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A Day in Smugglers' Notch
Since 1921, when the State of Vermont improved Route 108 through Smugglers’ Notch to accommodate automobile traffic, visitors of Stowe have been making the pilgrimage through the Notch and its tight hairpin turns. The journey through the Notch is spectacular in and of itself with towering cliffs, gigantic boulders and lush vegetation. It is awe inspiring! Simply put, a drive through the Notch is a must do for any Stowe visitor.
However, don’t let the journey stop at the top. Discover a range of activities for adventurers of all ages on the other side of the Notch. If you are gearing up to smuggle like a local, you’re going to want to hit up these fan favorites:
Sterling Pond Trail Hike
Start your day by taking in the views at Vermont’s highest, stocked fishing pond. The hike presents enough challenge to delight the experienced hiker while remaining accessible to novice hikers and families traveling with young children. Leaving from the parking area at the top of the Notch, the 2.2 mile round trip takes around 1.5 to 2.0 hours to complete. Hikers who complete the stepped trail are rewarded by a ridgeline with expansive views of the region and a tree-lined pond for fishing and dipping.
Locals’ tip: Make the short trip to the top of the Sterling Chairlift and take in views of the Lamoille Valley.
ArborTrek Canopy Adventures
1239 Edwards Road, Jeffersonville
After your hike, head down the mountain and soar through the Green Mountains on ArborTrek’s award-winning zip line canopy tour, named one of the “Top 10 Zip Lines in the U.S.” by USA Today. If that’s not enough monkeying around, tackle ArborTrek’s Treetop Obstacle Course or test your climbing prowess and nerve on the Climbing Adventure. Little trekkers, as young as 4 years of age, can join the fun on the ArborTrek Junior course.
Smugglers’ Notch Disc Golf Center
1239 Edwards Road, Jeffersonville, VT
Take a hike and toss some discs on the same grounds as the best in the world. Rated one of the Top 10 Disc Golf Destinations in the World, the Smugglers’ Notch Disc Golf Center has been selected to host the 2018 PDGA World Championships on September 2 - 9.
Boasting two 18-hole, championship courses (each with four tee boxes to accommodate varying levels of play and skill), Smugglers’ Notch provides the perfect place to start or to improve your game. Discs are available for purchase and rent at the Pro Shop, open daily during the summer from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Boyden Valley Winery & Spirits
64 Vermont Route 104, Cambridge
After a long day of hiking, zip lining and disc golfing, it’s time to rest and relax. Wrap up the day at Boyden Winery with a wine-tasting and cheese platter. Located just 12 minutes from Smugglers’ Notch along the Lamoille River, the family-run winery produces wines, ciders and spirits. The larger fourth-generation farm complex also produces sustainable beef, maple and liquor products and hosts weddings and large events.
Take a scenic, adventurous drive through Smugglers' Notch in Stowe, Vermont and discover activities for all ages. From zip lining and obstacle courses, to wine tastings, disc golf and day activities for families - this is a day trip you won't want to miss.
About the author:
Scott Walters is the Marketing Director & Course Manager for ArborTrek Canopy Adventures. ArborTrek offers year-round zip line eco-adventures ranging from the serene to the extreme. Escape the everyday rush and soar through the wilds of the Green Mountains of Northern Vermont. ArborTrek has been listed as one of the "10 Best Zipline Courses in the USA" by USA Today and as one of the "World's Coolest Zip Lines" by Travel + Leisure.
Carved between Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak, Smugglers’ Notch is one of Vermont’s most legendary mountain passes—a winding corridor of towering cliffs, dense forests and dramatic rock formations—that connects Stowe to Jeffersonville. Once a notorious smuggling route during Prohibition and the War of 1812, this rugged passage has a history as wild as the landscape itself.
The scenic byway through Smugglers' Notch is not open to vehicle traffic all year round as drivers can only traverse the route in late spring, summer and fall. While the road is closed to automobile traffic in the wintertime, it transforms into a winter playground for snowshoers and cross-country skiers.
As one of New England’s most sought-after scenic drives, particularly during fall foliage season, the journey through Smugglers’ Notch is an experience in itself, but don’t just pass through—be sure to stop and explore along the way. We've compiled some of the most popular activities and attractions to experience in the Notch.
Visit Barnes Camp Boardwalk
Located just beyond the parking entrance of Stowe Mountain Resort, the Barnes Camp Boardwalk is an informative and accessible trail through wetlands with an incredible view of Smugglers' Notch. While the boardwalk itself is rather short, it ultimately connects to longer hiking trails if you are looking to venture out, but make sure you have the appropriate gear, including sturdy, waterproof shoes. However the views from the boardwalk are some of the best and are worth the visit.
Pack a Picnic
There is a large picnic area soon after you enter the scenic drive on the right hand side of the road if you begin your drive in Stowe. The area sits right along the creek and is a great place to get out and explore, relax and take in the views with a quiet picnic.
Explore Twists and Turns
The historic Smugglers' Notch route is known for its winding nature and rocky scenery. In particular, there are a couple of infamous. hairpin turns that are a thrill to experience in the car, but there are also a couple pull-off and parking areas where you can get out and explore these rock formations on foot. Always watch out for vehicle traffic and do not block the road.
Hike to Sterling Pond
One of the most popular hikes in Smugglers' Notch, Sterling Pond is a moderate, half-day hike that leads to a stunning alpine pond. The hike to Sterling Pond is only about one mile each way and connects to a variety of additional trails to rewarding vistas looking out over the mountains.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Smugglers' Notch is home to some of the most scenic and the most challenging hikes in the area. There are a range of easy, moderate and more advanced hikes to cater to all different levels.
Cycling
While it is steep and strenuous in parts, the scenic byway through Smugglers' Notch is a popular challenge for cyclists. Watch for any cyclists and be sure to share the road.
Rock Climbing
The rugged natural terrain makes Smugglers' Notch a popular area for rock climbing. Stowe's premier mountain guide service, Sunrise Mountain Guides offers guided tours and instruction for individuals and groups, along with their local knowledge and expertise of the area.
Zip Lining
Soar amongst the treetops for an entirely new perspective. ArborTrek Canopy Adventures offers a supremely unique way to experience Smugglers' Notch. With zip line tours, obstacle courses and climbing adventures, ArborTrek offers experiences that range from serene to extreme and cater to adventurers of all different ages.
Vermont Canoe and Kayak
Just over the Notch in Jeffersonville, you can rent a canoe or kayak and take a guided paddle tour on the Lamoille River with Vermont Canoe and Kayak. Whether you're here for a scenic drive, an exhilarating adventure or a quiet moment immersed in nature, Smugglers’ Notch offers an experience unlike any other. Take your time, explore at your own pace and discover why this legendary mountain pass continues to captivate travelers year after year.
