Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road
Drive or hike to Vermont's highest peak for unparalleled Green Mountain vistas and a unique alpine experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy peace
Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Drive or hike to Vermont's highest peak for unparalleled Green Mountain vistas and a unique alpine experience.
"Spectacular views all around, worth the drive and the hike!"
🚗 AWD/4x4 Recommended
Gravel road can be rough. AWD or 4x4 is best for a smoother ride and less stress on your vehicle.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Don't hike in sandals! Trail runners or hiking boots are a must for the rocky, uneven summit trails.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mount Mansfield Summit Hike
From the Visitor's Center at the top of the Toll Road
Conquer Vermont's highest peak! A challenging but rewarding hike over rocks with stunning panoramic views.
Scenic Auto Toll Road Drive
Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road
Ascend to the heavens on this gravel road, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Green Mountains.
Visitor's Center at the Nose
Top of the Toll Road
Get insights from knowledgeable staff and access the Long Trail for further exploration of the alpine environment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Vehicle & Road Conditions
Summit Hike Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
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🚗 AWD/4x4 Recommended
Gravel road can be rough. AWD or 4x4 is best for a smoother ride and less stress on your vehicle.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Don't hike in sandals! Trail runners or hiking boots are a must for the rocky, uneven summit trails.
🧥 Pack a Warm Layer
Weather at the summit is unpredictable. Bring a jacket, even on a warm day, as it can get chilly.
⏰ Go Early to Avoid Lines
Parking can be limited. Arriving early, especially on weekends, means less waiting time for the toll road.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 AWD/4x4 Recommended
Gravel road can be rough. AWD or 4x4 is best for a smoother ride and less stress on your vehicle.
👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential
Don't hike in sandals! Trail runners or hiking boots are a must for the rocky, uneven summit trails.
🧥 Pack a Warm Layer
Weather at the summit is unpredictable. Bring a jacket, even on a warm day, as it can get chilly.
⏰ Go Early to Avoid Lines
Parking can be limited. Arriving early, especially on weekends, means less waiting time for the toll road.
🌿 Stay on Marked Trails
Protect the fragile alpine environment. Stick to designated paths to preserve the rare flora.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the spectacular views from Mount Mansfield, calling the summit hike rewarding despite its challenging, rocky terrain. The scenic drive up the Auto Toll Road is a major draw, though some find the road rough and the toll price a bit high. Proper footwear and preparedness for changing weather are consistently recommended.
"We loved the Stowe auto road to the visitor center. We did the road in a stock jeep wrangler. You could do it in an all wheel drive vehicle as well. Most 2 wheel vehicles could do it but it's definitely going to put some stress on the transmission and I would only do it if the road was dry. So best for 4x4 or all wheel drive. Once at the top the staff met us outside and gave us an introduction to the area and the center. We decided to hike to the sumit of mt Mansfield. Great hike. About 1000ft elevation change and not that difficult. Took us about 40 min to reach the top. However, have good hiking shoes or trail runners. Don't attempt in slides or sandles. Views all around were very impressive. Sumit is around 5600ft."
Rob James
"Visitor's center at the south end of Mt. Mansfield ("the nose"), which is at the top of the Toll Road, has parking lot A, and often features a helpful guide to answer questions. From here you can hike along part of the Long Trail and visit "the chin" by walking along the ridge to the peak of the mountain. Beautiful location with alpine flora."
Ed Holden
"Toll road a little pricey and the drive is fairly rough up. Road is gravel. The woman at the top was very knowledgeable and friendly to help make you aware of the hike and environment.
The hike is difficult but very rewarding. Took us about 2 1/2 hrs (+/-2.4miles) round trip with snack break at the peak and with two dogs as well.
Be aware that this hike does require climbing over rocks and very uneven surfaces the entire time. If you aren't in decent shape I wouldn't recommend trying.
Also make sure to wear at least tennis shoes, no sandals etc. Hike poles will make the journey easier and safer.
The weather can be quite different at the top, make sure to bring a jacket and PLEASE stay on the path as this is a rare and fragile environment.
Not a ton of parking so I recommend going during the week as this will determine hike length. Our hike time was from the top parking lot."
Anna S
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road is located near Stowe, Vermont. You can access it via Route 108. It's a scenic drive, but be prepared for a gravel road once you enter the toll section.
While some 2WD vehicles can manage, an all-wheel-drive (AWD) or 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended due to the gravel and potentially rough terrain.
The Auto Toll Road typically opens in late May or early June and closes in mid-October, depending on weather conditions. It's best to check the official website for current operating dates.
Public transportation options directly to the Auto Toll Road are limited. Most visitors drive their own vehicles or use ride-sharing services from nearby towns like Stowe.
The drive up the Auto Toll Road takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic and how often you stop to admire the views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The toll for the road is typically around $29 per car/driver, with an additional $11 per passenger. Prices can vary, so it's wise to confirm current rates.
Advance booking is generally not required for the Auto Toll Road itself, but arriving early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure parking.
Discounts are not commonly advertised for the Auto Toll Road. However, checking the official Vermont State Parks website or local tourism sites might reveal any seasonal offers.
The road is usually open from 10 AM to 4:30 PM, but hours can vary. It's essential to check the official operating schedule before your visit.
The primary fee is for driving the Auto Toll Road. Hiking from the summit parking lot to the peak is generally included with your toll payment.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike from the visitor center to the summit is about 2.4 miles round trip and involves significant elevation gain. It's rocky, steep, and requires good physical condition.
The hike to the summit can take around 2 to 2.5 hours round trip, including breaks. Some experienced hikers might complete it faster.
The views from the summit are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding Green Mountains and beyond. On clear days, you can see for miles.
Yes, there is a visitor's center at the top (known as 'the Nose') with parking and staff who can provide information about the area and hiking trails.
Dogs are generally allowed on the Auto Toll Road and on the hiking trails, provided they are kept on a leash. Be sure to clean up after your pet.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit itself offers incredible panoramic shots. The drive up the Auto Toll Road also provides numerous pull-offs with stunning scenic views, especially during fall foliage. +1
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly magical.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant details. Don't forget a sturdy tripod if you plan for low-light shots.
Generally, photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other visitors and respect any posted signage or guidelines.
Fall foliage season (late September to early October) is incredibly popular for photography due to the vibrant colors. Summer offers lush green landscapes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as amenities at the summit are limited. The gondola ride at nearby Stowe Mountain Resort is another excellent family-friendly option if the toll road drive isn't feasible or if you're looking for an alternative way to experience the mountain views.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, combining the scenic drive with the hike to the summit offers a dual experience. Remember that the road can be narrow and winding, so drive cautiously and be mindful of other vehicles and cyclists.
⛰️ Avid Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road Experience
As you ascend, you'll pass through different ecological zones, from dense forest to the more exposed alpine tundra near the summit. The drive itself is an experience, with numerous pull-offs providing opportunities to stop, stretch your legs, and soak in the scenery. The road leads to a parking area near 'the Nose,' which houses a visitor's center staffed by knowledgeable individuals ready to share insights about the mountain's natural history and hiking trails.
Timing is crucial for enjoying this drive. Visiting during peak fall foliage season (late September to early October) offers an unparalleled visual spectacle, with the mountainsides ablaze in vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows.
Summiting Mount Mansfield: A Hiker's Guide
Hikers are advised to wear sturdy hiking shoes or trail runners – leave the sandals at home! The path involves scrambling over rocks, and good ankle support is beneficial. Many visitors find that hiking poles can significantly aid stability and reduce strain on joints, making the journey safer and more comfortable.
Be prepared for changing weather conditions. The summit is exposed, and temperatures can be considerably cooler than at the base. Bringing a warm jacket or windbreaker is highly recommended, even on a sunny day.
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