As Vermont gets ready to put on its annual foliage show, we’ve assembled our five favorite family-friendly hikes in Stowe, Vermont. Whether you’re looking for spectacular views, easy-access from the village, a little history, or a great picnic spot, we’ve got a trail recommendation for you.
Pinnacle Meadow - With a moderate elevation gain of 800 feet, the .25 mile Pinnacle Meadow trail offers a short hike to spectacular views of Mt. Mansfield and the Green Mountains. Surrounded by state forest, you’ll enjoy foliage views at every turn as you make your way to the meadow. Feeling adventurous? Continue on from the meadow to make your way to the Pinnacle Summit.
Best for: A short climb with sweeping views of the Green Mountains.
* Local tip: Can you find “the face” on Mt. Mansfield? Hint: the forehead is the northernmost peak. From there, follow the ridgeline to find the nose, lips, chin, and Adam's apple.
Sunset Rock - Short and steep, the forested Sunset Rock trail begins in town and leads to a peek-a-boo view of the village below. Keep an eye out for birds and other wildlife as you walk through the stand of old White Pine, and enjoy artwork along the trail by Stowe Elementary School students.
Best for: Easy access from the village and iconic views of Stowe.
* Local tip: Search for the Glacial Kettle Hole, just above Sunset Rock, formed 10,000 years ago by small pebbles caught in a whirlpool as glaciers receded.
Wiessner Woods - A family favorite, Wiessner Woods offers a network of trails with very little elevation gain. The trails pass through an open meadow with views of Mt. Mansfield, a Spruce and Pine hardwood forest, and an old sugar shack. Keep an eye out for the famous Gnomes of Wiessner Woods—they can be hard to spot, but they are out there!
Best for: Young children and a gnome scavenger hunt.
* Local tip: If you’re hiking with a four-legged family member, check the mailbox at the sugarhouse for dog treats!
The Mill Trail - An old logging road, the Mill Trail is an easy, universally-accessible trail suitable for all ages and abilities. You’ll walk through a Hemlock forest, before passing the historic Moravian Cabin and old cellar holes that hint at the property’s past. The trail follows the West Branch of the Little River to an incredible view of Bingham Falls.
Best for: A little history and a safe, easy view of Bingham Falls.
* Local tip: The Bingham Falls Trail is popular, but can be dangerous with young children. You get the same views from a much safer vantage point on the Mill Trail.
The Quiet Path - Loop through wide open fields, skip rocks in the West Branch of the Little River, and take in expansive views of Mt. Mansfield along this relaxing 1.8 mile path. You’ll discover numerous stops along the river where you can enjoy a picnic or simply relax by the water. Keep your eye out for the inviting hammock garden!
Best for: A flat walk and the best picnic spots in town.
* Local tip: What better way to end a walk in town than with a Maple Creemee at the Red Barn Ice Cream Shop or Stowe Sweets? You can walk to both by connecting to the Rec Path.
However you spend your afternoon in the woods—chasing gnomes, collecting leaves, throwing rocks in the river, or just enjoying the view—this is the season Stowe’s trails are built for. Complete one hike (or all five!) and stop by Stowe Land Trust at 6 Sunset Street in the village for a free sticker.