Mountain biking is a popular summer activity in Stowe, with good reason. Named a “mountain biking mecca” by The Boston Globe, Stowe’s extensive trail network of well-maintained, interconnected trails offers fun and challenging terrain, suitable for all ability levels. More than 50 miles of well-maintained single track around Stowe guarantee a green Vermont view in the woods, on the roads or paved paths.

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). As stewards of the trails, STP ensures trails are in top riding conditions. Be sure to check the most recent trail conditions before venturing out. There are several bike shops that offer rentals, accessories and tune-up services for those with their own bikes. Many hotels are bike-friendly, offering washing stations and lock-up storage for your equipment. Some restaurants and attractions along the the Stowe Recreation Path offer a small discount to encourage people to ride instead of drive. Guided tours are available through 4 Points VT.

Mountain Bike Trails

• Cady Hill Forest: The Cady Hill Forest is Stowe Trails Partnership’s flagship trail network; its diverse terrain, great views, easy access from town and the Stowe Rec Path, and trails that cater to just about any level of rider make it one of the most ridden trail networks in the northeast. Since 2012, Stowe Trails Partnership has constructed almost five miles of fresh single-track in Cady Hill, and has rerouted and rebuilt many smaller sections of trail to modern standards. Cady Hill’s signature trail Florence, built by Sustainable Trailworks, has been named best flow trail by MTBVT.com readers three years running.
• Adams Camp: The Adams Camp trail pod, located just off the northern end of Stowe’s iconic Mountain Road, includes portions of the Catamount Trail and Stowe Derby Trail. Adams Camp  provides access to a large trail network in Ranch Valley and Mt. Mansfield State Forest while also serving as an invaluable link to the Trapp Family Lodge trails.
• Sterling Forest: Sterling Forest is unique among Stowe’s trail pods due to its location and remote, backcountry feel. The trails are challenging, and the setting offers a sense of isolation that can be hard to find these days. The latest addition is Callagy’s Trail, a technical, hand-built trail that’s as challenging as it is fun. It took more than 400 hours of volunteer time and several generous donations to complete the trail in 2017.
• Trapp Family Lodge: A 2,600-acre destination with two skills parks, eight miles of expert and intermediate single track, and more than 20 miles of double track through mountains, fields and forests. Access the network at Trapp Family Lodge’s Outdoor Center for a small daily fee. Ride Hop Over or Lager Lane to the von Trapp Brewery Bierhall for a refreshing beverage and bite with a view.
• Stowe Recreation Path: for a more leisurely scenic ride, explore the 5.3-mile paved “rec path” that meanders along the West Branch of the Little River and passes by restaurants, shops, attractions and lodges along the way.

Mountain Biking Events

Stowe is home to several mountain biking and fat biking events, including Stokebury in June, the Leaf Blower Fall Classic in October, and Überwintern fat bike fest in January.

Explore Mountain Biking in the Region

Learn about the best of Route 100 in Vermont with more mountain biking in the Waterbury and Mad River Valley regions.