If you are seeking a place where mountains, woodlands, waterfalls, and easy-going trails come together, all wrapped in classic New England charm, Stowe, Vermont is a top choice. Booking a vacation rental with Stowe Mountain Rentals gives you a comfortable home base near many Stowe attractions and beloved natural destinations.
Smugglers’ Notch & Sterling Pond
Smugglers’ Notch State Park lies in the Green Mountains, forming a dramatic pass that separates mountains and offers access to rugged terrain and scenic hikes.
One of the most popular hikes from the Notch is the Sterling Pond Trail. This is a moderate hike of roughly 2 to 3 miles round-trip, with about 880 feet of elevation gain. The trail climbs through forested areas, finishing at a tranquil mountain pond.
Sterling Pond offers a serene escape. Many visitors enjoy wildlife viewing, and in some seasons the pond is suitable for activities like fishing with a valid license or swimming when conditions allow. For those wanting extra adventure, the pond links to longer-distance trails, including sections of the long-distance Long Trail, affording broader access to the surrounding mountains.
Choosing a rental with Stowe Mountain Rentals places you within easy reach of the Notch and the Sterling Pond trailhead, letting you begin your hike with minimal driving.
Moss Glen Falls
Moss Glen Falls is a short-walk waterfall near Stowe and is a popular choice for a quick nature visit. The trail to the falls is easy and short, roughly a quarter mile one-way from the parking area.
The waterfall is scenic, with water pouring over rock and creating a lovely forest-waterfall setting. The area is perfect for photos or a brief rest in nature. Staying in a Stowe Mountain Rentals property makes it easy to enjoy this natural attraction early in the morning or later in the afternoon when it is less crowded.
Stowe Pinnacle
The Stowe Pinnacle Trail is a moderately strenuous hike of about 2.8 miles round-trip, winding up to a rocky summit that provides sweeping panoramic views across the Green Mountains.
From the top, you can see nearby ranges, ridges, and distant peaks, creating a classic New England mountain vista. The hike is ideal for those who want a workout combined with rewarding scenic views. Staying in a Stowe Mountain Rentals property allows you to start your hike without a long drive, giving you more time to enjoy the summit and surrounding nature.
Stowe Recreation Path & Wiessner Woods
The Stowe Recreation Path is a smooth, paved 5.3-mile greenway that meanders through meadows, woods, and alongside the West Branch River. It is perfect for walking, cycling, or rollerblading and is accessible for nearly all levels, including families with children or people seeking a leisurely stroll.
For a quieter forest walk, Wiessner Woods offers a tranquil loop through maple, beech, and pine woods. Whether you want a gentle nature walk, a morning run, or a peaceful place to enjoy the outdoors, these paths provide easy access to natural beauty. Staying in a Stowe Mountain Rentals property means you are never far from these trails and can enjoy them at your convenience.
Tips for Enjoying Stowe Outdoors
Variety is one of Stowe’s greatest strengths. From gentle greenways to alpine ponds and mountain summits, the area has trails for every kind of traveler, from families to seasoned hikers. Mix up your scenery with waterfalls like Moss Glen Falls, high-elevation ponds such as Sterling Pond, panoramic summits like Stowe Pinnacle, and peaceful riverside forests along the Recreation Path and Wiessner Woods.
Plan your visit according to the season. Trails like Sterling Pond or mountain ridges are best from late spring through fall, while the Recreation Path and waterfall trails are accessible year-round. Staying in a Stowe Mountain Rentals property gives you a comfortable base to enjoy all of these experiences at your own pace.
Stowe’s beauty lies not only in majestic mountains and rugged trails but also in easy-going paths, quiet woods, gentle rivers, and waterfall escapes. By booking a vacation rental with Stowe Mountain Rentals, you can immerse yourself in this natural splendor while enjoying the comfort and convenience of your own home away from home.
Book Your Stowe Adventure Today
There is no better way to experience all that Stowe has to offer than by staying in a vacation rental with Stowe Mountain Rentals. Enjoy the freedom to explore scenic trails, visit waterfalls, or simply relax in your private retreat after a day outdoors.
Our Stowe vacation rentals are conveniently located near Stowe’s most popular natural destinations, giving you the perfect balance of adventure and comfort. Don’t wait! Book your Stowe vacation rental today and start planning your outdoor getaway in one of Vermont’s most beautiful regions.
If you’re planning your next getaway, few destinations balance natural beauty, local charm, and year-round adventure quite like Stowe, Vermont. From scenic hikes to cozy cafés and covered bridges, this mountain town is full of surprises waiting to be discovered. Here are 10 hidden Stowe Vermont attractions to explore—and when you’re ready to relax, be sure to book your vacation rental with Stowe Mountain Rentals for the perfect home base.
Wander the Heart of Stowe Village
Begin your trip in the charming downtown area, where old-world New England architecture and locally owned boutiques set the tone. Stroll along Main Street, browse artisan shops, or enjoy a warm drink at one of the cozy cafés. It’s the perfect way to ease into Stowe’s relaxed, welcoming rhythm before returning to your Stowe Mountain Rentals property for a quiet evening in.
Discover Moss Glen Falls
Hidden just outside of town, Moss Glen Falls is one of Vermont’s most picturesque waterfalls. A short and easy hike leads to this stunning cascade surrounded by lush forest—ideal for a peaceful photo stop or a nature break in any season. It’s a refreshing reminder of how close natural beauty is to every Stowe Mountain Rentals home.
Bike or Stroll the Stowe Recreation Path
This 5.3-mile paved path winds through meadows, alongside streams, and past scenic bridges, offering one of the best ways to experience Stowe’s natural beauty. Whether you walk, bike, or cross-country ski in winter, the Recreation Path is a family-friendly gem that feels both accessible and serene.
Take in the Views from Mount Mansfield
For sweeping vistas of Vermont’s Green Mountains, head to Mount Mansfield—the state’s tallest peak. You can hike, drive the Auto Toll Road, or take the gondola to enjoy panoramic views that stretch for miles. It’s a classic Stowe experience that never feels crowded, and it’s just a short drive from many Stowe Mountain Rentals properties.
Visit the Gold Brook Covered Bridge (“Emily’s Bridge”)
Tucked away in a quiet corner of town, this 19th-century covered bridge is both charming and steeped in local legend. Whether you’re drawn by its history or its rustic beauty, the Gold Brook Covered Bridge is worth the short detour for a glimpse into Stowe’s past and a great spot for photos.
Explore Local Art and Culture
Step inside the Helen Day Art Center, located in a historic building in the heart of the village. This community gallery showcases local and regional artists through rotating exhibits, workshops, and events—making it a lovely indoor stop between outdoor adventures. After a cultural afternoon, return to your Stowe Mountain Rentals vacation home and unwind by the fire.
Follow the Flavors of Stowe
From local cider mills and creameries to farm-to-table restaurants, Stowe’s culinary scene is filled with flavor. Sample small-batch cheeses, sip fresh-pressed cider, or stop by a café serving locally roasted coffee. Each bite offers a taste of Vermont’s artisan spirit, and your fully equipped kitchen at Stowe Mountain Rentals makes it easy to bring local ingredients back and create your own memorable meal.
Experience the Magic of Fall Foliage
While Stowe is beautiful year-round, autumn transforms it into a canvas of reds, oranges, and golds. Drive the scenic roads, take a hike through the woods, or simply enjoy the view from your rental’s deck. Even after peak foliage, the crisp air and mountain backdrop are enchanting, and Stowe Mountain Rentals properties let you enjoy it all in comfort.
Find Solitude on the Backcountry Trails
Beyond the popular paths, Stowe offers countless lesser-known trails perfect for quiet exploration. Try the Wiessner Woods Trail for a tranquil forest walk, or the Sterling Valley Loop for a gentle adventure. These hidden routes let you experience Vermont’s wilderness without the crowds and are often just minutes from your Stowe Mountain Rentals home.
Stay in Comfort and Style
After a day of exploring, unwind in your Stowe Mountain Rentals vacation home. With spacious living areas, cozy fireplaces, full kitchens, and scenic views, our rentals offer the ideal blend of comfort and convenience. Whether you’re visiting as a couple, a family, or a group of friends, you’ll have a private retreat to relax and recharge between adventures.
Make Stowe Your Next Hidden Gem with Stowe Mountain Rentals
What makes Stowe special isn’t just its scenery, it’s the balance between peace and discovery. Every trail, bridge, and café reveals another layer of its small-town charm. When you’re ready to explore it for yourself, book your Stowe vacation rental with Stowe Mountain Rentals and experience Stowe like a local. From mountain mornings to starlit nights, your Vermont escape starts the moment you arrive.