Red barn with a silver roof on a grassy field, mountains in the background.

Things To Do

Scenic Drives

Where the journey is just as beautiful as the destination and every turn reveals a new view worth slowing down for. Buckle up, go at your own pace and discover pockets of Vermont that feel untouched by time—hidden valleys, mountain vistas and quiet corners where the scenery speaks for itself.

Curving road through vibrant autumn forest with mountains in background.

Autumn forest path with fallen leaves and wooden fence under a canopy of orange foliage.

Stowe is home to some of the most breathtaking scenic drives in New England, where every season offers a unique and stunning backdrop. From the vibrant colors of fall foliage to the snow-covered landscapes of winter, the lush greenery of summer, and the fresh blooms of spring, Stowe's drives provide year-round opportunities to experience the beauty of Vermont. Uncover Stowe's untrodden back roads to appreciate sprawling scenery and discover hidden gems throughout the area.

Popular Routes

Sunlit forest path with autumn leaves and misty air.

Elmore Mountain and Randolph Road

Head North out of Stowe and turn right onto Randolph Road. Stop and visit Moss Glen Falls, the tallest waterfall in Vermont, before continuing on Elmore Mountain Road. This drive will take you out past the Old Elmore Cemetery and includes a magnificent view west, across to Mount Mansfield and the Sterling Range.

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Moscow and Little River

This is a shorter drive along the banks of the Little River as it flows from the lower village to Adam's Mill in Moscow, a small hamlet named after Moscow, Russia. Extend your trip slightly by passing Barrows Road and taking Trapp Hill Road to pass the von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort to take in the scenic views on the property.

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Smugglers' Notch to Jeffersonville

The scenic drive through "The Notch" is a popular drive among visitors and locals alike. The historic smuggling route is known for its winding nature and rocky cliffs. The road through Smugglers' Notch is only open to drivers in late spring, summer and fall. The road is closed to automobile traffic in the winter, but transforms into a winter playground for snowshoers and cross-country skiers.

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Sterling Valley and Mud City

The Sterling Valley is unique in its backcountry feel. Explore the two valleys running south from the crescent of the Sterling Range. Both were once busy farm areas; now only a few active farms remain. This drive brings you through the quaint, local backroads of town and takes you past a classic, red covered bridge on Sterling Valley Road.

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Stowe Hollow

Stowe Hollow is nestled at the foot of the Worcester Range, along the Gold Brook. Perhaps the most famous covered bridge in the area, Gold Brook Covered Bridge, also known as "Emily's Bridge," is located at the intersection of Gold Brook Road and Covered Bridge Road. Follow Stowe Hollow Road along the scenic mountain range and then take the legendary Route 100 back to Stowe. On your way back, you will pass two of Vermont's most popular attractions: Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream Factory and Cold Hollow Cider Mill.

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Couple sitting on grassy hill, admiring lush green mountains.

Auto Toll Road at Stowe Mountain Resort

For a one-of-a-kind drive to the top of Vermont, ascend the historic Auto Toll Road at Stowe Mountain Resort. This 4.5-mile scenic drive winds its way to the summit ridge of Mount Mansfield, offering breathtaking views from Vermont's tallest peak. The Toll Road is open seasonally from late May through mid October and costs $35 per car plus an additional $13 per passenger.