchner Woods is especially great for families with little ones. For a short jaunt, visit the Sipping Tree on the Lower Bucket Trail. Download trail map.
Cady Hill Forest
Easily accessible from the Mountain Road in Stowe, Cady Hill Forest has more than 11 miles of trails and is popular with both fat bike enthusiasts and snowshoers. Strap on your snowshoes or hop on two wheels to take a tour of the whole forest. Stretch your legs on a short outing up to the Green Chair and gaze out through the “tree window” at majestic Mount Mansfield. Download trail map.
Where is your favorite place to snowshoe in Stowe?
About the Author
Metzi, a Stowe native, joined Stowe Land Trust (SLT) as Operations Manager in 2014. Metzi’s appreciation for land conservation began at an early age when her family, along with the Town of Stowe, conserved Sterling Falls Gorge. An avid skier and runner, Metzi enjoys spending time on the beautiful trails on SLT conserved land and the many other trail networks in the surrounding region. Since 1987, the Stowe Land Trust has been working to protect the spectacular landscapes that make this community unique. More than 3,500 acres of land have been protected for recreational use as well as forest and farm land, natural resources and scenic views. For more information, visit www.stowelandtrust.org.