When I was planning my own trip, I kept hearing over and over again that Stowe, Vermont in fall is the closest I’ll ever find to a real-life Stars Hollow and I was not disappointed. This town is an absolute picture during the fall, filled with fiery autumn hues and a charming small town atmosphere.
If you’re planning a New England fall road trip and only have 2-3 days to spend in Stowe before heading to your next destination, this curated list of best things to do in Stowe, VT is for you! I’ve only added places or activities that are especially unique or special so you can make the most of your visit to this enchanting New England destination.
- When is the best time to see fall foliage in Stowe, VT?
- Best Things to Do in Stowe, Vermont in Fall
- 1. Drive On Route 108 through Smugglers Notch State Park
- 2. Photograph Stowe Community Church
- 3. Explore Downtown Stowe & Stowe Main Street
- 4. Walk the Stowe Recreation Path to Emily’s Bridge
- 5. See the Red Covered Bridge
- 6. Rent a Boat at Waterbury Reservoir
- 7. Take the Gondola to the Top of Mount Mansfield
- 8. Drive the Scenic Auto Road
- 9. Take a Picture of Grandview Farm
- 10. Visit the Von Trapp Family Lodge & Brewery
- 11. Stop for Apple Cider Donuts & More at Cold Hollow Cider Mill
- 12. Tour the Ben & Jerry’s Factory
- 13. Sample Maple Syrup at Nebraska Knoll Sugar Farm
- 14. Escape the Percy Farm Corn Maze
- 15. Stop by the Stowe Foliage Arts Festival
- 16. Go on a Stowe at Night Lantern Tour
- 17. Hike Stowe Pinnacle
- 18. Hike Sunset Ridge Trail to the Summit of Mount Mansfield
- 19. Hike to Moss Glen Falls
- 20. Hike to Bingham Falls
- Where to Eat in Stowe, Vermont
- Where to Stay in Stowe, Vermont in Fall
- How Many Days to Spend in Stowe, Vermont in Fall
- Top Tips for Fall in Stowe, Vermont
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When is the best time to see fall foliage in Stowe, VT?
Vermont’s fall foliage season tends to begin in mid-September through early October. Do note that colors will peak in higher elevation areas so check fall foliage reports to determine which areas of the state are best for leaf peeping during your visit. Below are the list of best things to do in Stowe, VT specifically during the fall months of September and October.
Best Things to Do in Stowe, Vermont in Fall
🍁 THE MOST SCENIC ACTIVITIES IN STOWE, VERMONT IN FALL FOR AUTUMN HUES: Here are some of the best places to visit in Stowe, Vermont if you’re looking for picture-perfect spots that showcase the state’s vibrant fall colors.
1. Drive On Route 108 through Smugglers Notch State Park
Smugglers Notch is the name of a mountain pass between Mount Mansfield and the Sterling Range which Northern Vermonters used to illegally trade with Canada during the time of the Embargo Act of 1807.
I was initially confused when I read that about Smugglers Notch State Park for leaf peeping because I couldn’t find references to any specific trails (unlike Stowe Pinnacle Hike). I realized that most people are actually referring to the Smugglers Notch Scenic Drive, which is a 3.5 mile road on Route 108 that runs through the park. It’s the highway – not the park – that is iconic for scenic, windy views of fall foliage.
The scenic drive through Smugglers Notch is on Route 108. From Stowe, the drive is about 13 miles and takes 25 minutes to get to Smugglers Notch Resort. However, I’d plan on spending at least 1-2 hours here to stop at pull-outs and savor the drive.
Map for Smugglers Notch Drive: Start in Stowe & take Highway 108 towards Smugglers Notch Resort
📍 Address: Stowe Community Church Viewpoint
📷 Photo Tip: Be patient! We found this popular view of the switchbacks, boulders, and fall leaves at the end of the drive.
2. Photograph Stowe Community Church
Stowe Community Church is a non-denominational church located on the Main Street of downtown Stowe. It is one of the most photographed churches in New England and one of the best places to admire the vibrant fall colors that contrast against the white stucco and steeple.
The ideal photography spot is along Highway 108 and not in downtown so you can admire the backdrop of the autumn leaves behind the church. We were able to get fantastic views from the parking lot near Salon Salon, though there are plenty of other spots to choose from. If you visit during the day, please respect their business hours.
📍 Address: Stowe Community Church Viewpoint
3. Explore Downtown Stowe & Stowe Main Street
One of the best things to do in Stowe, Vermont in fall is to explore the downtown area and the iconic Stowe Community Church. With its historic architecture, boutique shops, art galleries, cafes and restaurants, downtown Stowe has that delightful blend of small town ambience and vibrant community life that feels straight out of Gilmore Girls.
Spend some time walking down Stowe Main Street and be sure to grab a cup of Vermont coffee and a hearty pantry breakfast at Butler’s Pantry as you discover this idyllic New England town. If you’re visiting later in the day, you can also check out Idletyme Brewing Company and try their local craft beer and pub food for lunch or dinner.
📍 Address: Stowe Community Church l Butler’s Pantry l Idletyme Brewing Company
4. Walk the Stowe Recreation Path to Emily’s Bridge
The Stowe Recreation Path is a scenic and leisurely trail that spans approximately 5.3 miles. This paved pathway is perfect for walking, jogging, and biking while winding through the picturesque town of Stowe, Vermont. You’ll easily spend a few hours strolling along while stopping in at shops, restaurants, and other local attractions along the way. If you’re looking for low-impact and less traffic, you can choose to take the Quiet Path which is a portion of the Stowe Recreation Path that is open to walkers and joggers only.
At the end of the trail, you’ll find the Gold Brook Covered Bridge (also known as Emily’s Bridge or Stowe Hollow Bridge). It’s one of many covered bridges that are characteristic of Vermont but is especially famous for the haunting legend about a jilted woman named Emily who hung herself from the bridge because her groom never showed up on their wedding day.
🗺️ Map of Stowe Recreation Path: Link
🚴🏻♀️ Bike Rental: AJ’s Ski & Sports (reserve online here)
📍 Where to Park: There are 4 main parking locations. Of the 4, I’d recommend parking at Stowe Community Church (if you’re coming from Main Street in Stowe Village) or Thompson Park (if you plan on completing the Percy Farm Corn Maze).
5. See the Red Covered Bridge
Not too far from Emily’s Bridge, you’ll find another classic wooden bridge that crosses the Gold Brook. Aptly named, the Red Covered Bridge is a covered bridge whose red exterior contrasts beautifully against the picturesque countryside, making it an ideal fall foliage photography spot. Even though the bridge is technically located in Morristown, it’s well worth the 10-15 minute drive to admire the architecture and scenery.
📍 Address: Red Covered Bridge
6. Rent a Boat at Waterbury Reservoir
The Waterbury Reservoir is a stunning, 860-acre body of water that is surrounded by 37,000 acres of the Mount Mansfield State Forest. In the fall, the forest literally explodes with fall colors that you can appreciate from any vantage point out on the water. Be sure to head to the Waterbury Center State Park and rent a boat so you can see the spectacular foliage for yourself.
⏰ Rental Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (2 hour rental, last boat goes out at 4:00 PM)
🎫 Rental Price: $39 (for tandem kayak or canoe)
📍 Address: Waterbury Center State Park
7. Take the Gondola to the Top of Mount Mansfield
Mount Mansfield is the highest peak in Vermont. From its summit, you’ll find an unparalleled perspective of the Green Mountains and the charming town of Stowe below. The Gondola Skyride is located near Stowe Mountain Resort and provides a leisurely ride to the top.
⏰ Gondola SkyRide Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM daily (last ticket sold at 4:15 PM)
🎫 Gondola SkyRide Tickets: $37
📍 Address: Gondola SkyRide
8. Drive the Scenic Auto Road
The Stowe Scenic Auto Road is a great way to see Mount Mansfield instead of hiking or taking the gondola ride. This 4.5 mile toll road zig zags past multiple lookout points where you can stop and admire the ever present hues of fall as you make your way to the top of the mountain where you’ll find views of Lake Champlain and Adirondack Mountains. Once you reach the end of the road, you can hike to the summit for even more breathtaking views.
⏰ Hours: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM (open between May and October, weather permitting)
🎫 Toll Road Pricing: $32 (per vehicle) & $12 (per passenger)
📍 Address: Stowe Scenic Auto Road
🚶🏻♀️Hike to Summit Distance: 3 mi round trip (1.5 mi each way)
⏰ Hike to Summit Duration: 2 hours
9. Take a Picture of Grandview Farm
Grandview Farm is a 100 year old barn and one of Stowe’s most iconic landmarks. During the fall, it’s one of the best places to snap a picture of the iconic red barn surrounded by call colors in the backdrop. It is private property so please be respectful.
📍 Address: Grandview Farm (not to be confused with the Vermont Grand View Farm located in Washington, VT).
10. Visit the Von Trapp Family Lodge & Brewery
Nestled in the heart of the Green Mountains in Stowe, the Von Trapp Family Lodge is a charming alpine resort founded by none other than the famous Von Trapp family of The Sound of Music. The lodge not only boasts an incredible origin story but also offers a blend of Austrian hospitality in the midst of breathtaking fall scenery. Whether you decide to stop by for an Austrian-style lager at the Von Trapp Bierhall or stay overnight in one of their European-style mountain rooms, you’re sure to find fall magic and a taste of Europe during your visit.
⏰ Von Trapp Bierhall & Gift Shop Hours: 11:30AM – 9:00PM daily (brewery tours are available at select times on Tuesday & Saturday)
📍 Address: Von Trapp Family Lodge
🏡 Hotel:Stay at the Trapp Family Lodge (⭐️ 8.6)
🍎 THE BEST SEASONAL ACTIVITIES IN STOWE, VERMONT IN FALL: Here are some of the best fall-related things to do in Stowe, Vermont that will get you in the holiday spirit.
11. Stop for Apple Cider Donuts & More at Cold Hollow Cider Mill
Located in Waterbury (~10 minutes south of Stowe), it’s absolutely worth venturing out of Stowe to stop at New England’s largest and most visited cider mill. Named after its original location at the base of Cold Hollow Mountains, the Mill is a family owned business that’s been operational since 1974.
While you’re here, you can watch a short video to learn about their old-fashioned cider process using a vintage rack-and-cloth press that enables them to produce up to 4,000 gallons of apple cider per day. Once you finish this self-guided “tour,” head to the cafe and bakery inside the farmhouse and order delicious fall bites. We went a bit overboard and ordered apple cider, apple cider donuts, apple coffee, and maple ice cream – all of which tasted incredible. You can also pick up lunch at the Barn next door but I’d personally recommend saving all your stomach space for the apple cider goods in the farmhouse.
⏰ Business Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
📍 Address: Cold Hollow Cider Mill
12. Tour the Ben & Jerry’s Factory
Continue eating your way through the fall season at the Ben & Jerry’s factory. While you’re here, you can take a 30-minute guided tour that takes you to the production floor and Flavor Room – and of course, no tour is complete without an ice cream sampling. Make sure to purchase your ticket in advance to guarantee a spot!
Afterwards, you can indulge in even more ice cream at the Scoop Shop (see menu for the latest flavors) and pay your respects to the flavors of the past at the Flavor Graveyard.
⏰ Hours: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily
🎫 Fee: $7
📍 Address: Ben & Jerry’s Factory
13. Sample Maple Syrup at Nebraska Knoll Sugar Farm
If you want to know the art of making maple syrup, then you’ll want to stop by Nebraska Knoll Sugar Farm. While fall isn’t the sugaring season, the farm remains open for tours where you can learn about the syrup-making process, explore the sugarbush (the forest of maple trees), and sample some of delicious maple syrup.
⏰ Hours: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (closed Wednesday & Thursday)
📍 Address: Nebraska Knoll Sugar Farm
14. Escape the Percy Farm Corn Maze
Up for a 30-minute challenge navigating through rows and rows of corn stalks? Then consider attempting the Percy Farm Corn Maze, after which you can walk the rest of the lovely Stowe Recreation Path.
If you’re willing to drive, you’ll find the Great Vermont Corn Maze in Danville. Located about an hour from Stowe, the Great Vermont Corn Maze spans over ten acres and is one of the largest corn mazes in New England. Check the website for opening hours and aim to buy tickets in advance, especially if you plan on visiting on a weekend.
⏰ Hours: variable
🎫 Fee: $8
📍 Address: Percy Farm Corn Maze
15. Stop by the Stowe Foliage Arts Festival
Every year in early October, the town of Stowe comes together to celebrate the local craftsmanship, food, and fall foliage at the Stowe Foliage Arts Festival. During this 3-day weekend event, you can shop for handcrafted goods, sample local food, listen to live music, or simply immerse yourself in a festive atmosphere that perfectly captures the essence of Vermont in the fall.
⏰ Hours: October 6-8, 2023 from 10:00 AM-5:00 PM
📍 Address: Topnotch Field
16. Go on a Stowe at Night Lantern Tour
If you’re equally interested in fall colors and fall spooks, then the Stowe at Night Lantern Tour may be just the experience you’re looking for. Only available during the fall, you’ll walk with nothing but a lantern as you listen to stories of the town’s post and eerie folklore about the resident ghosts of Stowe. It’s the perfect way to explore a different side of Stowe while still immersed in the fall spirit.
⏰ Hours: M,W,F at 8:00 PM (September & October); Saturdays are also available during the month of October
🎫 Fee: $12
📍 Address: Stowe Visitor Information Center
🥾 THE BEST OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES IN STOWE, VERMONT IN FALL: Here is a list of hikes of all difficulties where you’ll find yourself truly immersed in Vermont’s colorful forests.
17. Hike Stowe Pinnacle
The Stowe Pinnacle Hike is a 3.7 mile out-and-back trail that offers panoramic vistas of the Green Mountains, Mount Mansfield,and the town of Stowe. The trail is moderately difficult due to the continuous section of incline on your way to the top but the views at the top are absolutely worth it.
When you map the trailhead, it will take you to the starting point on Upper Hollow Road. However, there’s a path that starts from the Pinnacle Meadows parking lot which shortens the hike by about a mile (2.6 miles roundtrip). The parking lot can fill up fast but there’s plenty of parking on the side of the road.
🚶🏻♀️Distance: 3.7 mi (2.6 mi. If you park at Pinnacle Meadows Parking Lot)
⏰ Duration: 2 hours
🥵 Difficulty: Moderate
⛰️Elevation Gain: 1,561 ft
📍 Address: Pinnacle Meadows Parking Lot for a shorter ascent
🥾 Hiking Route: AllTrails
18. Hike Sunset Ridge Trail to the Summit of Mount Mansfield
If you’d prefer to hike to the top of Mount Mansfield (i.e. no gondola, no Scenic Auto Road), then the Sunset Ridge Trail is for you. This 6.0 mile trail starts at Underhill State Park and goes to the top of Mount Mansfield with gorgeous autumn colors along the way. The hike is challenging and can take anywhere between 3-5 hours depending on your comfort level. Be sure to take the Halfway House Trail up and the Sunset Ridge trail down for a slightly easier hike.
🚶🏻♀️Distance: 6.0 mi
⏰ Duration: 3-5 hours
🥵 Difficulty: Hard
⛰️Elevation Gain: 2,683 ft
📍 Address: Underhill State Park (for hike)
🥾 Hiking Route: AllTrails
19. Hike to Moss Glen Falls
Located about 5-10 minutes from downtown Stowe, you’ll find Moss Glen Falls. In just 10 minutes, you can hike from the trailhead to this serene waterfall that’s tucked away in the Vermont wilderness. You can also continue on along the Moss Glen Falls Trail, which is a 5.2 mile out-and-back path that takes about 2-3 hours to complete. It’s a short, easy-access stop along your journey chasing fall colors in Stowe and other parts of New England.
🚶🏻♀️Distance: <1 mi
⏰ Duration: 20 minutes (out-and-back)
🥵 Difficulty: Easy
⛰️Elevation Gain: 150 ft
📍 Address: Moss Glen Falls Trailhead
20. Hike to Bingham Falls
Another popular fall waterfall hike is Bingham Falls, which is a 0.5 mile, 1-hour hike. Though it’s not as easy as Moss Glen Falls and you’ll definitely want good hiking shoes to navigate the steep descent, you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views at the base of the 40-foot waterfall.
🚶🏻♀️Distance: <1 mi
⏰ Duration: 30-60 minutes
🥵 Difficulty: Moderate
⛰️Elevation Gain: 200 ft
📍 Address: Bingham Falls Parking & Trailhead
What to Skip When Visiting Stowe, VT
- Bragg Farm Sugar House – one of Vermont’s many quaint farmhouses where you can pick up local goods such as maple syrup, Vermont cheese and learn the history of maple syrup. I noticed that many of the goods could be purchased at a grocery store and they didn’t sell anything that was unique to the Sugar House. It’s no more than a 10-minute stop but I wouldn’t recommend going out of your way to include this as a must-see destination on a fall road trip.
- Hot Air Balloon Ride – perfect if you want an aerial view of fall colors in Stowe. However, I’d skip this because, while the views are unparalleled, it is expensive ($410 per person) and time consuming (3-4 hours of prep but only 1 hour of flight time). I personally wouldn’t recommend it if you’re only spending a few days in Stowe but worth doing if you have the means and more time in Stowe. Above Reality is the highest recommended hot air balloon vendor in the region.
- Sterling Falls Gorge – a short hike through Sterling Falls Gorge that takes you to three small falls. The hike is short at 0.5 miles and takes about 40 minutes out-and-back. It’s short and easy enough to add to your itinerary if you have time but I don’t personally think it’s super scenic or a must-see.
- Sunset Rock – a small park located near Stowe Village. You can hike ~10 minutes to get to the park area where you’ll find panoramic views of fall colors and Mt. Mansfield in the background. The views aren’t anything special compared to the places listed above so only do this if you have time to kill and you’re already near Stowe Village.
Where to Eat in Stowe, Vermont
😴Note, early to rise, early to bed could be the motto for this sleepy town. If you’re planning on having jam-packed days like us, you’ll want to plan out where to eat dinner as most kitchens close as early as 8/9 PM. It’s even better if you make reservations in advance as popular local spots may not have any available tables even if you get there 1-2 hours before closing. With that disclaimer, here are some of the top recommended restaurants and places to eat in Stowe, Vermont.
- Stowe Bee Bakery – bakery with tasty breakfast sandwiches & a delicious iced maple latte
- Butler’s Pantry – hearty American breakfast in downtown Stowe
- Cold Hollow Cider Mill – apple cider, apple cider donuts, & literally anything apple related
- Piecasso – great place for pizza
- Idletyme Brewing Company – diner food but better known for their craft beer
- Von Trapp Brewing Bierhall Restaurant – more pub food with an Austrian twist
Where to Stay in Stowe, Vermont in Fall
There are so many hotels to stay in Stowe, VT but they book out fast. If you’re unable to find accommodation in Stowe, consider broadening your search to other neighboring towns such as Morristown or Waterbury.
- TOP PICK: Brass Lantern Inn (⭐️ 9.3) Cozy b&B with a fantastic breakfast and conveniently located near downtown Stowe.
- MOST CENTRAL OPTION Green Mountain Inn (⭐️ 8.9) Historic inn located in the heart of Stowe Village.
- MOST UNIQUE: Trapp Family Lodge (⭐️ 8.6) An Austrian-inspired mountain lodge owned by the Von Trapp family of The Sound of Music. The rooms are somewhat dated but you won’t find a place with more enchanting history.
- MOST LUXURIOUS: The Lodge at Spruce Peak (⭐️ 8.5) Part of the Hyatt Residence family, The Lodge is a luxury ski-out hotel that’s located right next to the Gondola SkyRide.
- MOST MODERN: Tälta Lodge (⭐️ 8.6) Scandinavian-inspired hotel with relaxing views of the creek.
- MOST AMENITIES: Topnotch Resort (⭐ ️ 8.8) Resort & spa with a wide-range of on-site amenities and experiences.
How Many Days to Spend in Stowe, Vermont in Fall
I’d recommend having at least one full day but ideally 2 days to make the most of your fall trip to Stowe. If you plan on venturing outside of Stowe to any of the surrounding towns, I’d recommend 3-5 days.
- 🌟 Day 1: The Highlights. Start your day in Stowe Village, which includes photographing Stowe Community Church, exploring Stowe downtown, and walking the Stowe Recreation Path to Emily’s Bridge. Grab lunch in the downtown area before driving on Route 108 through Smugglers Notch State Park and then head to Cold Hollow Cider Mill or the Ben & Jerry’s Factory for an afternoon pick me up. Have dinner with a view at the Von Trapp Family Lodge & Brewery before joining your Stowe at Night Lantern Tour.
- 🍂 Day 2: Main Attractions + Extra Fall Foliage. Start your day hiking up Stowe Pinnacle for even more stunning fall views. For a different perspective of Mount Mansfield, take the gondola or drive up the Scenic Auto Road and stop for photos along the way. Take a sugar break at the Nebraska Knoll Sugar Farm and attempt a corn maze. If time allows, consider stopping by the Stowe Foliage Arts Festival or watch the sunset on a boat at Waterbury Reservoir.
- 🚙 Day 3-5: More Hikes, More Tows. If you have 3-5 days to spend, hike to Moss Glen Falls and Bingham Falls before heading to Montpelier, Waitsfield, Burlington, or Woodstock for the day.
Top Tips for Fall in Stowe, Vermont
- ✈️ The closest airport to Stowe is Burlington Airport (BTV), which is a full-service international airport. From the airport, Stowe is about a 45-minute drive.
- 🚗 Be sure to rent a car. I strongly recommend driving around so you can visit scenic places that are outside of Stowe Village that require a car (like Smugglers Notch).
- 📷 Stowe is close to other scenic fall towns in Vermont that you may want to consider visiting or staying at. Some sights that you think are in Stowe are actually in other towns but don’t seem that way because they are so close together:
- Morristown (10 min. drive) – where you’ll find the Red Covered Bridge
- Waterbury (15 min.) – where Cold Hollow Cider Mill, Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory, and the Waterbury Reservoir are located
- Montpelier (30 min.) – Vermont’s capital city
- Cambridge (30 min) – where you’ll find Smugglers’ Notch Resort
- Waitsfield (30 min.) – heart of Mad River Valley
- Burlington (40 min.) – Vermont’s largest city and home of Lake Champlain
- Woodstock (1.5 hrs) – home of Sleepy Hollow Farm and the Taftsville Covered Bridge
Final Thoughts: Is Stowe, Vermont Worth Visiting in Fall?
No New England fall trip is complete without a visit to Stowe, VT.
Imagine a canvas painted with the richest hues of oranges, reds, and golds — that’s Stowe in autumn. The air is crisp, the cider is hot, and the fall vibes are second to none. Whether you’re hiking up the trails, driving through Smugglers Notch, or just taking in the vibrant fall foliage, Stowe offers an unmatched fall experience. So to answer your question: yes, 100% – Stowe, Vermont is absolutely a must visit in the fall and everything you’ve been looking for in your next fall getaway.
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