Stowe isn't just a ski town. Sure, the winter slopes draw crowds, but summer and fall reveal Stowe's true character: a mountain village ringed by trails that climb to rocky summits, alpine ponds, and the highest peak in Vermont.
The hiking here spans every ability level. Families can stroll the paved Recreation Path or climb to Sterling Pond. Experienced hikers can tackle Mount Mansfield via technical routes like Hell Brook. And everyone can find something in between—moderate climbs with rewarding views that capture the essence of the Green Mountains.
Here's your complete guide to hiking in and around Stowe.
Best Easy Hikes
Stowe Recreation Path
- Distance: 5.3 miles one way
- Difficulty: Easy (paved)
A paved multi-use path that winds through the valley from Stowe Village toward the mountain. Perfect for families, strollers, and casual walks. Mountain views throughout, with access points at several parking areas along the route.
Moss Glen Falls
- Distance: 0.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
A short walk to a beautiful 125-foot waterfall. Best viewed after rain or during spring snowmelt. The trail can be slippery; stick to the viewing areas rather than climbing on rocks.
Bingham Falls
- Distance: 0.8 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
A short but somewhat steep trail leads to a stunning waterfall in a rocky gorge. Popular swimming hole in summer (cold!). The area has seen increased traffic—please practice Leave No Trace.
Moderate Hikes
Stowe Pinnacle
- Distance: 2.8 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,520 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time: 2-3 hours
The classic Stowe hike. Stowe Pinnacle rises directly behind the village, and its rocky summit offers one of the best views of Mount Mansfield anywhere. The trail climbs steadily through forest before emerging onto open ledges for the final push.
Parking is limited at the Pinnacle Meadows trailhead—arrive early on weekends or consider the shuttle from town.
Sterling Pond
- Distance: 2.4 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time: 1.5-2.5 hours
Starting from the Smugglers' Notch ski area parking lot, this trail climbs to Vermont's highest pond. Sterling Pond sits in a beautiful mountain setting at 3,000 feet, surrounded by forest with views of the Sterling Range. Great for a quick mountain lake experience.
Nebraska Notch
- Distance: 4.2 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 800 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time: 2.5-3.5 hours
This trail passes through the interesting Nebraska Notch, a gap in the mountains with impressive cliffs including the 'Elephant's Head' formation. The hike continues to Taylor Lodge, an open-front cabin on the Long Trail.
Challenging Hikes
Mount Mansfield via Sunset Ridge
- Distance: 6.6 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,550 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Time: 5-7 hours
The most scenic route up Vermont's highest peak. Sunset Ridge offers extensive above-treeline hiking with views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks. See our full Mount Mansfield guide for details.
Smugglers' Notch to The Chin
- Distance: 4.8 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,800 feet
- Difficulty: Very Strenuous
- Time: 4-6 hours
The most direct route to Mansfield's summit. Steep, with ladders and scrambling. A serious workout but efficient. Note: Smugglers' Notch Road (Route 108) closes in winter.
Sterling Range Traverse
- Distance: 8+ miles
- Elevation Gain: 3,000+ feet
- Difficulty: Very Strenuous
- Time: 6-8 hours
A full-day adventure across the Sterling Range, hitting multiple summits including Madonna Peak and Morse Mountain. Less crowded than Mansfield with excellent ridge walking.
Smugglers' Notch Area
The dramatic mountain pass between Stowe and Jeffersonville is a destination in itself. Route 108 climbs through massive boulders—some as big as houses—that have fallen from the cliffs above.
Big Spring
A short walk from the road leads to a powerful spring gushing from the mountainside—cold, clear water that's been filtering through rock for years.
Smugglers' Cave
A short scramble up from the road leads to a rock cave with views down into the notch. The bouldering here is popular with climbers.
Route 108 Note
The notch road is steep, narrow, and winding—RVs and trailers are prohibited. It closes for winter, typically November through May. Check conditions before planning a trip that requires driving through.
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Hike
- June-October: Prime hiking season
- July-August: Best weather; busiest trails
- September-October: Peak foliage; stunning colors
- May: Mud season—trails can be closed or very wet
Where to Stay
Stowe has abundant lodging from luxury resorts to budget motels. The village itself is walkable with restaurants, shops, and services. For a backcountry experience, several Long Trail shelters are accessible from Stowe-area trails.
Parking and Access
Popular trailheads fill quickly on summer and fall weekends. Consider:
- Arriving before 8 AM
- Using the Stowe shuttle (seasonal)
- Hiking on weekdays when possible
- Having backup trail options ready
Quick Reference: Stowe Hikes
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stowe Pinnacle | 2.8 mi | Moderate | Views of Mansfield |
| Sterling Pond | 2.4 mi | Moderate | Mountain pond |
| Bingham Falls | 0.8 mi | Easy | Waterfall |
| Mansfield (Sunset) | 6.6 mi | Strenuous | State highpoint |
Stowe offers hiking to match any ambition, from gentle valley strolls to Vermont's highest summit. The village makes an ideal base for exploring the Green Mountains, with trails starting right from town. Whether you're looking for a quick waterfall visit or an all-day alpine adventure, Stowe delivers.
