Sunshine and blue skies all weekend! Taken from the Octagon Lodge looking at the summit of Mt. Mansfield, VT’s highest peak.
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Stowe Mountain Resort

4.2
·927 reviews·Stowe, United States

Vermont's premier ski resort offering challenging slopes, stunning fall foliage, and a charming mountain town experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall mornings (early Oct)

Catch peak foliage, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
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Sunshine and blue skies all weekend! Taken from the Octagon Lodge looking at the summit of Mt. Mansfield, VT’s highest peak.

Stowe Mountain Resort

Best Time

Fall mornings (early Oct)

Catch peak foliage, fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Vermont's premier ski resort offering challenging slopes, stunning fall foliage, and a charming mountain town experience.

4.2
(927 reviews)

"Stowe offers a quintessential New England experience with breathtaking fall colors and world-class skiing."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Stowe gets busy, especially on weekends during fall. Get there before 9 AM for easier parking .

🎟️ Book Lift Tickets Ahead

Window ticket prices are high. Consider an Epic Pass for savings if you plan multiple ski days .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stowe Gondola SkyRide

Stowe Gondola SkyRide

Stowe Mountain Resort

Soar to the summit of Mount Mansfield for breathtaking panoramic views of Vermont's highest peak and surrounding fall foliage.

Von Trapp Family Lodge

Von Trapp Family Lodge

Stowe, VT

Experience the legacy of the von Trapp family from 'The Sound of Music' and meet their charming Highland cows.

Downtown Stowe

Downtown Stowe

Stowe, VT

Wander through charming streets, explore unique shops, and enjoy cozy cafes in this picturesque New England town.

Smugglers' Notch Scenic Drive

Smugglers' Notch Scenic Drive

Route 108

A stunning drive through a mountain pass, especially beautiful during the fall foliage season.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Fall Foliage

Peak fall foliage in Stowe, Vermont, typically occurs in early to mid-October. To avoid the biggest crowds and secure better parking, aim for weekdays and arrive early in the morning. Social media creators often highlight the beauty of the fall colors, but also warn about weekend congestion.TikTok

Ski Season & Pass Options

Stowe Mountain Resort is a premier ski destination. If you plan to ski or snowboard, consider purchasing an Epic Pass in advance for potential savings, as window ticket prices can be quite high.Reddit Vail Resorts operates Stowe, so check their pass options for the best value.TikTok

Best Times

When
Fall mornings (early Oct)
Why
Catch peak foliage, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday ski season
Why
Best snow, fewer lift lines
Crowd
Low
When
Summer
Why
Pleasant weather, hiking
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

FALL IN VERMONT ITINERARY 🍁👇 ⛪️ Downtown Stowe @gostowe Enjoy the architectural beauty, history, quaint shops, and cozy cafes of this iconic Northeastern mountain town. 🚠 Stowe Gondola SkyRide @stowemt Soar to the top of Vermont’s highest peak- Mount Mansfield 🐂 von Trapp Family Lodge Highland Cow Tour @trappfamilylodge Join farmers on a hike to meet their adorable herd of Scottish Highlander c...
@georgeandcris
167.4K likes • 1.7M views

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Stowe gets busy, especially on weekends during fall. Get there before 9 AM for easier parking.InstagramReddit

🎟️ Book Lift Tickets Ahead

Window ticket prices are high. Consider an Epic Pass for savings if you plan multiple ski days.Reddit

Calling all you Ski The East-ers⁠🎿🏔️⛷️ ⁠ 📍Spruce Peak Lodge⁠ ⁠ 📸 @dirtandglass @tracypagu @eatvermont on IG #sprucepeak #stowevt #skitheeast #eastcoast #vermont #wintertravel #skiinskiout #skiingtiktok
@safaratravels
78.4K likes • 1.8M views
Mike Giorgio, General Manager at Stowe Mountain Resort, is here to give us a Fall Mountain Update. As the seasons change, the foliage at Stowe is beginning to turn and now is the perfect time to consult your Fall Foliage Tracker to catch the vibrant red ridgelines before the season ends. Mark your calendar for October 18th, when we wrap up fall operations with our first-ever Harvest Festival, r...
stowemt
701 likes • 25.3K views

🧥 Dress in Layers

Vermont weather can change quickly. Layers are key for comfort, whether hiking or skiing.Reddit

🐄 Meet the Highland Cows

A highlight for many visitors at the Von Trapp Family Lodge! TikTokInstagram

follow @georgeandcris for travel inspo 😍 FALL IN VERMONT ITINERARY 🍁👇 ⛪️ Downtown Stowe @gostowe Enjoy the architectural beauty, history, quaint shops, and cozy cafes of this iconic Northeastern mountain town. 🚠 Stowe Gondola SkyRide @stowemt Soar to the top of Vermont’s highest peak- Mount Mansfield 🐂 von Trapp Family Lodge Highland Cow Tour @trappfamilylodge Join farmers on a hike to meet...
georgeandcris
115.4K likes • 2.1M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Early for Parking

Stowe gets busy, especially on weekends during fall. Get there before 9 AM for easier parking.InstagramReddit

🎟️ Book Lift Tickets Ahead

Window ticket prices are high. Consider an Epic Pass for savings if you plan multiple ski days.Reddit

🧥 Dress in Layers

Vermont weather can change quickly. Layers are key for comfort, whether hiking or skiing.Reddit

🐄 Meet the Highland Cows

A highlight for many visitors at the Von Trapp Family Lodge! TikTokInstagram

📱 Use the Epic Pass App

Get real-time updates on operations and conditions during ski season.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(927 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Stowe Mountain Resort is highly praised for its stunning mountain scenery, excellent skiing conditions, and the breathtaking beauty of its fall foliage. Visitors love the variety of trails, the charming town, and unique attractions like the Von Trapp Family Lodge. However, the high cost of lift tickets and potential weekend crowds are noted drawbacks.

"First, you should know that The Sound of Music is my all-time favorite movie. I cry every time. The Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, VT was our very last stop on our 2-week long roadtrip through the northeast. I had no idea it existed until I started researching places for us to stay in Stowe and just happened to stumble upon it. I started crying and sent it to my husband and told him we were going! LOL! This mountaintop is where the von Trapp family finally settled after fleeing from Austria. We participated in a history tour and learned even more about the von Trapp family and we also got to meet their Scottish Highlander cows. I fell even more in love with their story. It's definitely more than what we would normally spend on a hotel per night, but it was worth every penny. The resort was soooo very nice! We went the first few days of November and it was a little tooooo cold for us, so we would want to go either during the fall or springtime! It has just snowed right before we got there. I don't do the cold! LOL! We ate at their restaurant TWICE because it was soooo tasty. YUM! My mouth is watering just thinking about it. We got to see Maria's gravesite and that was emotional, too. I would recommend watching the movie first if you're not familiar with this story because you will have an even greater appreciate for it whenever you get there! You should do the history tour, too! I bought two different books and read one of them on the way home. Gosh, it was just the best and my heart was very full."

Kristin Koonce Burroughs

"I've been skiing at Stowe since the late 90s and I just love this mountain. There is plenty to ski for every level. Stunning views. Like every mountain, conditions are weather dependent, so you either plan ahead or roll the dice. I rolled the dice and got lucky. The previous week saw about a foot of fresh snow, there was not a cloud in the sky and it was cold enough to keep the crowds away the whole morning. The grooming team did a great job of refreshing the mountain. There were plenty of powder stashes in the woods and the sides of trails. My husband no longer skis, so he set himself up in The Den at the Mansfield Lodge and said that the staff kept coming over to make sure he was comfortable or if he needed anything. The food prices are high, but with the epic pass discount, comparable to most resorts.
I really dislike how expensive the window prices of lift tickets have become. It's shameful. Skiing should be more inclusive. I bought a 4-pack epic pass the previous year, which came in a the top-end of what I'm willing to spend for a day of skiing and offers a good variety of destinations. If it weren't for that, Stowe would be off my list of places to ski."

Timothy Forry

"Very good hotel with plenty of amenities Came in summer but I’m sure it’s great in every season specially winter to ski. Very convenient. It has a gondola on site."

Yuli O.

What People Like

Spectacular fall foliage
Excellent ski terrain
Charming town atmosphere

What People Dislike

Expensive lift tickets
Weekend crowds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Stowe Mountain Resort is accessible by car. From Burlington International Airport (BTV), it's about a 40-mile drive.Instagram Major routes like I-89 and VT-100 lead to Stowe. Parking can be challenging, especially during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended.InstagramReddit

While direct public transport to the resort itself is limited, local bus services may connect to the town of Stowe. For most visitors, driving or using ride-sharing services from nearby airports or towns is the most common method.

Having a car is beneficial for exploring the wider Stowe area. Within the resort, a gondola connects the Mansfield and Spruce Peak sides.Reddit During ski season, resort shuttles may be available.

Stowe is approximately 3-4 hours from Boston, MA, and about 5-6 hours from New York City, NY, making it a popular weekend getaway destination for many on the East Coast.

There is no airport directly in Stowe. The closest major airport is Burlington International Airport (BTV), which is about an hour's drive away.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Window lift ticket prices at Stowe can be very expensive. Purchasing an Epic Pass in advance is highly recommended for significant savings if you plan to ski or snowboard multiple days.Reddit Check the Vail Resorts website for current pricing.

Yes, the Epic Pass offers various tiers and discounts. Look for multi-day passes or season passes if you plan to visit frequently. Some local lodging may also offer package deals.

Operating hours vary by season. During the ski season, lifts typically run from early morning to mid-afternoon. The Gondola SkyRide has specific operating dates, usually running through mid-October for fall foliage.Instagram

While not always mandatory, it's advisable to check the Stowe Mountain Resort website for any reservation requirements, especially during peak fall foliage season. Purchasing tickets in advance can save time.

Parking at Stowe Mountain Resort is generally free on weekdays. On weekends and during peak times, parking can fill up quickly, and some areas might have fees or require shuttle use. Arriving early is key.Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Stowe offers a variety of trails for all levels. The Mansfield side is known for its challenging terrain and steeps like 'The Front Four,' while Spruce Peak is better suited for beginners and intermediates.Reddit Exploring different areas is recommended for a full experience.Reddit

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, you can enjoy the Gondola SkyRide for scenic views, explore the shops and dining at Spruce Peak, go snowshoeing, or enjoy après-ski activities. In the summer and fall, hiking and scenic drives are popular.

Yes, Spruce Peak at Stowe Mountain Resort is specifically designed for beginners with dedicated learning areas and gentler slopes. Ski schools are also available for lessons.Reddit

The views from Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak, are spectacular. You'll see panoramic vistas of the surrounding Green Mountains, forests, and valleys, especially stunning during the fall foliage season.Instagram+1

Yes, there are numerous hiking trails around Stowe Mountain Resort and on Mount Mansfield, offering beautiful scenery throughout the year. During the fall, these trails are excellent for leaf-peeping.TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Stowe offers a range of dining, from casual cafes and pubs to upscale restaurants. Spruce Peak has many options, including coffee shops and fine dining. The Cliff House Restaurant at the summit of Mansfield requires reservations.Reddit The Von Trapp Family Lodge also has a highly-rated restaurant.Reddit

Absolutely! Downtown Stowe is filled with charming eateries, from cozy cafes to gastropubs and fine dining establishments. Many offer farm-to-table experiences showcasing local Vermont ingredients.

The Lodge at Spruce Peak offers several dining venues, often featuring contemporary American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients. Expect quality dining experiences suitable for resort guests.

Many visitors enjoy the local cafes in downtown Stowe for breakfast. Look for places that offer Vermont specialties like maple syrup pancakes or local baked goods.

Food prices at resort-level establishments can be high, but discounts may be available with passes like the Epic Pass.Reddit Exploring dining options in the town of Stowe might offer more budget-friendly choices.

📸 📸 Photography

Iconic photo spots include the view from the Gondola SkyRide,Instagram the charming streets of downtown Stowe,TikTok the Von Trapp Family Lodge with its Highland cows,TikTok and scenic overlooks along Smugglers' Notch.TikTok Fall foliage provides a stunning backdrop everywhere.

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography, especially for capturing the fall foliage. Mid-day can be harsh, but the views from the gondola are impressive anytime.

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for landscapes and general shots. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive mountain views. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions or long exposures, and a polarizing filter for vibrant foliage shots.

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always be respectful of other visitors and private property.

Peak foliage typically occurs in early to mid-October. For the best colors, aim for sunny days with clear skies. The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows are most striking during this period.Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Stowe is a fantastic family destination. For skiing, Spruce Peak is ideal for beginners and children, with dedicated learning areas and ski schools.Reddit Off the slopes, the Von Trapp Family Lodge offers a unique experience with its history and adorable Highland cows, which kids often adore.TikTokInstagram Downtown Stowe provides a pleasant stroll with shops and cafes that can entertain younger visitors. Consider visiting during the fall for the colorful foliage and activities like visiting cider mills.TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

While Stowe can be pricey, budget-conscious travelers can find ways to enjoy it. Purchasing an Epic Pass in advance for skiing is crucial for cost savings.Reddit Look for weekday visits to avoid peak crowds and potentially higher prices for lodging and parking.Instagram Exploring the downtown area and enjoying scenic drives like Smugglers' Notch are free activities. Consider packing your own snacks and drinks to save on resort food costs.

💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways

Stowe offers a romantic New England escape. During fall, the Gondola SkyRide provides breathtaking views perfect for a shared experience.Instagram Cozying up in charming boutique hotels like AWOL Stowe or The Lodge at Spruce Peak adds to the romantic ambiance.TikTok+1 Enjoying a fine dining experience in downtown Stowe or a quiet evening at the Von Trapp Family Lodge's restaurant can create lasting memories.

🍂 Fall Foliage Enthusiasts

Stowe is a prime destination for leaf-peeping. The Gondola SkyRide offers unparalleled aerial views of the vibrant foliage.Instagram+1 Driving Smugglers' Notch is another must-do for stunning roadside scenery.TikTok To truly appreciate the colors without the crowds, aim for weekday visits and early mornings.Instagram While peak foliage is typically early to mid-October, check local foliage reports for the best timing.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Experiencing Fall Foliage in Stowe

Stowe, Vermont, is renowned for its spectacular fall foliage, drawing visitors from all over. The peak season usually hits in early to mid-October, transforming the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows.TikTokInstagram A must-do activity is the Stowe Gondola SkyRide, which ascends Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the colorful mountainsides.Instagram+1 Many visitors also enjoy driving along Smugglers' Notch (Route 108), a scenic byway that winds through a dramatic mountain pass, providing stunning vistas at every turn.TikTok+1

To make the most of your fall foliage trip, timing and planning are crucial. Weekends can become extremely crowded, with parking being a significant challenge in the popular one-road town.Instagram+1 To avoid the throngs, consider visiting on a weekday and arriving early in the morning, ideally before 9 AM.Instagram While the foliage is breathtaking, some years may see less vibrant colors due to dry conditions.Instagram Always check local foliage trackers for the most up-to-date information on peak viewing times.Instagram

Skiing and Snowboarding at Stowe Mountain Resort

Stowe Mountain Resort is a premier East Coast ski destination, boasting two distinct mountains: Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak. Mount Mansfield offers challenging terrain, including steep runs and glades, making it a favorite for advanced skiers and snowboarders.Reddit+1 Spruce Peak is more beginner-friendly, with dedicated learning areas and gentler slopes, making it ideal for families and those new to the sport.Reddit The resort features over 100 trails, ensuring a diverse experience for all skill levels.Reddit

Lift tickets can be quite expensive when purchased at the window. For those planning multiple ski days, investing in an Epic Pass is highly recommended, as it can offer significant cost savings and access to other Vail Resorts properties.TikTokReddit It's advisable to purchase passes in advance. During the ski season, parking is generally free on weekdays, but can fill up quickly on weekends. Utilizing the resort's app can provide real-time updates on lift status and conditions.Reddit The resort is known for its stunning mountain scenery, which adds to the overall skiing experience.Reddit

Beyond the Slopes: Stowe's Charm and Attractions

Stowe's appeal extends far beyond its ski slopes. The charming downtown area is a delight to explore, with its picturesque architecture, boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes.TikTokInstagram It's a perfect spot to wander, grab a coffee, or find unique souvenirs. For a dose of history and a touch of musical fame, a visit to the Von Trapp Family Lodge is a must. Here, you can learn about the family's inspiring story, enjoy the beautiful mountain setting, and even meet their famous Highland cows.TikTokInstagram

For those seeking relaxation, resorts like Top Notch offer spa services, providing a perfect way to unwind after a day of outdoor activities.TikTok The Lodge at Spruce Peak is another highly-rated hotel known for its amenities and convenient location.TikTok+1 Whether you're visiting in the vibrant fall, the snowy winter, or the green summer, Stowe offers a quintessential New England experience with a blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm.

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