Skier gliding on snowy slope under clear blue sky.

Things To Do

Nordic Skiing & Snowshoeing

With its mix of beautiful landscapes, scenic trails and a variety of options for all levels, Stowe is the perfect destination for those wanting to experience the best of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. These outdoor winter activities are a more relaxed way to enjoy Stowe’s winter wonderland, offering a fantastic alternative if downhill skiing or snowboarding isn’t your style.

People snowshoeing through a snowy forest.

Person skiing through a snowy forest trail.

Nordic Skiing

With one of the largest and most diverse trail systems in the United States, Stowe ranks as one of the top cross-country ski destinations on the east coast, including over 3,000 acres of conserved land. Stowe offers more than 120 kilometers of groomed ski trails, and more than 100 kilometers of backcountry skiing. Stowe has trails for every ability–from perfectly groomed tracks and smooth wide skating lanes to untracked back-country skiing. Stowe is also home to several Nordic skiing events, including the historic Stowe Derby.

Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is another great way to experience Stowe’s winter wilderness at a slower pace. It’s more accessible to many people, making it perfect for families, beginners and those seeking a less strenuous winter activity. Snowshoeing allows you to explore both groomed and backcountry trails. Snowshoes offer the same immersive connection to nature as hiking, allowing you to explore the winter landscape just as you would in the warmer months. Many beloved hiking spots, such as Wiessner and Kirchner Woods, become popular snowshoeing locations during the winter.

Popular Locations

Four people cross-country skiing through a snowy forest.

von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort

Home to the first cross-country ski center in the country, the von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort is a premier and historic location for cross-country skiing, backcountry skiing and snowshoeing. Ranked the #1 Best Cross-Country Ski Resort in North America by USA Today, the Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center is the largest cross-country ski center in Stowe, featuring 37 miles of groomed trails and 62 miles of backcountry trails suitable for skiers of all ages and abilities. Guests will need to purchase a trail pass to access their trail network and equipment rentals are available at the outdoor center.

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Stowe Mountain Resort

Stowe Mountain Resort might be best known for its downhill skiing, but the area around Stowe also has some of the best cross-country ski trails in the Northeast. The Cross Country Center at Stowe Mountain Resort is home to 45 kilometers of groomed trails and 30 kilometers of backcountry trails. You will need to purchase a pass to access these trails and there is a rental shop onsite that offers a wide selection of nordic snowsport gear. The easiest and prettiest trails follow the West Branch of the Little River and rise into the valley where Stowe’s first backcountry trails were cut. If you are willing to ascend on skis, Stowe Mountain Resort's cross-country trail system connects with the vast network of trails that belong to the von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort, and you should have a separate trail pass to access those trails.

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Stowe Recreation Path

A local favorite for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, the Stowe Recreation Path is a 5.3 mile-long path that stretches from Main Street all along Mountain Road and is a convenient way for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the scenic views of Stowe. Regularly groomed by Stowe Nordic in the winter months, the Stowe Rec Path is free to use and easily accessible. Please recreate respectfully and avoid disturbing the groomed tracks if you are not cross-country skiing. There are several parking areas along the rec path that allow you to explore different sections of the trail if you are looking for shorter excursions, perfect for little ones or those seeking a more relaxed pace.

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Smugglers' Notch via Route 108

In the summer and fall, Route 108 is a popular scenic drive through the historic Smugglers' Notch, which initially served as a secretive route for smugglers transporting embargoed goods from Canada into the United States in the early 1800s. The road through the notch was once again used as a smuggling route during prohibition in the 1920s. Due to its narrow and winding nature, the section of Route 108 through Smugglers' Notch (just passed Stowe Mountain Resort) is closed to vehicle traffic each winter, making it the perfect recreation area for cross-country skiers and snowshoers. This stunningly scenic drive turns into a winter recreator's playground, offering the same beautiful views without the vehicle traffic.

Catamount Trail

If you fancy distance on your Vermont Nordic tour, make Stowe your base and enjoy the beauty and challenges of The Catamount Trail, a 300-mile cross-country trail that runs the length of Vermont.

Person walks on a snowy forest path with sunlight streaming through trees.

Equipment Rentals and Tours

In addition to the trail networks that offer onsite rentals, there are several local retailers that provide equipment rentals in town, including AJ's Ski and Sports, Pinnacle Ski & Sports and Umiak Outdoor Outfitters. For a truly immersive experience, consider booking a guided snowshoe or cross-country ski tour with local experts who can introduce you to hidden gems and share their knowledge of Stowe’s natural and cultural history.

AJ's Ski and Sports

Pinnacle Ski & Sports

Umiak Outdoor Outfitters