With one of the largest and most diverse trail systems in the United States, Stowe ranks as one of the top cross-country ski destinations on the east coast, including over 3,000 acres of conserved land. Stowe offers more than 120 kilometers of groomed ski trails, and more than 100 kilometers of backcountry skiing. Stowe has trails for every ability–from perfectly groomed tracks to smooth wide skating lanes to fine, untracked back-country skiing. This cross-country treasure surrounds Stowe’s historic Village, which features a variety of restaurants and unique shops.

Stowe is home to several Nordic skiing events, including the historic Stowe Derby.

Where to Cross-Country Ski in Stowe

Below are popular cross-country ski locations. View Stowe Nordic’s interactive map of ski locations in Stowe.

Trapp Family Lodge: Ranked the #1 Best Cross-Country Ski Resort in North America by USA Today, the Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center is the largest cross-country ski center in Stowe, featuring 37 miles of groomed trails and 62 miles of backcountry trails suitable for skiers of all ages and abilities.

Stowe Mountain Resort: Stowe is especially famous as one of North America’s premier cross country skiing destinations, with hundreds of kilometers of groomed and backcountry trails, including Stowe Mountain Resort.

Stowe Recreation Path: A local favorite for Nordic skiing is the Stowe Recreation Path. The flat 5.3 mile-long path is a convenient way for cross-country skiers of all abilities to enjoy the scenic views of Stowe.  It is groomed regularly by Stowe Nordic, allowing for easy cross-country adventure. View Stowe’s public XC trails groomed by Stowe Nordic. The “rec path” is complimentary to use and is to get to from  Mountain Road, which also has shops and restaurants to enjoy along the way.

Catamount Trail: If you like distance on your Vermont Nordic tour, make Stowe your base and enjoy the beauty and challenges of The Catamount Trail, a 300-mile cross-country trail that runs the length of Vermont.

Important Organizations

There are a few organizations that work to promote cross-country skiing in Stowe, in addition to area businesses with cross-country ski offerings. Read below to learn more.

Stowe Nordic: Stowe Nordic is a non-profit organization based in Stowe dedicated to the promotion, enhancement and expansion of all levels and forms of cross-country skiing in the Stowe area. Stowe Nordic works to expand local skiing options, hosts races, events and social activities for all levels of skiers, and sponsors a recreational race team for masters skiers. View Stowe Nordic’s Guide to Nordic Skiing in Stowe, an interactive map identifying all Nordic ski locations in Stowe.

Stowe Land Trust: Stowe Land Trust also maintains 3,500 acres of land in Stowe, Waterbury and Morrisville. Five of the properties are open to public recreation and can be used for cross-country skiing, including Wiessner Woods and Sterling Forest.