Things To Do
Hiking
A true haven for outdoor lovers, Stowe is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and hiking is one of the most inviting ways to experience it. With world-class trails for every level and ability, Stowe is one of the top destinations in Vermont for hiking. From easy, family-friendly paths to more challenging summit climbs, Stowe offers hikes that reward you with breathtaking views of the Green Mountains and Vermont’s picturesque landscape.
Easy Hikes
Cady Hill Forest
One of Stowe’s most popular multi-use trail networks for mountain biking, trail running and hiking, the Cady Hill Forest trail system spans 258 acres with 11 miles of trails. While the Cady Hill trail network is highly pursued by mountain bikers all over the northeast, it is also a popular destination for hikers and trail runners.
Kirchner Woods
The Kirchner Woods is a casual multi-use trail system under the cover of magnificent sugar maple trees, making it the perfect destination for leaf-peeping during the fall.
Moss Glen Falls
This is a short, easy hike to a spectacular waterfall, the tallest waterfall in Vermont, Moss Glen Falls. This is a great option for families and anyone who is looking for easier terrain.
Sunset Rock
Walking distance from Main Street, Sunset Rock is a short hike that leads to an overlook of the historic village and with a view of Mount Mansfield. It’s the perfect place for a picnic with a view.
Wiessner Woods
The Wiessner Woods is a forested trail complex which features casual, relatively flat trails for hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The loop is an easy woods walk and is just under three miles.
Moderate Hikes
Bingham Falls
One of the most popular waterfall hikes in Vermont due to its easy access, Bingham Falls is a much shorter moderate hike that leads to a grand waterfall. The hike itself is only about a quarter-mile down to the falls, but it is steeper at the bottom and often can be wet and slippery.
Nebraska Notch/Lake Mansfield Trail
While less well-known than some of Stowe’s more-popular intermediate trails, the Lake Mansfield Trail, also known as the Nebraska Notch Trail, showcases exceptional beauty in a secluded, serene setting.
Sterling Pond
The Sterling Pond Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Smugglers’ Notch, providing access to a unique mountain-top pond that is perfect for swimming, fishing (permit required) and observing wildlife.
Stowe Pinnacle
One of the most popular hikes in the area, the Stowe Pinnacle Trail is a moderate half-day hike that leads to one of the most photographed viewpoints in Vermont.
Advanced Hikes
Long Trail
As Vermont’s oldest long-distance hiking route, the Long Trail offers rugged terrain and dramatic elevation changes, rewarding experienced hikers with panoramic views from the ridgeline of Mount Mansfield.
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Cliff Trail
This short but technical hike lives up to its name, featuring steep scrambles and narrow ledges. The Cliff Trail is ideal for thrill-seekers looking for a vertical challenge and stunning summit vistas.
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Haselton Trail
Starting from the base of Stowe Mountain Resort, the Haselton Trail is a strenuous route that winds through dense forest before opening up to sweeping views near the summit.
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Hell Brook Trail
Regarded as one of the most difficult hikes in the state, Hell Brook is steep, rocky, and relentless—perfect for seasoned hikers in search of a challenge and breathtaking scenery.
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