Stowe

This quintessential Vermont mountain village is home to Mount Mansfield, the state's highest peak, offering world-class skiing in winter and hiking and scenic drives during other seasons. The charming town center features galleries, shops, and excellent restaurants with views of the Green Mountains.

Things to do

• Mount Mansfield Summit Hike — Climb Vermont's highest peak via the Sunset Ridge Trail for panoramic views of the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain.
• Stowe Mountain Resort Skiing — Experience world-class alpine skiing on the Front Four and back bowls during winter months.
• Stowe Recreation Path — Enjoy a 5.3-mile paved recreational path perfect for walking, cycling, and cross-country skiing that connects the village to the mountain.
• Gondola Ride to Mansfield Summit — Take the scenic Sky Ride chairlift from Stowe Mountain Resort to experience high-altitude views without the hiking effort.
• Cold Hollow Cider Mill — Browse fresh cider, apple cider donuts, and local produce at this iconic New England farm stand.
• Sterling Pond Trail — Hike to this pristine alpine pond for crystal-clear mountain reflections and views of the surrounding peaks.
• Moss Glen Falls — Visit this cascading 125-foot waterfall nestled in a scenic gorge just outside Stowe village.

Food to try

• Apple Cider Donuts — Warm, cake-like donuts infused with local apple cider and cinnamon, a New England autumn staple found at Cold Hollow Cider Mill and local bakeries.
• Vermont Cheddar — Aged Vermont sharp cheddar cheese, often served with apple cider and crackers at local restaurants and farms in the region.
• Farm-to-Table Green Mountain Cuisine — Stowe restaurants like Piecasso and Harrison's showcase seasonal menus featuring locally-sourced vegetables, grass-fed beef, and maple syrup.
• Maple Creemee — A soft-serve ice cream swirled with Vermont maple syrup, a quintessential summer treat reflecting the state's maple heritage.
• Fresh Trout — Local restaurants prepare fresh mountain trout sourced from Vermont streams and nearby farms.

Local customs & good to know

• Peak Fall Foliage Season — Plan your visit for late September through early October when the Green Mountains display brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows; book accommodations well in advance as this is the busiest season.
• Seasonal Mountain Access — Mountain roads and trails can close unexpectedly in winter due to snow; always check conditions before hiking or driving scenic routes like Mount Mansfield Auto Road.
• Outdoor-First Culture — Stowe residents embrace an active lifestyle year-round; you'll find locals skiing, hiking, and biking regardless of season, and most establishments cater to this outdoor-oriented community.
• Support Local Artisans — The town center features independent galleries and shops run by local artists and craftspeople; purchasing from these venues directly supports the community's creative economy.