Moss Glen Falls

A short drive from Stowe’s historic village, Moss Glen Falls is the tallest waterfall in the state of Vermont, cascading 85 feet. The hike to Moss Glen Falls is popular due its short and easy terrain, easily manageable for anyone who may not consider themselves an advanced hiker. For most people, the highlight of this hike is the waterfall itself, which is only about a quarter-mile (approximately 10 minutes) from the trail head, but guests can keep going past the falls for a longer outing. Hikers can view and photograph the falls from both the base and a higher vantage point.

 

Bingham Falls

Located directly off Mountain Road (Route 108), Bingham Falls is another popular hike leading to spectacular waterfall scenes. The hike has quickly become one of the most popular waterfall hikes in Vermont due to its easy access, impressive geology and stunning scenery ideal for photography. The hike itself is only about a quarter-mile down to the falls, but it is steeper at the bottom and often can be wet and slippery, which is why it is categorized as a more moderate level despite it’s short distance. Proper hiking shoes with good tread are highly recommended.

 

Sterling Falls Gorge

Located at the end of Sterling Gorge Road, Sterling Falls Gorge is a short but informative, scenic hike around the outer limits of a beautiful gorge in the Sterling Valley. Although the falls are no greater than a few yards tall, the gorge consists of multiple waterfalls, cascade sets and pools. This area tends to be significantly less crowded than other waterfalls in Stowe and includes many signs describing the history, geology and lore about the gorge. Extensive hiking trails branch off nearby Sterling Falls Gorge, winding all throughout the Sterling Forest.

Browse all of the hiking trails throughout the area, from beginner to expert, or download the Go Stowe Hiking Guide for more information on each trail. Start planning your next trip to Stowe or browse accommodations here.

The post Three Waterfalls You Must Visit This Summer appeared first on Stowe.

 

ZIPLINING

Experience the Green Mountains from a totally different perspective. Soar among the tree tops with ArborTrek Canopy Adventures in Smugglers’ Notch. Ziplining offers a thrilling adventure that allows participants to soar through the air and observe Vermont’s breathtaking scenery from up above. Named one of the “10 Best Zipline Courses in the USA” by USA Today, ArborTrek offers a variety of different tours and packages, including both ziplining and climbing adventures. Zipline and treetop adventure tours range from serene to extreme.

 

FISHING

Fishing is year-round activity in Vermont with ice fishing during the winter months and then on the water from spring through the fall. The diversity of Vermont’s waterways allows local guides to offer wade, bank, canoe and motorboat fishing, which means there are plenty of ways to try your hand at fishing in Stowe. If you’re looking for a guide to the best local spots, Stowe is home to a number of experienced fishing instructors. Catamount Fishing Adventures and The Fly Rod Shop both offer a variety of clinics, lessons and programs to help introduce you to the basics and beyond.

 

MOUNTAIN BIKING

Stowe features an extensive mountain biking trail network of well-maintained, interconnected trails that offer fun and challenging terrain, suitable for all ability levels. Named a “mountain biking mecca” by The Boston Globe, mountain biking will open a whole new realm of sight seeing to the wonders of Stowe’s scenic trails. The majority of Stowe’s mountain bike trails are free and open for public use, thanks to the ongoing efforts of the Stowe Trails Partnership (STP). There are several bike shops that offer rentals if you are trying it out and guided tours are available through 4 Points VT.

 

DISC GOLF

Disc golf is a sport that combines elements of traditional golf with the frisbee. Instead of hitting a ball into a hole with a club, players throw a disc from a tee area toward a target. Whether a beginner or an expert, Stowe welcomes disc golfers of all levels and ability to enjoy stunning, scenic courses. Stowe is home to Smugglers’ Notch Disc Golf & Outdoor Center, rated as one of the top 5 disc golf destinations in the world, as well as Trapp Family Lodge’s 18-hole disc golf course. Both offer rentals and equipment.

 

STAND UP PADDLEBOARDING

If you typically head out on the water in a canoe or a kayak, next time test your balance on a stand up paddleboard (SUP). It is common for newcomers to begin by kneeling on the paddleboard to get a feel for balance and stability. Once you feel comfortable, gradually stand up, keeping your knees slightly bent and your feet shoulder-width apart for better stability. As you gain confidence and momentum, you’ll find yourself gliding effortlessly across the water’s surface, taking in the sights and sounds of your surroundings. Rentals are available at multiple locations.

When you are planning your trip to Stowe, it is always recommended to book reservations for tours, activities and equipment rentals in advance when possible.

The post Try Something New When You’re in Stowe appeared first on Stowe.

What is a total solar eclipse?

A total solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and earth, completely blocking the face of the sun. Totality is the maximum phase of a total solar eclipse, during which the Moon’s disk completely covers the Sun’s face. Totality can last anywhere from 10 seconds to seven and half minutes. The last total solar eclipse viewable from Vermont occurred in 1932 and you won’t see the next one in the Green Mountain State until 2106.

Where can I see the eclipse?

The 2024 Great North American Solar Eclipse will plunge a 124-mile-wide path stretching from Mexico to Canada into night-like darkness. Stowe falls in the part of Northern Vermont that will experience the rare marvel of totality. There are lots of places and events taking place in Stowe where you will be able to view the total solar eclipse. Stowe Mountain Resort will have various points for viewing and is offering free parking open to the public that day. Various points along the Stowe Recreation Path will offer a good place to set up and view the spectacle. Depending on weather conditions leading up to the day of the eclipse, trails and grassy areas could be soft, muddy and not open for recreation so we are recommending guests utilize paved areas for their solar viewing.

What time is the eclipse?

The eclipse will begin in the Stowe area at 2:14 p.m. ET with totality occurring from 3:27 to 3:39 p.m. ET. The entirety of the eclipse will conclude at 4:37 p.m. ET. Please allow time to get to and from your desired viewing destination safely. 

Do I need anything specific in order to view the eclipse?

Special eclipse glasses need to be purchased and worn while solar viewing. It is not safe to look directly at the Sun without specialized eye protection specifically for solar viewing. Viewing any part of the bright sun through a camera lens, binoculars or a telescope without a special-purpose solar filter secured over the front of the optics will instantly cause severe eye injury.

What will the weather be like in Vermont in April?

Vermont in April can welcome all different weather conditions and temperatures. Visitors should come prepared with all types of warm layers, waterproof footwear, etc. Always remember that temperatures drop and weather conditions can change more frequently at higher elevations so plan accordingly.

The 2024 Total Solar Eclipse falls during the time of year where winter is coming to an end and we begin the transition to spring. Often referred to as “mud season,” the ground becomes soft from thawing temperatures and runoff snowmelt. Not all areas of our destination will be viable places for your viewership depending on muddy conditions.

What people can see during a total solar eclipse depends on the weather and the location from which they view it. Clear skies are ideal to have a full eclipse experience, with a clear view of the sun and moon. However, the eerie daytime darkness associated with eclipses is still noticeable with some cloud cover.

Will there be a lot of people in Stowe at that time?

While April is a traditionally quieter time of year, Stowe is expecting high volumes of people for the solar eclipse. The state is estimating anywhere between 50,000 and 100,000 people flocking to Vermont for this astronomical event. Due to this increase of expected guests, those visiting Stowe should also anticipate an increase in traffic and plan accordingly. Please be respectful as everyone is navigating this busy time.

Where can I stay? Is lodging still available?

There is very limited lodging still available in Stowe, so book now if you need to secure accommodations. Inventory may change as we get closer to the event so check back frequently to see what is available. If your plans are subject to change at all, be sure to read and understand the property’s cancellation policy to avoid any incurring fees.

What is there to do in Stowe other than view the solar eclipse?

Stowe offers a diverse menu of activities and attractions all year round. In addition to special eclipse events happening around town, there are a wide variety of both indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy in Stowe this time of year. Stowe Mountain Resort will still be open for spring skiing and riding. Spring is often referred to as Vermont’s sweetest season as it marks the start of maple sugaring season. Guests can take in the sugaring process and take home their favorite sweet, maple treats at one of our local sugar houses. While not all trails are open during this time of year pending weather, road biking and rail trails are popular amongst cycling enthusiasts. Vermont is home to more craft breweries per capita than any other state.

The post Total Solar Eclipse FAQ appeared first on Stowe.

Here are 40 things to do in Stowe in honor of 40 years of National Travel and Tourism Week:

1. Visit Stowe’s historic downtown village, featuring Vermont’s tallest church steeple on the Stowe Community Church.
2. Take a gondola ride to the top of Mt. Mansfield, Vermont’s tallest peak.
3. Go for a mountain bike ride on one of Stowe’s many trails – beginners welcome!
4. Explore town on the Stowe Recreation Path – a 5.3-mile paved public path that’s free to use, easy to access and open all year round.
5. Take a scenic drive up the Auto Toll Road or through Smugglers’ Notch – perfect for summer and fall.
6. Savor all your favorite flavors at the Ben & Jerry’s Factory.
7. Head out on the water to paddleboard, canoe or kayak at the Waterbury Reservoir – Rentals available on-site!
8. Grab a craft beverage from some of the best breweries, cideries and wineries in Vermont, or plan a full craft brewery tour.
9. Plan a visit to Stowe in all four seasons to experience the beautiful, changing scenery and the best the area has to offer in summer, fall, winter and spring.
10. Take a hike! Stowe features more than 45 hiking trails with a variety of easy, moderate and expert trail options for all ages and abilities—from Stowe Pinnacle and Sterling Pond to the famously steep Hellbrook Trail.
11. Soar your way through the treetops with the ultimate zipline adventure by ArborTrek Canopy Adventures.
12. Experience the Best of Route 100 when you take a drive on the historic Green Mountain Byway.
13. Chase waterfalls while taking a small hike to Bingham Falls or Moss Glen Falls, Vermont’s tallest waterfall.
14. Enjoy a fresh cider donut at Cold Hollow Cider Mill.
15. Visit the haunted Emily’s Bridge, or Gold Brook Covered Bridge, which is one of three classic Vermont covered bridges in the area.
16. Venture up to see views at Trapp Family Lodge, originally built in 1950 and currently run by the family that inspired The Sound of Music.
17. Take an E-bike tour of the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail.
18. Visit a maple sugarhouse for some classic Vermont maple treats.
19. Dine with spectacular panoramic views at the Cliff House Restaurant situated at the top of Mt. Mansfield.
20. Explore one of Stowe’s picturesque swimming holes.
21. See a show at the Spruce Peak Performing Arts Center.
22. Take in one of Vermont’s incredible sunsets in the mountains or in town.
23. Schedule a guided tour to experience the area from our friendly, local guides.
24. Relax and unwind at one of Stowe’s spa and wellness centers.
25. Go on a scenic fall foliage tour.
26. Take part in a road race in the summer and fall months.
27. Enjoy a round of bowling at Stowe Bowl or mini golf at Stowe Golf Park.
28. Immerse yourself in the arts community by visiting museums and galleries throughout the area.
29. Live like a local and visit the Stowe Farmer’s Market.
30. Pop into the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum to see what fun exhibits they have on display.
31. Experience Stowe, At Night, Lantern Tours for a nighttime adventure of ghost stories and history.
32. Wander through the Percy Farm Corn Maze for the perfect fall activity.
33. Take a snowmobile tour of the backcountry during the snowy winter months.
34. Soak in live music at the Music in the Meadow outdoor concert series.
35. Find the perfect gift to take home at one of our unique, local shops.
36. During your winter visit, experience the ultimate winter wonderland at the outdoor skating rink at Spruce Peak Village.
37. Plan to visit Little River Hotglass Studio & Gallery for the finest crafted blown glass or reserve a session to create your own.
38. Learn to fish from one of our local experts.
39. Plan a food tour to experience as many creatively delicious culinary options in the area.
40. Play a round of disc golf at Trapp Family Lodge or Smugglers’ Notch Disc Golf & Outdoor Center.

Feature image courtesy of Mark Vandenberg.

The post Top 40 Things to Do in Stowe appeared first on Stowe.

Downtown Stowe

Taking a stroll down Main Street in Stowe’s historic village provides an excellent opportunity to window shop and take in the fall foliage colors.

Stowe Hollow

Stowe’s red Grandview barn in the Stowe Hollow truly pops against a backdrop of a vibrant hillside, nestled on land conserved by Stowe Land Trust. Surely an Instagrammable, picture-worthy view. Stop by Stowe’s haunted Gold Brook Covered Bridge along the way.

Stowe Pinnacle

Hiking is a popular way to get outside and enjoy all the scenic views Stowe has to offer. Climbing Stowe Pinnacle via Pinnacle Meadows is worth the effort to see the variety of fall colors.

Smugglers’ Notch

Taking a scenic drive is a fantastic way to explore the area and see the incredible foliage. Whether you drive or hike, the views of Smugglers’ Notch certainly never disappoint. 

Mount Mansfield

Looking for an easy-going way to view Stowe’s fall foliage? A gondola ride up Mt. Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, is a relaxing way to take in all the colors.

If you missed out on Stowe’s legendary fall foliage this year, not to worry. Now is actually the best time to start planning for next fall to secure your stay in our four-time USA Today 10 Best Destination for Fall Foliage!

All photos by Sharon Harper.

The post Reminiscing About Stowe’s Fall Foliage Season appeared first on Stowe.

1. Become a professional leaf peeper by taking one of our many scenic drives, including the famous Smugglers’ Notch.

2. Hunt for Emily’s “ghost” at Stowe’s haunted Gold Brook Covered Bridge, the oldest Howe Truss bridge in Vermont.

3. Enjoy a fresh cider donut and fresh pressed apple cider at Cold Hollow Cider Mill.

4. Savor a sweet harvest treat while trying Maple Walnut ice cream at Ben & Jerry’s.

5. Have fun getting lost and finding your way through the Percy Farm Corn Maze with a view of Mt. Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak, f you can find the bridge!

6. Grab take-out from a local restaurant and enjoy a picnic surrounded by beautiful fall colors and mountain views.

7. Take the Auto Toll Road or Gondola Skyride up the mountain for some panoramic fall foliage views (through mid-October).

8. Walk up to Sunset Rock for a panoramic vista to Mt. Mansfield.

9. Play in some leaves while enjoying a leisurely walk or bike ride along the Stowe Recreation Path or Lamoille Valley Rail Trail.

10. Get an early start on Christmas shopping as you browse through one of our many retail shops or local artisan booths at the Stowe Farmers’ Market every Sunday through Indigenous Peoples’ Day weekend.

11. Search for beavers—and moose!—on the ADA-accessible Barnes Camp Boardwalk while enjoying a stunning view of Smugglers’ Notch.

12. Shop and stroll Stowe’s historic downtown Main Street or on Mountain Road and take a piece of Stowe home with you.

13. Soar above the foliage while ziplining with ArborTrek Canopy Tours (reservations required).

14. Definitely go chasing waterfalls while taking a short hike to Moss Glen Falls, Vermont’s tallest waterfall.

15. Learn all about Stowe’s haunted history while on a Stowe, at Night, Lantern Tour (various dates through October; reservations required).

16. Attend one of Stowe’s many festive fall events throughout the season.

17. Take a hike! Experience scenic vista views from more than 45 hiking trails in the area for all abilities, from gentle woods walks and modest mountain trails, to challenging rugged terrain.

18. Ride through the colorful forest trees on mountain biking adventure.

Need assistance planning the perfect fall getaway? We have resources to help! The Go Stowe Foliage Finder lets you know where the colors are most magnificent during your stay and even links up to our scenic drives guide. You can also check out our foliage FAQs for insights on the best times to plan your fall trip. And once you’re in town, be sure to share your adventures on social media tagging @gostowe and using #gostowe!

The post 18 Bucket List Items to Check Off Only in Stowe this Fall appeared first on Stowe.

Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and head to the [Green] mountains! Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway with a loved one or looking for summer fun with friends, Stowe has you covered with one-of-a-kind unforgettable offerings.

• HIKING. Ranging from easy to difficult, Stowe is home to more than 45 hiking trails. Take a pre-dinner stroll at Sunset Rock or enjoy a post-hike beverage after conquering a trail on Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak.
  • Insider Tip: Check out the Go Stowe Hiking Guide for area hikes. 
• BIKING. With 50+ miles of single track mountain biking trails, Stowe is an amazing place to get out on a mountain bike. If you are a beginner you can take a lesson or guided ride while experts can venture out on expert trails. If you are looking for a more leisurely activity give road or e-biking a try. Rentals are available at many shops in town.
  • Insider Tip: take a ride on the Stowe Recreation Path and stops for food and drinks at local hotspots along the way. 
• PADDLING. Head to Waterbury Reservoir for a day or afternoon on the water. Paddleboard, kayak or canoe while looking up to blue skies and Green Mountain views. 
  • Insider Tip: pack a lunch with snacks from local shops and eat it while taking a break on Elephants Rock in the reservoir.
• ZIP LINING. Spice up your trip with a zipline ride either above the trees. Soar above the mountains at the world’s fastest zipline at Stowe Mountain Resort or be one with the trees and at ArborTrek’s zipline course in the forest.
  • Insider Tip: After ziplining explore the Smugglers’ Notch area with a scenic drive, hike or stop at the local disc golf course.
• CRAFT BEVERAGE TASTINGS. Stowe is home to a variety of world-class craft beverage producers, don’t miss out! From fresh pressed ciders at Cold Hollow and Stowe Cider, beer at Idletyme and von Trapp Brewing to wine at Ellison Estate Vineyard there are so many ways to taste the flavors of Stowe. 
  • Insider Tip: Want to hit all the craft beverage spots in one shot? Take a safe guided tour with 4 Points Brewery Tours. 
• SWIMMING HOLES. Cool off after your busy day of hiking and biking (or dining and drinking) in a picturesque Stowe swimming hole in. Beat the crowds and the heat all at once while also admiring the one-of-a-kind views.
• SPAS. Recharge from your outdoor activities or just spend time relaxing on your summer vacation at an award-winning spa in Stowe. With unique treatments that feature local products, Stowe’s spas are available for all your wellness needs. 
  • Insider Tip: Be sure to check our activity specials while planning your trip for spa specials. 
• OUTDOOR DINING. Dine with a view in Stowe! You can spend the entire day outside if you’d like, or you can retreat to a cool and welcoming atmosphere in our restaurants and eateries. Grab a bite to eat and continue to take in the views and brews during your stay.
• EVENTS. With events happening daily, enhance your stay in Stowe by attending a local event and experience Stowe in a new way. From live music, craft beverage tastings, yoga and fitness classes, races, car shows and markets there is something for every type of traveler.
  

Pack in as much (or as little) adventure as you can this summer in Stowe. Whatever you choose, be sure to share your Stowe story with us on social media using hashtag #gostowe and #stowement. Find additional trip planning ideas, discover all of the summer activities available and check out current deals while getting ready to book your summer getaway only in Stowe.

Photos courtesy of: Mark Vandenberg and Stowe Mountain Resort.

The post Summer Adventure Guide for Couples and Friends appeared first on Stowe.

There are a variety of deciduous trees dominated by sugar maples, American beech and red oak, and many produce a pigment known as Anthocyanin that results in brilliant reds and purples.  The right temperature, rainfall zone and altitude changes produce the most brilliant colors. There’s ample amount of forested land and plenty of natural beauty to blend in with the fall foliage including mountain passes, waterfalls, ponds and lakes.  The Green Mountains provide scenic overlooks into farms, villages, lakes and ponds that are just the right height to make for great landscape shots. You’ll find perfect complementary elements including red barns, white churches, covered bridges and iconic farms.

For these reasons, and more, my favorite place in northern Vermont is the town of Stowe, which has a variety of elevation changes for superior views as well as other natural landscape features such as mountains, lakes, ponds and streams. Along with excellent accommodations and restaurant choices in the area, Stowe, Vermont is also a great springboard for shooting other locations in northeastern and central Vermont, including nearby Waterbury and the Mad River Valley, that you can tour for the day and capture a large variety of locations in one fell swoop.

If photography is a passion or you simply want to capture the perfect photos of your trip, check out my blog on Tips for Shooting Fall Foliage in Stowe, Vermont. If you’re really into photographing across New England, find the full guide to the region on my website, www.davelongphoto.com.

About the author:
David Long lives in Shrewsbury, MA and speaks at camera clubs throughout New England on different subjects in landscape photography. He has taught landscape photography throughout New England for the last ten years, and has published eight e-books (available on his website) for self-guided tours of New England. Follow him on Instagram at @davidlong3653.

Photos courtesy of David Long.

The post Fall Foliage in Northern Vermont: A Photographer’s Dream appeared first on Stowe.

Stowe Area

Paddling in the Stowe area is a memorable adventure with excellent options nearby. Shop for or rent assorted paddlecraft in Stowe, and follow a certified local guide who can instruct your paddle stroke and show you the hidden gem. There are river trips for everyone from beginners to seasoned experts. The nearby Lamoille and Winooski rivers wind through farms and forested countryside. The Waterbury Reservoir can be accessed several ways including Cotton Brook in Stowe. Beautiful Lake Elmore, about 20 minutes north of Stowe, also has beach access and campgrounds nearby. Even further north, the pristine and undeveloped Green River Reservoir is another picturesque spot in the area. These areas are perfect for swimming and fishing.

Waterbury

With “Water” in its name, here are many ways to experience the water in Waterbury. Whether you’re interested in cruising around on a motorboat or paddling around in your canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddle board, you can do it all at the Waterbury Reservoir! The reservoir was created by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and surrounds a 90-acre peninsula, on which the Waterbury Center State Park is located. Along another side of the reservoir sits the Little River State Park with hiking and mountain biking trail access for those who like dual adventures in a day. Both parks have launches for motorboats and paddlers to enter the water. Waterbury Center State Park also offers lessons and rentals for canoes, kayaks and SUPs through Umiak Outdoor Outfitters’ waterfront operation.

Mad River Valley

In the Mad River Valley, paddle through the mountains, under covered bridges and by pass swimming holes. This area gets its name from the Mad River that flows through the area towns. The Mad River allows for 36 miles of scenic kayaking and canoeing experience through the small towns and villages that make up the valley. For those interested in flat water paddling, Blueberry Lake is a spot where visitors can stand-up paddleboard, kayak and canoe with a beautiful mountain backdrop.

Learn about the best of Route 100 in Vermont with more paddling in Stowe, Waterbury and the Mad River Valley. For information on Stowe paddling, paddle rentals and guided tours, visit our Stowe paddling information page. 

Images courtesy of: Umiak Outdoor Outfitters/@tyke_dm, Go Stowe

The post The Best Paddling Along Route 100 in Northern Vermont appeared first on Stowe.

Stowe 

With Stowe’s famous Green Mountain views, it is no secret that hiking is one of the most popular summertime activities. With a well-maintained trail system, stunning views and a variety of hikes for all skill-levels, a hike in Stowe is the way to go. 

Sterling Pond: This gorgeous, moderate hike delivers you to the incredibly blue water of Vermont’s highest elevation trout pond. At 2.3 miles round trip, this is an excellent half-day hike to do with kids. Another intermediate option just outside of Stowe village is the Stowe Pinnacle, which offers great views of Mt. Mansfield and Camel’s Hump that are easily accessible after a short walk to a rock summit. 

Stowe Pinnacle: The Stowe Pinnacle trail is wooded with a short, steady climb to a rock summit with views of Mt. Mansfield, Camel’s Hump, the Worcester Range and the Sterling Range. The hike is about three miles round-trip from the parking area on Upper Hollow Road, and a little shorter from the Pinnacle Meadows trailhead. The views at Stowe Pinnacle are phenomenal both in the summer and in the fall during foliage season. 

Mt. Mansfield: One of the most challenging mountains to climb in Stowe and all of Vermont, Mt. Mansfield is the state’s highest peak. Though there are several ways to summit, Vermont’s historic Long Trail (LT) is one of the most popular. Built in 1910 by the Green Mountain Club, the LT is the United States’ oldest footpath and runs 273 miles between the Massachusetts and Canadian borders. Starting at the trailhead on VT Route 108, pass Taft Lodge, the oldest shelter on the LT, on your way to the Chin. Continue over the Chin and hang a left onto the Profanity Trail, which will loop back around for the rocky descent. It’s a long, rugged trip, so get an early start and bring plenty of food and water for the full 4.9-mile loop.

Mad River Valley

With scenic walks and rambles and full-day climbs, the Mad River Valley is home to a range of hikes for beginners and experts alike. As you explore the area trails, the valley’s love of the outdoors and commitment to stewardship of land and recreational opportunities for current and future generations will be evident.

Mill Brook Path: For a more leisurely hike, the Mill Brook Path offers a journey through a hemlock forest and deer yard. This 3.9-mile hike includes moderately steep hills and wooden footbridges with a classic Vermont backdrop. The Mill Brook Path also connects to other local trails such as the Chase Brook Town Forest trails and the Catamount Trail for additional adventure.

Burnt Rock Mountain: Burnt Rock Mountain is a popular hiker’s destination in the Mad River Valley as it is known to have incredible views at the summit. Be ready to cross some streams and conquer a rock scramble during the 4.9-mile in-and-out hike.

Mt. Abraham: Mt. Abraham from Lincoln Gap is a more challenging hike; however, at more than 4,000 feet of elevation the views at the top are worth it. There is a 360-degree view from the summit that spans the Adirondacks, Lake Champlain and the White Mountains. This is a 5.7-mile round-trip hike that can take approximately four hours to complete.

Waterbury

Located right off Interstate 89, Waterbury is a hilly town tucked between the Mad River Valley and Stowe. From historic walks in the woods to climbs with 360-degree views, Waterbury is a great stop along your Route 100 hiking adventure. 

Stevenson Brook Trail at Little River State Park: The 4.8-mile Stevenson Brook Trail goes through the Little River State Park and connects to several other trails. Once the site of a thriving settlement, you’ll spot the evidence of hillside homesteads, sugarhouses, barns, sawmills and a cemetery, in the foundations, clearings and stone left behind. This is an easy to moderate hike for a half-day excursion.

Mount Hunger via Waterbury Trail: Approach central Vermont’s Mount Hunger from the west on the 4.4-mile Waterbury Trail. Cool off in the waterfall before you leave the woodland and get ready for an exhilarating rock scramble near the peak. At the top, you are rewarded with 360-degree views of Mount Mansfield, Waterbury Reservoir and Groton State Forest.

Camel’s Hump via Monroe Trail: Known for its distinct silhouette that some say resembles a couching lion, Vermont’s third highest peak offers breathtaking views of the Green Mountains and New York’s Adirondacks. Camel’s Hump is one of only three Vermont mountains with alpine tundra similar to growth from 1,000 miles to the north. The Monroe Trail winds up the eastern flank of the mountain. Look for the cemetery in which namesake Will Monroe is buried, and a plaque dedicated to the crew of a B-24 Liberator bomber which crashed there in mountain fog in 1944. This trail is more difficult at 6.8 miles long.

Learn about the best of Route 100 in Vermont with more hiking in Stowe, Waterbury and the Mad River Valley. Stop by the Green Mountain Club for expert hiking advice and learn about supporting their work to maintain trails and more. For hiking in Stowe, view the Go Stowe Hiking Guide.

Images courtesy of: Go Stowe, Mark Vandenberg/@stowebeautiful and Discover Waterbury. Video courtesy of Mark Vandenberg/@stowebeautiful.

The post The Best Hiking in Vermont Along Route 100 appeared first on Stowe.