Autumn trees reflected in a misty lake beneath a colorful sunset sky.

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Fall Adventures in Stowe That Aren’t Hiking

There’s a reason hiking is one of the most popular ways to experience fall in Stowe. Miles of trails climb through forests bursting with color, opening to sweeping views of Vermont’s Green Mountains along the way. From an easy walk in the woods to a climb up Vermont’s highest peak, there’s a trail and a view for nearly every kind of adventure.

But hiking boots aren’t the only way to get out and explore during fall. Paddle beneath changing trees, pedal through town, take in the view from above or find your way through a classic corn maze. If you’re looking to experience the season beyond the trail, there are plenty of ways to do it.

Three kayakers on a calm lake beneath colorful autumn forested hills.

Paddle Through the Colors

Trade mountain views for their reflection on the water. Fall can be a beautiful time to paddle in and around Stowe, with changing forests reaching right to the shoreline and cooler days bringing a different feel to familiar waterways.

The Waterbury Reservoir is a popular spot to launch a kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard and explore more than 800 acres of water surrounded by forested hills and mountains. With multiple access points, you can choose between a short paddle close to shore or set aside more time to explore.

If you'd rather leave the planning and the gear to someone else, Umiak Outdoor Outfitters offers guided paddling experiences and rentals in the Stowe area. Vermont Canoe and Kayak in nearby Jeffersonville also offers guided river trips, rentals and other ways to get out on the water.

Keep in mind that water temperatures drop as fall progresses. Check the weather and current conditions before heading out, dress appropriately and make sure you have the necessary safety equipment.

Cyclist riding along a leaf-covered path beneath vibrant autumn foliage

See Fall on Two Wheels

A bike lets you cover more ground while still slowing down enough to take in the scenery, and there are options for nearly every kind of rider. For a relaxed ride, start with the 5.3-mile Stowe Recreation Path. The paved path follows the West Branch of the Little River through the heart of Stowe, passing fields, wooded stretches, bridges and plenty of places to stop for food or a drink along the way. Ride the entire path or hop on and off as you explore town.

Looking for a little more adventure? Head to Cady Hill Forest, just minutes from the village. Its vast network of mountain biking trails winds through more than 250 acres of forest, with terrain ranging from approachable trails to more technical riding. In fall, the combination of colorful forest, flowing singletrack and easy access from town makes it an especially fun way to experience the season.

You can also venture beyond Stowe to the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, a 93-mile four-season recreation trail stretching across northern Vermont. The wide, relatively gentle trail follows a former railroad corridor through small towns, farmland, forests and river valleys, making it a great option for riders looking to spend a few hours or a full day exploring. Lamoille Valley Bike Tours offers bike and e-bike rentals and guided experiences along the trail, making it easy to turn a ride into a fall day trip from Stowe.

Corn maze in autumn, surrounded by colorful trees and distant mountains.

Take the Gondola to the View

Not every mountain adventure requires a climb. The Gondola SkyRide at Stowe Mountain Resort carries you up Mt. Mansfield for a completely different perspective on fall. As you gain elevation, watch the landscape open below you, with views stretching across the surrounding Green Mountains and the patchwork of autumn color below.

It's an especially good option for travelers who want the payoff of an elevated foliage view without committing to a strenuous hike. Once you reach the top, spend some time taking in the view or make a reservation at the Cliff House Restaurant for lunch with a side of mountain scenery.

Because foliage changes with elevation, the view from the gondola can also look noticeably different from what you're seeing down in the village. Higher elevations typically begin changing earlier in the season, giving you another place to look for color during your visit.

The gondola operates seasonally, so always check current operating dates, hours and weather conditions before heading to the mountain.

Find Your Way Through a Corn Maze

Some fall adventures are less about how far you go and more about figuring out where you're going. Percy Farm Corn Maze is a longtime Stowe fall favorite, tucked into a working farm just off the Stowe Recreation Path. Follow the paths through rows of towering corn and see if you can find your way out without retracing too many steps.

The setting is part of the experience. Mountain views and surrounding farmland make the maze feel distinctly Stowe, and its location near the Recreation Path makes it easy to pair with a bike ride or walk through town.

It's an especially fun addition to a family fall itinerary, but you certainly don't need kids in tow to take on the maze. Operating dates and hours vary throughout the season, so check ahead before visiting.

Mountain biker riding through dense forest with autumn foliage

Cast a Line

Fall brings a change of pace to Vermont’s rivers and streams, making it a great time to spend a few hours on the water with a fly rod in hand. Cooler temperatures, colorful riverbanks and quieter stretches of water add to the experience, whether you’re an experienced angler or picking up a rod for the first time.

Stowe gives you access to several nearby rivers and streams, including the Winooski and Lamoille Rivers and their tributaries. If you’re new to the area, consider heading out with a local guide who can help with everything from choosing the right water and equipment to navigating seasonal conditions and regulations. Be sure to check current Vermont fishing regulations, licensing requirements and water conditions before heading out.

Zip Through the Trees

For an even more adventurous way to experience the season, see the changing forest from within the canopy. ArborTrek Canopy Adventures, located just beyond Stowe in Smugglers’ Notch, offers zip line canopy tours that send you through the trees on a series of zip lines, bridges and rappels.

Soar from platform to platform with colorful leaves above, below and all around you, experiencing the fall landscape from an entirely different perspective. Between the rush of each zip line and the quieter moments high among the trees, it’s an adventurous way to get right into the heart of Vermont’s fall foliage.

Find Your Fall Adventure

The leaves may be the star of the show each fall, but there are countless ways to experience them. No matter what kind of adventure fits your pace, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the season both in Stowe and throughout the surrounding area. Fall is one of the busiest times of year, so it’s always a good idea to book rentals, tours and other experiences in advance when possible. However you choose to explore, fall in Stowe is even better when you get out and experience it for yourself.

FIND A PLACE TO STAY

Make the most of your fall adventure with a stay right here in Stowe. Explore local lodging options and find the perfect home base for everything you want to experience.