Coming to visit Stowe in Autumn? This little town turns into a fall haven with so many fun activities to do and with the changing of the leaves everything is that much better! Check out our list of best things to do in Stowe in the Fall.
10. Waterfall sightseeing
You can never go wrong with a little waterfall sightseeing. Only 5 minutes out of downtown Stowe, Moss Glen Falls is a beauty not far from reach. The hike is beginner friendly and can range from a 20 minutes half mile hike to a 3 hour, uphill, 4 mile hike. If you catch this trail at the right time of year you may just decide on taking a trail less traveled and not regret it.
View more information about the Moss Glen Falls hike here for correct directions and possible closures.
9. Mountain Biking
Stowe mountain biking trails will take you into the natural landscapes of the Vermont hills. Trails allow you to visit the inner beauty of fall foliage to locations unaltered by roads or buildings.
The majority of Stowe mountain biking trails are free and for public use. You can find bike rentals throughout the town and many hotels are even bike friendly and can provide a rental for you if you know to ask.
A few of the popular trails for beginners are Cady Hill Forest, Adams Camp, Sterling Forest, and Trapp Family Lodge.
8. Covered Bridges
Vermont is famous for their covered bridges! If you’re driving around to see the fall leaves, you’re likely to come across one or two on your way. Hop out of the car to take a unique picture in front of the bridge! A popular covered bridge in Stowe you can visit is the Gold Brook Covered Bridge (Emily’s Bridge). It was built in 1844 and has been used for over 150 years.
7. Ride in a Hot Air Balloon
What better way to see the fall leaves changing color than from above? A hot air balloon ride will give you a dreamy birds-eye view of the quaint mountain town. On a sunny day, you’ll be able to see miles of scarlet, rust, and golden treetops.
From above you can often see some of the wildlife that inhabits the woods of Stowe including moose, wild turkeys, deer, red-tailed hawks, and black bears. Be prepared as you graze over the colorful foliage and the occasional lake or pond that will reflect the balloon in the autumn sky.
Hot air balloon trips can be booked through Above Reality Hot Air Balloon Rides.
6. Boat ride through the foliage
Take your leaf-peeping to the water! Hop on a boat with a tour guide or take out a small one on your own to get a better look at the fall scenery. Pictures showing how the leaves reflect off the water can’t be beat! And, if you get out early enough you may be able to catch the early morning rays shining through the trees when the water is still undisturbed.
A Stowe boat ride is truly a uniquely peaceful experience that allows you some time alone with nature in its most beautiful state.
You can book a boat tour with The Green Mountain Inn who offers options for full day, partial day, and even hourly rate rides.
5. Fall Hiking - Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak
Stowe is a mountain town known for their hiking and stunning foliage. See the best view from Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak! There are many trail options that cater to all levels of ability. Make it a full day event with a challenging trek or simply take a light walk through the leaves.
4. Apple Cider Taste Testing
It wouldn’t be fall in Vermont without apple cider! Cold Hollow Cider Mill is a must for first-timers to Stowe. Try traditional cider, hard cider, and apple cider donuts all made from their local apple orchard. The fresh, tasty zing of their hot apple drink will impress even the toughest critic.
3. Fall Ziplining
Get up close and personal with the fall foliage by booking a zipline tour! Zip through the trees at lightning speed or take a leisurely ride through the colorful forest. Similar to a hot air balloon ride a zipline tour gives you a birds eye view of the leaves except with a little more excitement.
ArbortTrek Canopy Adventures is a great option for Stowe ziplining as it is open year round and especially encouraged during the fall. Make sure to bring a light jacket for when you’re zooming through the brisk air!
2. Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour
Did you know Ben & Jerry’s started right here in Stowe? Their factory proudly sits in the middle of town, ready for you to sample a taste. Tours are under an hour and include several delicious bites of ice cream to try! Watch the process from start to finish and learn the history of the iconic ice cream brand. Your tastebuds will thank you!
1. Scenic Drives
The most popular scenic drive in Stowe is the winner for a reason. Bring your camera, you’re going to want to snap pictures of Smuggler’s Notch as you wind through the mountain. Thousands of visitors come to Stowe each year just to take this slow drive through the stunning foliage.
If you have some spare time on your trip and just need something to wind down the day you can’t go wrong with a relaxing drive through the Stowe foliage.
Bonus Tip:
If it’s not too late in the season make sure to make your way out to some historic golf courses Stowe has to offer. You may just find you hit the ball further with a slight breeze at your back.
You’ll find that there is so much to do while visiting Stowe. You may just have to stay a few more days! Whatever you end up doing while in Stowe, make sure to take advantage of this truly unique destination Vermont has to offer.
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