Beautiful Fall Hiking in Stowe

Best Fall Hikes in Stowe 🍁

Autumn in Stowe is nothing short of spectacular. As the Green Mountains blaze with vibrant reds, oranges, and golds, the town becomes one of New England’s most iconic leaf-peeping destinations. Crisp air, scenic trails, and sweeping summit views make fall the perfect season to lace up your boots and explore. From gentle woodland walks to challenging climbs up Mount Mansfield, hiking in Stowe during foliage season offers unforgettable beauty at every turn.

1. Stowe Pinnacle

• Distance: ~2.8 miles round-trip

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Why in Fall: The panoramic summit offers one of the best foliage views in Vermont, with rolling mountains and valleys blanketed in fiery reds, oranges, and golds.

2. Sterling Pond Trail

• Distance: ~2.0 miles round-trip

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Why in Fall: The trail weaves through Smugglers’ Notch, where dramatic cliffs and golden hardwoods create a stunning contrast, ending at a serene alpine pond framed by color.

3. Moss Glen Falls

• Distance: ~0.25 miles

• Difficulty: Easy

• Why in Fall: Vermont’s tallest waterfall is framed by brilliant foliage, making this short walk one of the most photogenic fall stops in Stowe.

4. Sunset Ridge Trail (Mount Mansfield)

• Distance: ~3.3 miles one way

• Difficulty: Challenging

• Why in Fall: Ascend Vermont’s highest peak for sweeping ridge-top views of patchwork foliage below, stretching as far as Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks.

5. Wiessner Woods

• Distance: ~1.5-mile loop

• Difficulty: Easy 

• Why in Fall: A quiet, family-friendly trail perfect for soaking in fall color up close—ideal for a peaceful walk or an afternoon picnic surrounded by glowing leaves.

🍂 Fall Hiking Tip: Stowe’s trails are busiest during peak foliage (late September to mid-October). For fewer crowds, try early morning hikes or mid-week visits.

🍂 Fall Hiking Weekend Itinerary in Stowe

Friday: Arrival & Gentle Stroll

• Wiessner Woods – Ease into your weekend with this peaceful 1.5-mile loop through glowing sugar maples and soft pine forest. Perfect for stretching your legs after the drive.

• Evening Idea: Head into Stowe Village for dinner at a cozy farm-to-table restaurant, then enjoy a quiet walk past the iconic white-steepled Stowe Community Church lit under the autumn sky.

Saturday: Summit Day & Scenic Drives

• Morning: Hike the Stowe Pinnacle Trail (2.8 miles round-trip). The moderate climb leads to one of Vermont’s most iconic foliage viewpoints—an absolute must in autumn.

• Afternoon: Refuel with a hearty lunch in town, then take a drive through Smugglers’ Notch to marvel at fiery foliage along the winding cliffs. If time allows, add the Sterling Pond Trail for a 2-mile bonus hike at the top of the Notch.

• Evening: Treat yourself to après-hike relaxation—sip cider or a craft beer at a local brewery, or unwind by the fire at your inn.

Sunday: Waterfalls & Farewell

• Moss Glen Falls – Just a short walk, but unforgettable in the fall. The 85-foot cascade framed by vibrant foliage makes for the perfect parting photo of your Stowe trip.

• Optional: If you have time, ride the Stowe Gondola SkyRide for sweeping bird’s-eye views of autumn color before heading home.

✨ Pro Tip: Peak foliage in Stowe typically runs late September through mid-October. Arrive early in the day for trailhead parking, and don’t forget layers—mountaintop temps are often much cooler than in the valley.