Things You’ll Find Only In Stowe
Discover some of the things that truly differentiate Stowe. From Vermont’s tallest peak, waterfall and church steeple, to three classic covered bridges and more than 45 hiking trails, add one-of-kind memories to your bucket list and experience the best of Vermont only in Stowe! Here you’ll discover world-class outdoor adventure, small-town charm and iconic scenery—all packaged together. Learn more about what makes Stowe special below.
Scenic Views
Nestled in a valley east of the Green Mountains of Vermont, Stowe’s natural beauty is immediately apparent and make the best backdrop for Instagram-worthy photos that capture the memory of your visit.
- Only in Stowe you’ll find Vermont’s highest peak: Mount Mansfield, the perfect destination for summer hiking adventures and mountain activities year-round.
- Green Mountain Byway passes right through Stowe—offering visitors access to many of Vermont’s hidden gems. From history and culture, to scenic views and outdoor recreation, take a scenic drive on—and off—this incredibly special Vermont road.
- Moss Glen Falls is Vermont’s tallest waterfall and an ideal location for a short and scenic hike. Stowe is also home to Bingham Falls and Sterling Gorge Falls.
- Trapp Family Lodge, originally built in 1950 and currently run by the family that inspired The Sound of Music, offers sweeping mountain views from its property from which you can get a trail pass to hike, bike, take a tour, and more.
- Cliff House Restaurant on Mount Mansfield offers sweeping views of the Stowe valley, Worcester mountains and beyond while dining either outside in the warmer months or inside during the winter.
Outdoor Recreation
Recreate outdoors year-round in our charming small town. Take in the fresh mountain air and enjoy a relaxing walk, hike, bike ride or drive for picturesque scenes at every turn that inspire.
- Stowe has hosted travelers for more than 200 years. While the town of Stowe expanded steadily over the years as interest in the winter sport grew, Stowe has also become a premier vacation destination in the summer and fall.
- With an extensive, world-class trail network, it’s no wonder hiking is the most popular activity in the summer. 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.
- Named a “mountain biking mecca” by The Boston Globe, explore more than 65 miles of trails at the foot of Mount Mansfield. Stowe’s well-maintained, interconnected trails offer fun and challenging terrain, suitable for all ability levels.
- Paddling, another popular summer and fall activity, is also a great way to take in the scenic views!
- Stowe Mountain Resort, the premier resort destination in North America, the Gondola SkyRide and Auto Toll Road in the summer and fall, and world-class skiing and riding in the winter.
- Vermont’s historic Long Trail (LT) is one of the most popular trails. 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, and crosses over Mt. Mansfield and into Smugglers’ Notch and beyond.
- In addition, the Stowe Recreation Path (or “rec path” for short) is a flat 5.3-mile walking and biking path that meanders through town along the West Branch of the Little River, starting in the heart of Stowe and ending at a picturesque covered bridge.
- Stowe is the gateway into Smugglers’ Notch where, after a windy and scenic drive through, you’ll find hiking and biking trails, zip lining at ArborTrek Canopy Adventures, disc golf, paddling adventures, farm stands and farm-to-table dinners, and more.
Small-Town Charm
A mountain resort town steeped in history, Stowe, Vermont is a four-season destination with historical, cultural and recreational activities—from mountain to Main Street—along with quaint shops, restaurants and cafes, inns and hotels, and other businesses. Small-town charm you’ll find only in Stowe include:
- In the heart of Stowe, Vermont is a historic downtown village with beautifully maintained buildings
- Vermont’s tallest church steeple on the Stowe Community Church
- Three classic Vermont covered bridges including the famously haunted Emily’s bridge, also known as the Gold Brook Covered Bridge. Built in 1844, Emily’s Bridge is the oldest Howe Truss bridge in Vermont.