Moss Glen Falls

 

The Moss Glen Falls hike is a short, scenic hike that leads to Vermont’s tallest waterfall. The trailhead is only about a five-minute drive from Stowe’s historic village. From route 100 North, bear right onto Randolph Road and the first road on the right is Moss Glen Falls Road. Follow that about a half mile to the trailhead area on the left. The highlight of the hike, the falls themselves, are just a short 10-minute walk (about a quarter of a mile) from the parking area, very manageable for families. Hikers have the option to extend their journey by following the trail up the steeper climb and past the overlook of the falls if you’re looking for a longer outing.

Sunset Rock

 

Located within walking distance of Main Street, the Sunset Rock trail is an easy, one-mile outing that leads to a scenic overlook of the downtown area. The short distance, easy terrain and proximity to the village makes this a popular spot for a picnic with a view. The best way to visit Sunset Rock is to walk from the historic village via the Sunset Rock Trail located at the end of Sunset Street. Visitor parking is prohibited at the end of Sunset Street, but ample parking is available behind the Stowe Community Church at the beginning of the Stowe Recreation Path and along Main Street. Follow the trail for about 200 yards to reach the scenic view of Main Street. The trail continues to climb for another quarter-mile to the Upper Overlook with a spectacular view of Mount Mansfield to the west. For a shorter hike with less elevation gain, park at the Sunset Rock parking area on Taber Hill Road.

Kirchner Woods

 

A casual multi-use trail system, Kirchner Woods is an easy, mostly-flat trail that is perfect for families as the distance ranges from just over a half-mile to a maximum two and a half miles. The trails are under the cover of magnificent Sugar Maple trees, making it the perfect destination for leaf-peeping during the fall. This trail system is used primarily by hikers and trail runners, but is open to mountain biking (lower section only) and cross-country skiers and snowshoers (on designated trails) as well. From the historic village, follow School Street to Taber Hill Road and you will see the Kirchner Woods parking lot on the left after about one and half miles. From the parking area, hikers will start out on Jerry’s trail, a wide path of crushed rock which extends a quarter-mile, ending at an old Sugar House which was in active production until the early 1990’s.

Sterling Falls Gorge

 

Just a half-mile in distance, Sterling Falls Gorge is a short but informative, scenic hike around a beautiful gorge in Stowe’s Sterling Valley. The short distance and easy terrain make it another perfect option for families or those looking for an easier option. The trail consists of small, cascading falls and has many signs describing the history, geology and lore about the gorge. Although the falls are no greater than a few yards tall, the area tends to be significantly less crowded than other waterfalls in Stowe. As you walk the interpretive trail loop, be mindful of areas roped off for your safety.

Bingham Falls

 

While the Bingham Falls hike is classified as a more moderate trail, its short distance and primarily easy terrain makes it a suitable option for families, especially for travelers with older children. The hike itself is only about a quarter-mile down to the falls, but it is steeper at the bottom and is often wet and slippery, which ranks it moderate. A pair of proper hiking shoes with good tread are highly recommended. There are also many areas on the trail that are accessible via easier terrain that offer aquatic views without descending all the way down to the falls. The trail is located off of Mountain Road (Route 108). From the historic village, take Route 108 north about six and a half miles. After you pass the entrance to the Auto Toll Road at Stowe Mountain Resort, the trailhead is located about a half mile beyond that. Park in one of the dirt pull-offs located on both sides of the road. Be careful crossing the street and getting ready for your hike in these parking areas.

You can browse more hiking trails, from easy to advanced, around the Stowe area. Start planning your next adventure and browse activities and accommodations for your next family trip to the Green Mountains.

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Burlington

Roughly 45 minutes away, Burlington is anchored along the shores of Lake Champlain and offers incredible waterfront views. The Burlington waterfront and Church Street Marketplace are popular areas for guests to explore. Burlington is also home to many vibrant events, including live music and concerts. Discover all this “big little town” has to offer in an easy day trip from Stowe.

Montpelier

The capital of Vermont sits just about 30 minutes south of Stowe. Walk around the grounds at the capitol building and explore the wonderful shops and restaurants that sit on and off Main Street and State Street. Hubbard Park is a popular outdoor space to explore, with over seven miles of hiking trails and numerous picnic areas as well.

Waterbury & Mad River Valley

The scenic Green Mountain Byway (Route 100) is one of the most popular scenic drives in the state. The communities of Stowe, Waterbury, and the Mad River Valley are linked by the legendary Vermont Route 100. This unique stretch of Route 100 offers incredible views, outdoor recreation, unique shops and restaurants to offer the full Vermont experience. Waterbury is about 15 minutes from Stowe and it’s about another 20 minutes to the Mad River Valley area.

Woodstock & Quechee

The furthest of these destinations, Woodstock is a little over an hour away from Stowe. Woodstock is often regarded as quintessential, quaint Vermont with a scenic downtown paired with longstanding heritage and three classic covered bridges. The nearby village of Quechee is home to the Quechee Gorge, the deepest gorge in Vermont and a popular tourist attraction.

There are plenty of other beautiful Vermont locations further North and South of Stowe for you to explore, but these are some of the closest. Start planning your trip to Stowe and browse accommodations for your Vermont home base.

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When you exit off of I-89, Cold Hollow Cider Mill (3600 Waterbury-Stowe Road) should be the first stop in your craft beverage tour for some hard cider tasting. Located right off of Route 100, sample different seasonal hard ciders and pair it with a fresh cider donut or other homemade goodies. Non-alcoholic cider is also available and just as delicious.

Continuing North on Route 100, you will make your way into Stowe’s historic downtown. Get out and stretch your legs then pop in to Cork Natural Wine Shop (35 School Street) for a glass of wine within walking distance to the iconic Stowe Community Church. Ellison Estate Vineyard (57 Mountain Road), a family run winery with locations in Grand Isle and Stowe, recently opened a new tasting room in the heart of downtown Stowe, near the intersection of Route 100 and Route 108.

After you’ve explored Main Street, follow Mountain Road (Route 108) to Stowe Cider (17 Town Farm Lane) for a flight of hard cider. Try some of their staple headliners or experiment with one of their rotating seasonal flavors. Stowe Cider is a popular venue for live music so be sure to mark your calendar for any upcoming shows.

A little further up Mountain Road, Idletyme Tap & Tavern is a local favorite, featuring quality craft beer brewed on site. Located right off the Stowe Recreation Path, Idletyme is the perfect spot to grab a pint and a bite to eat or try their staple ‘Brewski Sampler’ to experience a variety of flavors.

Up next, The Alchemist Brewery (100 Cottage Club Road) is close by on Cottage Club Road, which pops up just after where Mountain Road splits with Luce Hill Road. Visit the Beer Cafe year round or enjoy the seasonal Beer Garden May through October. Brewery tours are available, but require a reservation.

Backtracking to Luce Hill Road, follow the signs all the way up the hill to the von Trapp Brewing Bierhall (1333 Luce Hill Road) to experience “a little of Austria, a lot of Vermont.” Whether you prefer your beer light or heavy, hoppy or sweet, smooth or bold, you’ll find something to satisfy your palate at von Trapp Brewing.

 

GUIDED TOURS

While some of these brew houses offer on-site tours, another way to customize your craft beverage tour of the area is through guided tours like Savor Vermont and 4 Points VT: Brewery Tours. Experience the best local brew spots from friendly, knowledgeable locals. No need to worry about driving, because they have got you covered.

The post Pouring Perfection: Explore Stowe’s Craft Beverage Scene, One Sip at a Time appeared first on Stowe.

Winter

Stowe is best known for being the quintessential New England mountain town with some of the best skiing and riding in the east. In addition to alpine excellence, visitors can experience a wide variety of outdoor recreation, including skating, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, fat biking, dog sledding and more. Stowe is home to the first cross-country ski center in the country at Trapp Family Lodge.

If the snow and the cold are not your preference, enjoy the mountain town lifestyle from the comfort of the indoors. Cozy up by the fire for après ski libation and relaxation. Spend some time popping in and out of local shops, museums and galleries in our historic downtown area. After all the excitement, unwind with a relaxing visit to one of our world class spas or wellness centers.

Spring

Historically one of the more quieter times of year, spring is the perfect time to visit Stowe if you’re looking to avoid the crowds. Often referred to as Vermont’s sweetest season, spring temperatures mark the start of maple sugaring season. Guests can experience one of Vermont’s greatest traditions as they watch maple syrup being made by some of the best local sugar houses.

Spring skiing and riding, as well as other outdoor recreation are still available depending on the weather and time of year you visit. While not all trails are open this time of year depending on conditions, road biking and rail trails are popular amongst cycling enthusiasts. Craft beverage tastings and tours are popular year round, but spring is a particularly great time to brewery hop.

Bonus Tip

The weather in New England is ever changing, but the transition between winter and spring brings added stipulations. 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 desired activities depending on the conditions. Plan ahead and check trail closures and conditions before heading out. In the event of muddy conditions, stick to hard surfaces or paved areas for outdoor recreation.

Summer

The Green Mountains come alive under the Vermont summer sun. Summertime in Stowe is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise, with activities to keep you busy from dawn until dusk. Explore world class hiking and mountain biking trails and take in the beautiful summer scenery. Visit Vermont’s tallest waterfall or spend your days paddling on our beautiful lakes and rivers.

Nothing says summer like outdoor dining and our local restaurants are serving up great food and even better views. Indulge with a true Vermont maple creemee or grab your favorite flavor at the Ben & Jerry’s Factory. Always be prepared for all types of New England weather even in the summertime. Check the forecast in advance and plan your wardrobe and your itinerary accordingly!

Fall

The most colorful time of year to visit Stowe, where the lush green scenery transforms to a vast display of vibrant brilliance. Stowe is without a doubt a popular New England destination for viewing fall foliage, making it one of the busier times of year. Home to some of the best scenic drives and stunning vistas, Stowe is widely known as fall’s color capital.

With extraordinary events, endless outdoor activities and tasty fall treats, there are so many ways to enjoy your cozy, fall getaway in Stowe. Peak foliage is typically anywhere from the last week of September to the first two weeks of October. If peak foliage times are sold out or out of your price point, the last two weeks of October are just as beautiful and are a quieter time to experience fall foliage.

If you are planning a trip, but have more questions about our destination during a specific season or if you are looking for lodging or activity recommendations, give our local vacation planning experts a call at (800) 467-8693. Ready to book? Browse lodging rates here.

The post Know Before You Go: Tips for Visiting Stowe in Every Season appeared first on Stowe.

 

 

• Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea at Black Cap Coffee & Bakery, Café on Main, or Stowe Bee Bakery & Café, then set off on your big adventure! 
• Get your Stowe charcuterie on at Stowe Mercantile for all the delicious souvenirs and Vermont products, or pick up a memento at Shaw’s General Store or Country Store on Main. 
• Learn some fun facts and celebrate the history of Stowe powderhounds at the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum, or step back in time at the Noyes House Museum or Stowe Historical Society. 

• Explore local artisans with glass-blown products at Little River Hotglass Studio or handcrafted décor, art and jewelry at Remarkable Things. 
• Take a rainy day scenic drive on the Green Mountain Byway.

 

 

• Indulge your palate like a local at Commodities Natural Market, Edelweiss Mountain Deli and Dedalus Wine. 
• Pamper yourself with a spa day! Indulge in a relaxing massage at The Trapp Family Lodge, hot/cold treatments and sanctuary lounge at The Spa at Spruce Peak or a wellness treatment at Empower Med Spa. 
• Get inspired with home décor and home essentials from Stowe Living or Remarkable Home.
• Find a one-of-a-kind jewelry or wardrobe piece at Ferro Estate & Custom Jewelers, In Company Clothing, Tangerine & Olive, BunyaBunya or The Boutique. 
• Take in the arts at one of our local galleries at The Current, Front Four Gallery or The Bryan Fine Art Gallery.

 

 

• Have a self-care day with aromatherapy and body essentials from The Body Lounge or with a service from The Calm Company. 
• Pick up a bestseller or a book featuring Vermont’s rich history at Bear Pond Books. 
• Ignore the thunder outside by making it thunder pins at Stowe Bowl: a boutique bowling alley with great food and cocktails.
• Take a history tour of the historic Trapp Family Lodge. You’ll find out what the Sound of Music got wrong and do a Q&A with von Trapp family members. 
• Embrace the cliff face with indoor rock climbing at Stowe Rocks at Stowe Mountain Resort or The Trapp Family Lodge Wellness Center. 

 

 

• Brave the weather for fly fishing with the Catamount Fishing Adventures or the Fly Rod Shop. 
• Sample some locally made craft beverages at von Trapp Bierhall, Idletyme Brewing Company, The Alchemist and Stowe Cider or why not take a brewery tour to explore the greater Stowe region with 4 Points Vermont or Savor Vermont.
• Go on the Route 100 Corridor Vermont Cheese Hunt.
• Drink a fresh apple cider and eat a legendary donut at Cold Hollow Cider Mill and watch how cider is made using a traditional 1920s rack and press.

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DAY 1: SPECTACULAR VIEWS

Morning

Stowe Mountain Resort – Gondola & Auto Toll Road (Close for the season October 15)

• Gondola: 7416 Mountain Road
• Auto Toll Road: 78 Toll Road, located off Mountain Road (Route 108)

Thompson Park & Percy Farm Corn Maze (Maze closes for the season October 15)

• 2919 Mountain Road, park at Thompson Park

Lunch Options

Round Hearth Café – 39 Edson Hill Road (802) 253-7223

Piecasso Family Pizzeria – 1899 Mountain Road (802) 253-4411

Idletyme Brewing Co. – 1859 Mountain Road (802) 253-4765

Afternoon

Spear Barn – 449 Luce Hill Road

Trapp Family Lodge – 700 Trapp Hill Road

von Trapp Brewery & Bierhall – 1333 Luce Hill Road

DAY 2: YOUR FALL CLASSICS

Morning

Sunset Rock Scenic Overlook – Walking distance from Main Street

Emily’s Bridge – Where Covered Bridge Road meets Gold Brook Road

Grandview Barn – 3019 Stowe Hollow Road

Lunch Options

Skinny Pancake – 454 Mountain Road (802) 760-6588

Café on Main – 38 Main Street (802) 253-0077

Backyard – 395 Mountain Road (802) 253-9204

Afternoon

Cold Hollow Cider – 3600 Waterbury-Stowe Road Route 100

Ben & Jerry’s Factory – 1281 Waterbury-Stowe Road Route 100

Waterbury Reservoir – 177 Reservoir Road, Waterbury Center, VT

• On-site rentals available through Umiak Outdoor Outfitters. No reservations are accepted for on-site rentals.

DAY 3: TAKE THE SCENIC ROUTE

Morning

Moss Glen Falls – Moss Glen Falls Road off Route 100 North

Red Covered Bridge – Sterling Valley Road to Cole Hill Road

Lunch Options

Edelweiss Mountain Deli – 2251 Mountain Road (802) 253-4034

Sushi Yoshi – 1128 Mountain Road (802) 253-4135

American Flatbread – 1190 Mountain Road (802) 253-3092

Afternoon

Bingham Falls – Located off Mountain Road with pull-off parking.

Scenic drive through Smugglers’ Notch – Follow Mountain Road (Route 108)

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1. Choose Transportation Wisely

Whether planes, trains or automobiles, there are so many ways nowadays to get from point A to point B. It helps to think like a more sustainable traveler when booking your trip. If you choose to fly, choose a low-carbon airline and try to fly nonstop if you have the option. Pack lighter or only bring a carry-on as heavier luggage contributes to more CO₂ emissions. If you are driving to your destination, carpool if necessary to minimize the number of cars on the road. Once at your destination, try to explore on foot or by bike if possible and only drive when you have to. The Stowe Recreation Path is a great way to explore without your vehicle. Utilize public transportation when available, such as our Mountain Road Shuttle.

2. Pack Reusable Items

Reusable is the name of the game! Travelers will often bring a refillable water bottle for their trip, but other reusable items such as snack bags and shopping bags can also be an environmentally friendly way to travel. Many hotels have incorporated filling stations in common areas for travelers to access water without having single-use bottles available. If a traditional size water bottle is too bulky to pack, there are many new collapsible alternatives that are a lighter option for travel. In addition, Vermont no longer allows plastic shopping bags. While many outlets offer a paper option, it is encouraged to carry your own reusable tote for shopping. Hitting the slopes or the trails while you’re here? Packing snacks in silicone or reusable snack bags can help limit discarded wrappers.

3. Leave No Trace

Carry in, carry out is fairly common practice, but everyone’s collective effort to leave no trace supports a sustainable destination. Help us protect the integrity of our beautiful spaces by picking up after yourself and disposing of waste properly during your visit. Respect our wildlife by observing from a safe distance and do not follow or approach them. Help preserve the ecosystem by not disturbing rocks, plants and other natural objects. Stowe’s vast, extraordinary scenery is what makes our destination truly special so we ask that guests cherish it the same way locals do.

4. Help Preserve Our Trails

Stowe is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Offering a plethora of outdoor recreational activities all year round, it is extremely important to preserve our trail system. The northeast experiences all sorts of weather conditions that impact our trails and knowing how to navigate and respect changing trail conditions will help preserve our trails for the future. Please check trail conditions before heading out: Green Mountain Club, Stowe MTB Trails, Trapp Family Lodge Trails. If trails are very muddy, please do not hike or bike on them. If trails are mostly dried out but have a few puddles, they can be used but hikers and bikers should go through the puddles instead of walking around as that hurts the surrounding vegetation, widens the trail and causes more erosion.

5. Shop Local

Another aspect of sustainable tourism, supporting local businesses is an important part of preserving a destination. Vermont is known for its locally sourced ingredients, handmade goods and artisan crafts. Shopping at the local farmers’ market is common amongst locals and guests, which supports our local farmers and artists. Restaurants all around Vermont often feature local ingredients on their menus as well as local craft beers and spirits. Stowe is home to locally owned boutiques, country stores, galleries, specialty markets, sporting goods stores and more. Be sure to stop by when you’re in town.

The post Five Tips for Traveling Sustainably appeared first on Stowe.

A Little Bit of Everything

American Flatbread – 1190 Mountain Road – One of a few great pizza spots in town. Was formerly the legendary music venue known as The Rusty Nail. Serving up wood-fired pizza, craft cocktails and local brews. View menu.

The Bench – 492 Mountain Road – Features local wood-fired food, craft beer, creative cocktails and an extensive wine list. If you’re looking for a wide range of American favorites or your choice of comfort food, this is the place for you. View menu.

Grant’s – 123 Mountain Road – Located within The Stowe Village Inn, Grant’s offers a large, but cozy indoor space in addition to their spacious deck and patio. Serving up refreshingly-unique drinks and elevated comfort food for both lunch and dinner. View menu.

Harrison’s – 25 Main Street – A well known Stowe staple located in the heart of Stowe village. Features Pasta, seafood, steaks and creative salads to satisfy a variety of tastes as well as a full bar, eclectic wine list and main street patio dining. View menu.

Piecasso Family Pizzeria – 1899 Mountain Road –  Built on the belief that pizza should be special. Enjoy traditional New York Style pizza, delicious salads, creative entrées and desserts, fine wines, fun martinis, and Vermont microbrews. Check out trivia on Tuesday night’s. View menu.

Sushi Yoshi – 1128 Mountain Road – Features an extensive menu of Chinese and Japanese cuisine. Includes a large outdoor patio space with covered seating options. The perfect place to unwind with family and friends. Hibachi tables available inside. View menu.

Pairs Well with a Drink

Après Only – 433 Mountain Road – Enjoy the Après lifestyle all year round. A celebration of 80’s nostalgia and classic Vermont ski culture. Enjoy local beer, wine, whiskey and plenty of snacks. Features a large deck and outdoor space. Located within Field Guide Lodge. View menu.

Cork Restaurant and Natural Wine Shop – 35 School Street – Features natural wines, local craft beer, and a unique dining experience focused on fresh and local ingredients. Located down the street from the iconic Stowe Community Church. View menu.

Idletyme Brewing Co. – 1859 Mountain Road – Quality beer brewed on site, delicious, high-value fare that’s family friendly and a cool atmosphere where locals and tourists alike can relax. Located right off the Stowe Recreation Path, be sure to try their Brewski Sampler. View menu.

Ranch Camp – 311 Mountain Road – Bikes! Beers! Burritos! Stowe’s trailside, casual eatery, tap room and full-service mountain bike shop. Fare consists of simple, fresh comfort food with a healthy twist. Vegan and gluten free options available. View menu.

Shakedown Street BBQ & Grill – 17 Town Farm Lane – Combines classic barbecue flavors with modern twists, creating a timeless taste. Located inside Stowe Cider, These meals pair best with cider straight from the tap, craft beer, or one of their rotating signature cocktails. View menu.

von Trapp Brewing Bierhall Restaurant – 1333 Luce Hill Road – “A little of Austria, a lot of Vermont,” serving fresh lager beers and a selection of freshly prepared Austrian lunch and dinner selections. Located on the grounds of the Trapp Family Lodge, the Bierhall is situated on 60km of private cross-county ski and mountain bike trails. View menu.

Open For Breakfast and More

The Bagel – 394 Mountain Road – Offers 20 varieties of bagels made from scratch every day. Serving both breakfast and lunch. Breakfast sandwiches served on bagels, croissants, English muffins, breads or wraps. Lunch includes deli sandwiches, hot sandwiches, soups, chili, salads and more. View menu.

Black Cap Coffee and Bakery – 144 Main Street – Offers great coffee and specialty lattes as well as pastries made daily in house with local ingredients. In addition to breakfast and lunch options, grab a beer from Vermont’s best breweries and shop through our collection of art and gifts. View menu.

Café on Main – 38 Main Street – Situated in the heart of Stowe village and open daily for breakfast and lunch. Enjoy home-baked goodies, farm fresh breakfasts, “GR8SOUPS”, sensational salads and sandwiches. Offering covered outdoor seating with views of the downtown. View menu.

Round Hearth Café & Marketplace – 39 Edson Hill Road – A one stop shop for good food and exciting new finds. Enjoy your meal out on the picnic tables. Open daily for both breakfast and lunch. Features an array of breakfast sandwiches in addition to classic breakfast favorites. View menu.

The Skinny Pancake – 454 Mountain Road – Serves breakfast all day, but dishes out breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert – offering locally sourced crepes, burgers, salads, beer/wine and more. Features both sweet and savory crepes and a variety of other delicious menu items. View menu.

Trapp Family Kaffeehaus – 700 Trapp Hill Road – Experience flavors of Austria, fresh baked goods and beautiful views of Stowe while sipping authentic Austrian coffee. Located on the grounds of the Trapp Family Lodge, a great place for a quick breakfast, a bakery treat, soups, salads and more. View menu.

Dining in the Clouds

 

Cliff House Restaurant – 5781 Mountain Road

Distinctively situated atop the gondola on Mount Mansfield at Stowe Mountain Resort, the Cliff House has spectacular panoramic-views. Open for lunch only and accessible via the Mansfield Gondola (ticket/pass required). Features Regional American cuisine with a rustic Vermont flair, local craft beer, cocktails and wine by the glass.

Reservations recommended. Gondola ride time is 10-12 minutes. Plan accordingly for your reservation time. Gondola SkyRide not included with reservation.

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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.

Indoor Activities

Craft breweries – Vermont has more craft breweries per capita than any other state and the Stowe area is home to some of the best. Mud season is the perfect time to avoid the crowds while exploring all the breweries, cideries, wineries and distilleries the area has to offer. Book a guided tour to maximize the experience.

Museums and galleries – The natural beauty of Stowe’s scenery is matched by its vibrant arts community. Museums and art galleries can be found throughout Stowe and the surrounding area. From painting, photography and sculptures to jewelry and glass – something unique and intriguing is always on exhibit.

Stowe Bowl – An eight-lane bowling venue that’s not your average alley, Stowe Bowl is a swanky boutique bowling lounge featuring a full bar and diverse menu. A great place for families and larger groups, Stowe Bowl is the perfect place to post up for the afternoon or evening, especially during fickle weather.

Spa day – Vermont is serene and peaceful all year round, but no matter the season, there is always time to rest and recover. Bask in the ultimate relaxation with a trip to one of our world-class spas. Choose from a variety of services and treatments or unwind with a massage.

Outdoor Activities

Stowe Recreation Path – Open all year round, the 5.3-mile paved public path is free to use and easy to access. It starts in the historic Stowe Village and ends at a beautiful, covered bridge. People of all ages will enjoy scenic views along the mostly flat and level trail. The recreation path is perfect to explore during mud season while some unpaved trails remain closed due to soggy conditions.

Road biking – Whether you’re looking for a short ride around town, or a longer full-day excursion, our roads and paved trails offer some of the most scenic cycling routes in Vermont. We have a lot of pavement to explore, as well as an extensive network of gravel roads with views. View the Stowe Road Biking Guide for beginner, intermediate and advanced road rides in the Stowe area.

Lamoille Valley Rail Trail – The Lamoille Valley Rail Trail (LVRT) is a four-season, multi-purpose recreation and transportation corridor across northern Vermont following the former 93-mile Lamoille Valley Railroad (LVRR) rail line from St. Johnsbury to Swanton. The trail is open year-round to non-motorized uses and features wheelchair accessible grades.

Fishing – Trout fishing season opens in the Green Mountain State in mid-April. Whether you’re a beginner or come with more experience, the Stowe area offers some of the best fishing in Vermont. If you’re looking for a guide to the best local spots, Stowe is home to a number of experienced fishing instructors.

Mud Season Tips & Tricks

• Stick to activities on paved or more durable surfaces – traveling on roads or paths that are oversaturated from snowmelt and rainy weather conditions are vulnerable to damage from erosion. Help us protect and maintain dirt roads and trails by utilizing paved options.
• Check the weather! Always be prepared for unpredictable weather. Plan your activities accordingly if the forecast calls for rain or damp conditions. Be sure to pack appropriate footwear and outerwear for the various activities you have planned.
• Research trail closures and conditions ahead of time when possible. Abide by all trail signs on any open or partially open trails. Be prepared to turn around if conditions appear too muddy.

Photos courtesy of: von Trapp Brewing Bierhall, The Current, Stowe Bowl, The Calm Company, Sharon Harper and Carrie Nourjian/Commodores Inn. Feature image courtesy of Mark Vandenberg.

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