Hiking in Stowe
Hiking in Stowe, VT
Discover why hikers of all abilities flock to Stowe, Vermont — a trail-rich paradise where every footstep leads to a new vista, waterfall, or forested escape.
Trail Highlights Across Skill Levels
Difficulty Level | Notable Trails & Features |
|---|---|
Easy & Family-Friendly | Wiessner Woods — A serene, flat 1.5-mile loop with forest and meadow views, ideal for walking, snowshoeing, or skiing in all seasons . Stowe Recreation Path — A paved 5.3-mile greenway recognized nationally; perfect for strolling, biking, or cross-country skiing . Bingham Falls & Moss Glen Falls — Short, accessible trails to stunning cascades — both under a mile round-trip . |
Moderate Adventures | Stowe Pinnacle — A 2.8-mile round-trip hike with a 1,520-ft gain, offering 360° views of the Green Mountains — very popular at sunrise or sunset . Sterling Pond — A beautiful Smugglers’ Notch trail leading to a mountain-top pond ideal for relaxing . Nebraska Notch / Lake Mansfield — A lesser-known but tranquil intermediate hike away from the crowds . |
Challenging Terrain | Long Trail & Cliff Trail on Mount Mansfield — Rugged paths with rock scrambles and dramatic ridge views — for seasoned hikers. Haselton Trail — A steep, forested route toward the summit ridge of Mansfield . Hell Brook Trail — Among Vermont’s toughest trails — steep, rocky, and relentless, but rewarding . |
From Locals and Trail-Lovers
Redditors vouch for Stowe’s hike diversity and accessibility:
“Sterling Pond tends to be super crowded… but you emerge a little below the surface – it’s a cool visual effect.”
“Stowe Pinnacle would be a nice challenging hike… about 3 hours round trip.”
Why Hiking in Stowe Stands Out
Stowe’s trails cater to every mood — from tranquil forest walks and iconic waterfalls to exhilarating climbs and summit panoramas. Whether you’re chasing foliage, seeking challenge, or just looking to stretch your legs in inspiring surroundings, Stowe’s hiking scene delivers.
Perfect — here’s a Top 5 Must-Do Hikes in Stowe list with quick stats and highlights, ideal for your Things To Do page:
Top 5 Must-Do Hikes in Stowe
1. Stowe Pinnacle
Distance: ~2.8 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlight: A rewarding climb leading to a bald summit with 360° views of the Green Mountains. A favorite at sunrise and sunset.
2. Sterling Pond Trail
Distance: ~2.0 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlight: Winds through Smugglers’ Notch to Vermont’s highest alpine pond—perfect for a picnic spot with mountain reflections.
3. Moss Glen Falls
Distance: ~0.25 miles (very short walk)
Difficulty: Easy
Highlight: Vermont’s tallest waterfall, easily accessible and stunning year-round, especially during spring runoff or autumn color.
4. Mount Mansfield (Long Trail via Sunset Ridge or Cliff Trail)
Distance: Varies (3–6 miles depending on route)
Difficulty: Challenging
Highlight: Summit Vermont’s highest peak for dramatic ridge walks, alpine tundra, and panoramic views stretching to the Adirondacks.
5. Wiessner Woods
Distance: ~1.5-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Highlight: A gentle woodland walk with family-friendly terrain and interpretive signs. Great for snowshoeing in winter.
✨ Insider Tip: For leaf-peeping season, Stowe Pinnacle, Sterling Pond, and the trails on Mount Mansfield are especially popular for their sweeping foliage views.
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Stowe Vacation Packages
Explore all inclusive vacation packages at Stowe’s “Best Family Resort”
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Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin’ Festival
Step into autumn the Stowe way at the Vermont Pumpkin Chuckin’ Festival—a wildly creative, family‑friendly fall celebration like no other. Held at the Stowe Events Field (120 Weeks Hill Road) on Sunday, September 28, 2025, from 11 AM to 4 PM, this festival
Percy Farm Corn Maze
Located right off the Stowe Recreation Path, the Percy Farm Corn Maze is a beloved fall tradition for families, couples, and adventurers alike. This fun and engaging maze takes about 30–40 minutes to complete and is thoughtfully set against the
Sugarbush Soaring
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Stowe Gondola SkyRide
Gondola SkyRide at Stowe Mountain Resort Soar effortlessly to near the summit of Vermont’s highest peak on the iconic Gondola SkyRide—a must-do experience in Stowe offering unparalleled views of the Green Mountains and valley below. What to Expect: Year-Round Attraction:
Hiking in Stowe
Hiking in Stowe, VT Discover why hikers of all abilities flock to Stowe, Vermont — a trail-rich paradise where every footstep leads to a new vista, waterfall, or forested escape. Trail Highlights Across Skill Levels Difficulty Level Notable Trails &
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,
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