Fall Family Adventures in Stowe
September 25, 2018 by MEGAN LILJEDAHL
Stowe is an amazing lil’ town in all four seasons. The locals are wonderful people who love living in this special town and sharing their passion for it. For those visiting, this can mean a memorable experience. Not only will you meet wonderful people wherever you go, but you’ll also see first-hand why Stowe is so unique. Fall in particular is a special time of year with all the vibrant foliage. If your family wants to live like a local in Stowe this fall, read on for some insider tips.
Family Adventures
Cruise around on a bike with your family and explore what makes Stowe such a special place. Rent bikes at Trapp Family Lodge, which is known for having world-class biking trails. There are trails for all levels with great options for budding mountain bikers like my 4 year-old. Finish your ride at their new Bierhall for food and beverages. Cady Hill Forest is another extensive mountain bike trail system that locals enjoy riding in. For those looking for a gentler ride or stroll, the Stowe Recreation Path (or “Rec Path” for short) is a fantastic option, with views of big red barns and ski trails on Mount Mansfield in the background. The flat, 5.3-mile paved trail begins at the Stowe Community Church in the historic Village and ends at a cute covered bridge – perfect for picture-taking! Many of the scenic shots I take are from this lovely path.
Just off the Rec Path is the Percy Farm Corn Maze, a sure winner for the whole family. Located on the Mountain Road (or Route 108), they have a fun winding maze that runs through a beautiful corn field, with Mt. Mansfield as a backdrop. You’ll quickly see how easy it is to get into the adventure of being “lost” in a maze!
Stowe Pinnacle is my absolute favorite hike in the area. There are plenty of other great hikes, but this one is the “biggest bang for your buck.” After about a 45-minute hike, breathtaking views of the Stowe valley and beyond await you at the top. Take in the spectacular display of color looking back towards Mount Mansfield. Bring a pack to carry your kids up, or let them try around the age of five.
Festive Food:
If it’s a nice fall evening you will likely find our family camped out at the von Trapp Brewery & Bierhall enjoying cocktail hour on the patio while the boys run around playing by the pond. The views and sun exposure of the patio cannot be beat, especially as the leaves start to show their beautiful colors. This spot is super family-friendly, and their menu has something for everyone. Once the weather turns cooler and cozy dinners are in order, Harrison’s Restaurant is where my husband and I go when we have a night away from the kids. Their amazing menu of comfort food and delicious classic dishes never disappoints. Calling ahead for reservations is also a bonus since our busy lil’ family needs to plan for a sitter.
Seasonal Shopping:
When I can manage to escape for a little retail therapy, I visit The Country Store on Main, a cheery store with the best collection of home wears, gifts and artisan items. This store, which opened the same day my son was born, is our go-to whenever we need anything for our house. If you’re looking for a fab selection of denim, jewelry and women’s apparel, Green Envy is a super cute shop. For my preppy girls, Pink Colony is your one-stop shop. They have an amazing assortment of Lily Pulitzer for women and girls.
About the Author:
As a working mother of two lil’ boys, Megan Liljedahl is experienced in the work/life juggle and packing as much fun as possible into every weekend. After a decade in Boston at New Balance, she moved back to Vermont where she grew up. Now she leads a portfolio of coffee partners at Keurig and spends her spare time sharing her adventures in the town of Stowe, Vermont where she lives. If you want to follow more of her fun Vermont adventures, give her growing Instagram account a follow @megliljedahl or stop on over to her Lil’ Vermont Adventures Blog to say hello!