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Sunset Rock

A popular location long before its protection, Sunset Rock was purchased for conservation in 1999. A short, bracing climb from the end of Sunset Street leads to a peak-a-boo view of Stowe Village. Climbing further up the trail leads to the upper overlook, and expansive views of the Green Mountains. 

The property contains a mix of forested and recently cut-over upland habitat types, which include a range of vegetative age and size classes from regenerating early successional sapling stands to pole-sized hardwood and a stand of log-sized white pine. The property is an early successional habitat, so it is anticipated that the forest structure and species composition will change significantly in the coming years. This mix of conditions provides habitat for wildlife including: deer, wild turkey, partridge and songbirds. Two carriage road-type trails and one steeper foot trail rising out of the Village are maintained on the property for public access.

Public Access

Sunset Rock is open for pedestrian recreation. Access the property from Sunset Street via the Sunset Rock Trail, or the parking lot on Taber Hill Road. Hunting, trapping and fires are not permitted. 

Trail Maps

Directions

Sunset Rock is located in Stowe Village off of Sunset Street or Taber Hill Road. Sunset Street access: From the intersection of Route 100 and 108 in Stowe Village, head north on Route 100. Bear right onto Sunset Street and walk to the end of the street. The Sunset Trail is marked and begins off to the right. Parking is available on Main Street or in any of the designated parking areas in Town. Please do not park on Sunset Street, all parking is reserved for residents.

Taber Hill Road access:  From the intersection of Route 100 and Route 108 in Stowe Village, head north on Route 100. Take your 3rd right onto School Street. After 0.3 miles, bear left onto Taber Hill Road. Travel for 0.3 miles and turn left into the Sunset Rock parking area. 

Facts

  • 23 acres
  • Stowe town land
  • Conserved in 1999
  • Stowe Village

I recall many wonderful evenings picnicking on Sunset Rock and watching the sun descend behind the spine of the Green Mountains. Annie Dwight, former SLT employee and Director

Sunset Rock