Stowe VermontHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Stowe, Vermont.
1. Cady Hill Forest
SCENIC WOODLAND NETWORK
Cady Hill Forest offers a network of well-maintained trails winding through beautiful woodland terrain. The trail system provides options for hikers of various skill levels, from beginner to more experienced outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful forest atmosphere while exploring the diverse natural landscape.
2. Moss Glen Falls
PICTURESQUE WATERFALL TRAIL
Moss Glen Falls is an easy hiking destination featuring a stunning waterfall that cascades down a rocky cliff. The trail is relatively short and considered easy, making it accessible for families and casual hikers. Visitors are rewarded with spectacular views of one of Vermont's most photographed waterfalls.
3. Sunset Rock
PANORAMIC VALLEY VIEWS
Sunset Rock is a 1.1-mile trail that leads to a rocky outcrop offering panoramic views of Stowe Valley. The trail is considered easy to moderate with some elevation gain that happens rather quickly. As its name suggests, this spot is particularly magical during sunset when the valley is bathed in golden light.
4. Wiessner Woods
GENTLE FOREST EXPLORATION
Wiessner Woods features a 1.5-mile loop trail through 79 acres of beautiful forestland managed by the Stowe Land Trust. This little hike is essentially a walk in the woods without much elevation gain, making it perfect for all ages and abilities. The trail network includes the Harwood Ridge Trail, Sugar Shack Lane, and Meadow Trail, which offers pretty views of the rounded Dewey Mountain.
5. Bingham Falls
REFRESHING WATERFALL ADVENTURE
Bingham Falls offers a relatively short hiking trail that leads to a magnificent waterfall and swimming hole. The trail is rated as easy, though some sections near the falls require careful footing on sometimes slippery terrain. Visitors can enjoy the refreshing mist from the falls and, during warmer months, take a dip in the natural pool at the base of the waterfall.
6. Barnes Camp Loop
HISTORIC NOTCH VIEWS
Barnes Camp Loop is a 1.5-mile trail featuring a universally accessible boardwalk and dramatic views of Smuggler's Notch. While the trail gains just 390 feet of elevation, it happens rather quickly, making this hike easy to moderate in difficulty. The loop is best hiked clockwise and allows explorers to experience a section of the historic Long Trail without a major time commitment.
7. Stowe Recreation Path
SCENIC PAVED PATHWAY
The Stowe Recreation Path is a paved pathway that winds through the Vermont countryside offering beautiful mountain views. This easy trail is perfect for casual walks, jogging, or biking, making it accessible to visitors of all fitness levels. The path crosses the West Branch River multiple times via wooden bridges, providing picturesque scenes throughout all seasons.
8. Stowe Pinnacle
REWARDING SUMMIT VIEWS
Stowe Pinnacle is a 3.6-mile round trip trail that steadily climbs through the woods to an open, rocky outcrop. With approximately 1,476 feet of elevation gain, this moderate hike rewards travelers with some of the best panoramic views in Vermont. The summit is particularly spectacular during fall foliage season when hikers feel immersed in beautiful autumn colors.
9. Sterling Pond Trail
ALPINE LAKE ADVENTURE
Sterling Pond Trail takes hikers through Smuggler's Notch to a beautiful alpine lake nestled in the mountains. The moderate trail involves some steep sections but rewards hikers with access to the highest trout pond in the state of Vermont. The pristine mountain setting offers opportunities for fishing, photography, or simply enjoying the tranquil mountain atmosphere.
10. Elmore Mountain
FIRE TOWER LOOKOUT
Elmore Mountain is a moderate hiking trail located just outside Stowe in nearby Morrisville. The trail leads to a historic fire tower that provides exceptional 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Elmore below. This hike is particularly popular during fall foliage season when the landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of autumn colors.