• Where is Stowe located?
    • Stowe is one of Vermont's charming towns, situated in a fertile valley between scenic Mount Mansfield and several other Green Mountains peaks to the west, and the imposing Worcester Range to the east.
  • What types of accommodations are available in Stowe?
    • Visitors will find many boutique hotels, charming inns, and resorts in Stowe.
  • What river flows through Stowe?
    • The Little River flows through the town, crossed by romantic, historic covered bridges.
  • What is Stowe famous for?
    • Stowe is famous for its winter skiing and fun family summer adventures.

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1. Mount Mansfield

Mount Mansfield


  • What is Mount Mansfield?
    • Mount Mansfield is Vermont's highest mountain, with its highest peak reaching 4,393 feet.
  • Why is Mount Mansfield popular?
    • It is a popular destination for hikers in the summer and skiers in the winter.
  • What does Mount Mansfield look like?
    • When observed from the West or East, the mountain resembles a human profile, with the chin sticking up highest.
  • What hiking trails cross Mount Mansfield?
    • The mountain is intersected by several hiking trails, including the popular Long Trail, which crosses the mountain's main ridgeline.
  • Where is skiing available on Mount Mansfield?
    • The east flank of the mountain is used for skiing in the winter by the Stowe Mountain Resort.
  • What is unique about Mount Mansfield's summit?
    • The summit has about 200 acres of real alpine tundra that remained from the Ice Age, making it one of only three such spots in Vermont.
  • What is "The Nose" on Mount Mansfield?
    • "The Nose" is a convenient location for transmitter towers used by several local radio and TV stations.

2. Stowe Recreation Path

Stowe Recreation Path


  • What is the Stowe Recreation Path?
    • The Stowe Recreation Path, or what locals call the 'Rec Path', is a paved 5.5-mile one-way public path that offers a scenic and leisurely way to explore Stowe.
  • Who can enjoy the Stowe Recreation Path?
    • The path is mostly flat and can be enjoyed by anyone regardless of age or fitness level.
  • What activities can be done on the Rec Path?
    • Visitors can walk, bike, or in the winter, enjoy skiing or snowshoeing.
  • What scenic features can be found along the path?
    • The path takes you over a lovely stone bridge, along swimming holes, and past benches and picnic tables.
  • Is the Rec Path easily accessible?
    • Yes, the path is easy to access from several spots in the village and offers beautiful views of Stowe from many points.
  • What is the Quiet Path?
    • The Rec Path is intersected at several points by the 1.8-mile Quiet Path, which is reserved for joggers and walkers. It features a natural surface and beautiful views of the Little River.

3. Smugglers Notch State Park

Smugglers Notch State Park


  • What is Smugglers' Notch?
    • Smugglers' Notch is a narrow pass through the Green Mountains, located about six miles from Stowe, surrounded by 1,000-foot high cliffs.
  • Is the road through Smugglers' Notch open year-round?
    • The winding road through the Notch is impassable in winter.
  • Why is Smugglers' Notch historically significant?
    • The Notch was famously used for various illegal activities, including:
      • Smuggling cattle and goods from British territories in Canada in the 19th century
      • Helping runaway slaves escape to freedom
      • Transporting illegal alcohol during Prohibition from Canada to the United States
  • Is Smugglers' Notch State Park open year-round?
  • What camping facilities are available at Smugglers' Notch?
    • The park has twenty campsites and fourteen lean-to shelters located just off Route 108.
  • Are there hiking trails in Smugglers' Notch?
    • Yes, trailheads for several hiking trails leading into Mount Mansfield State Forest start at Smugglers' Notch State Park.
  • Where is Smugglers' Notch located?
    • 6443 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672, Phone: 802-253-4014

4. Stowe Mountain Auto Toll Road

Stowe Mountain Auto Toll Road


  • What is the Mt. Mansfield Auto Road?
    • The Mt. Mansfield Auto Road, also called the Stowe Toll Road, is a 150-year-old scenic road that winds 4.5 miles to the summit of Mt. Mansfield.
  • How high does the Mt. Mansfield Auto Road climb?
    • The road climbs to an elevation of 3,850 feet, offering spectacular views of the Adirondack Mountains and the Lake Champlain Valley.
  • When is the Stowe Toll Road open?
    • The Stowe Toll Road closes in mid-December and re-opens in July.
  • Can you ski down the Stowe Toll Road?
    • Yes, during the winter, when cars are not permitted, it is possible to ski down the road.
  • Is there a fee for driving the Mt. Mansfield Auto Road?
    • Yes, a toll is charged by the Stowe Mountain Resort for access to the road.
  • Are bicycles and motorcycles allowed on the road?
    • No, bicycles and motorcycles are not permitted on the Mt. Mansfield Auto Road.
  • Are there hiking trails at the top of the road?
    • Yes, several popular hiking trails start at the upper end of the road.
  • Where is the Stowe Mountain Auto Toll Road located?

5. Sterling Falls Gorge

Sterling Falls Gorge


  • What is Sterling Falls Gorge?
    • Sterling Falls Gorge Natural Area is a scenic gorge located in the Vermont Green Mountains near Stowe.
  • How was Sterling Falls Gorge formed?
    • The gorge was carved by 10,000 years of relentless work from rocks and sand carried by Sterling Brook, resulting in a spectacular gorge with cascades, falls, and pools.
  • How high are the gorge walls?
    • The gorge walls range from 11 to 50 feet high and are surrounded by dense hemlock forests, shrubs, and ferns.
  • What makes the walls of Sterling Falls Gorge unique?
    • The walls are covered with lush, green mosses, adding to their natural beauty.
  • Is there a trail to explore the gorge?
    • Yes, there is a scenic trail that follows the gorge, at times getting close to the gorge walls, revealing thousands of years of geological history through exposed rock layers.
  • How long does it take to walk the trail?
    • The walk to the end of the trail and back takes about 45 minutes.
  • Where is Sterling Falls Gorge located?
    • West Hill Road, Stowe, VT

6. Emily's Covered Bridge

Emily's Covered Bridge


  • What is Gold Brook Covered Bridge?
    • Gold Brook Covered Bridge, also known as Emily's Covered Bridge, is a small covered wooden bridge over Gold Brook in Stowe, Vermont.
  • When was Gold Brook Covered Bridge built?
    • The bridge was built in 1844 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • Why is Gold Brook Covered Bridge called Emily's Covered Bridge?
    • According to legend, the bridge is haunted by the ghost of a girl named Emily, who allegedly took her own life on the bridge after her lover failed to meet her there.
  • Is there any evidence that Emily existed?
    • There is no historical evidence that Emily ever existed, but stories of her appearances and mysterious noises continue to be reported by visitors.
  • What could explain the noises at the bridge?
    • The noises are most likely caused by teenagers partying under the bridge, often leading to police intervention.

7. Gentle Giants Sleigh and Carriage Rides

Gentle Giants Sleigh and Carriage Rides


  • What is the best way to explore Stowe's scenic roads?
    • There is no better way to explore the scenic roads and vistas of Stowe than in a beautiful, old-fashioned carriage or sleigh pulled by powerful but gentle Belgian and Percheron horses named Mack, Justin, Donny, Tom, and Bret.
  • What types of carriages and sleighs are available?
    • You can choose between romantic carriages and sleighs for two or large, candy-apple red Santa-style carriages that can fit up to 12 people.
  • Can the carriage top be adjusted?
    • Yes, you can leave the top down to enjoy the fresh air or put it up if it rains.
  • What can you see during the ride?
    • The ride takes you down scenic winding roads, through the village and dense woods, across historic covered bridges, and offers splendid views of Mt. Mansfield.
  • Are the rides available in winter?
    • Yes, in winter, you can snuggle under a blanket during the day or take a ride under the stars in the evening.
  • Are the carriage rides private?
    • Yes, each ride is private and just for you.
  • Where can you book a carriage or sleigh ride?

8. Stowe Mountain Resort

Stowe Mountain Resort


  • What is Stowe Mountain Resort?
    • Stowe Mountain Resort is a premier ski resort in Vermont that offers skiing on two mountains: Spruce Peak and Mount Mansfield.
  • What is the lift-served vertical drop at Mount Mansfield?
    • Mount Mansfield has a lift-served vertical drop of 2,360 feet and an average annual snowfall of 333 inches.
  • How many trails are available for skiing?
    • There are 116 trails on Spruce Peak and 39 miles of ski terrain on Mount Mansfield.
  • What activities are available when there is no snow?
    • When the snow melts, visitors can enjoy:
      • Hiking across the mountain
      • Golfing
      • Mountain biking
      • Rock climbing
      • Zip lining
      • Scenic drives on the Toll Road, offering postcard-worthy views
  • Is there childcare available at the resort?
    • Yes, the resort has a great daycare facility, so parents can explore while the kids enjoy their own fun activities.
  • Where is Stowe Mountain Resort located?
    • 7416 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672, Phone: 802-253-3000

9. Umiak Outdoor Outfitters

Umiak Outdoor Outfitters


  • What is Umiak Outdoor Outfitters?
    • Umiak Outdoor Outfitters is a retail store and tour company that provides outdoor adventure gear and guided tours in New England.
  • What does the retail division sell?
    • The retail division offers everything needed for outdoor adventures, including new and used boats, skis, snowshoes, clothing, sleds, car racks, and crampons.
  • Are tours available year-round?
    • Yes, Umiak Outdoor Outfitters offers tours year-round, whether you want to go kayaking in the summer or sledding in the winter.
  • What can visitors experience on a kayak tour of the Winooski River?
    • Kayak tours of the Winooski River provide a chance to see wildlife up close, including deer, otters, moose, great blue herons, and kingfishers.
  • What makes the Lamouille River canoeing tour ideal for beginners?
    • The Lamouille River canoeing tour is perfect for beginners because of its slow-moving waters, making it a relaxing and easy ride.
  • Does Umiak Outdoor Outfitters offer any special tours?
    • Yes, they offer craft brewery tours, where visitors can enjoy local brews while exploring the area.
  • What winter activities are available?
    • In winter, guides take groups on snowshoeing and cross-country skiing adventures, or for a spectacular ride on a dogsled.
  • Where is Umiak Outdoor Outfitters located?
    • 849 South Main Street, Stowe, VT 05672, Phone: 802-253-2317


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Quiet and beautiful with blooming flowers, great for hiking. Green Mountain Inn – A charming historic hotel in the heart of Stowe. Explore Smugglers’ Notch State Park – Enjoy scenic hikes and waterfalls.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and vibrant, perfect for outdoor adventures. Topnotch Resort – A luxury stay with spa and mountain views. Go biking on the Stowe Recreation Path – A scenic trail perfect for all skill levels.
Fall (September-November) – Stunning foliage and cool weather, ideal for scenic drives. Trapp Family Lodge – A unique Austrian-inspired lodge with great history. Take a scenic drive on Route 100 – One of the best foliage routes in New England.
Winter (December-February) – Snowy and magical, ideal for skiing and winter sports. Stowe Mountain Lodge – A ski-in/ski-out luxury resort. Hit the slopes at Stowe Mountain Resort – One of the best ski destinations in the U.S.

Stowe, Vermont Weather by Month

Month High (°F) Low (°F) Precip. (in) Conditions
January 25 10 3.5 Cold & Snowy
February 28 12 3.2 Cold & Snowy
March 35 20 3.8 Chilly & Snowy
April 45 28 3.5 Cool & Rainy
May 60 36 3.7 Pleasant
June 72 48 3.9 Warm & Humid
July 78 54 3.8 Warm & Humid
August 75 52 3.5 Warm & Humid
September 65 40 3.3 Cool & Crisp
October 50 30 3.1 Cool & Rainy
November 38 22 3.2 Chilly & Rainy
December 28 12 3.3 Cold & Snowy

Stowe events:
- Stowe Winter Carnival - January 22-26, 2025
- Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin' Festival - September 28, 2025
- Music in the Meadow - in June

Map:


Plan Your Trip


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Photo Credits: © Courtesy of Don Landwehrle - Fotolia.com, Courtesy of ZaZa studio - Fotolia.com, Courtesy of bulashenko - Fotolia.com, stowemountainresort, Sterling Falls Gorge, Courtesy of Don Landwehrle - Fotolia.com, Gentle Giants Sleigh and Carriage Rides, Courtesy of Don Landwehrle - Fotolia.com, Umiak Outdoor Outfitters,