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.