Stowe Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

Stowe is often called the “Ski Capital of the East,” but that moniker only scratches the surface of this quintessential Vermont village. Nestled at the foot of Mount Mansfield, the state’s highest peak, Stowe is a place where steepled churches, covered bridges, and rolling pastures create a scene straight out of a storybook. Whether you are carving down the “Front Four” in deep powder or sipping a hazy IPA on a sun-drenched patio, the town radiates an alpine charm that feels both rugged and refined.

The magic of Stowe lies in its ability to balance world-class tourism with small-town authenticity. You are just as likely to see a muddy Subaru with a canoe on top as you are a luxury SUV valeting at a five-star resort. The air here always smells like pine needles or woodsmoke, and the local commitment to preserving the land ensures that the Green Mountains remain the star of the show, regardless of the season.

The Sound of Music Connection

One of the most unique aspects of Stowe’s cultural fabric is its deep connection to the Von Trapp family, whose story was immortalized in The Sound of Music. After fleeing Austria during World War II, the family settled in Stowe because the rolling hills reminded them of their homeland. Today, the Trapp Family Lodge remains a working hotel and farm still owned by the family.

Visitors can tour the property to learn the real history behind the film, snowshoe on the land, or visit the family cemetery where Maria and the Baron are buried. It brings a touch of European history and Austrian hospitality to Vermont, complete with a bierhall that serves lagers brewed on-site according to German purity laws.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Stowe Mountain Resort - The premier ski destination in the East offering 116 trails across two mountains. Day passes vary by date but often exceed $150; located 7 miles from the village center.

Smugglers’ Notch State Park - A narrow, winding pass through 1,000-foot cliffs featuring caves and boulders. Admission is free, but the road is closed to cars in winter; located 8 miles north of town.

Ben & Jerry’s Factory - The ice cream giants offer tours and a “Flavor Graveyard” just down the road. Tours cost about $6 and are located 9 miles south in Waterbury.

Moss Glen Falls - A stunning 125-foot waterfall accessible via a short scenic trail. Free entry and located just 3 miles from the historic village.

Cold Hollow Cider Mill - A legendary spot for watching cider pressing and eating hot cider donuts. Free to enter; located 8 miles south of Stowe village.

Planning Your Visit

Getting to Stowe is easiest by car, via Interstate 89, though the nearest major airport is Burlington International (BTV), about 45 minutes away. While the village is walkable, having a vehicle is essential for reaching the mountain, trailheads, and nearby attractions. If you are visiting in winter, an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) vehicle with snow tires is not just recommended; it is often necessary to safely navigate the mountain roads and snowy driveways.

Packing for Vermont requires a strategy of layers. The weather in the mountains can change rapidly, with sunny mornings turning into chilly, rainy afternoons. Even in summer, bring a fleece or light jacket for the evenings. If you plan on dining out, “Vermont Casual” is the rule, jeans and flannels are acceptable almost everywhere, even in upscale restaurants.

Stowe is a destination that truly changes personality with every season, offering a different but equally compelling experience whether you visit for the white of winter or the gold of autumn. No matter when you arrive, the mountain hospitality remains the same.