Think Stowe, Vermont only comes alive in winter? Think again! While the slopes may be quiet, summer explodes with vibrant life. Sure, you might trade your skis for hiking boots, but the epic mountain views and fresh country air are even more delightful in warm weather.
Wondering how to fill your summer days in Stowe? We’ve got you covered! This post dives into the best things to do in Stowe, VT in summer, keeping you entertained from mountain peaks to charming village strolls.
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15 Stowe, Vermont Summer Activities
Stowe Mountain Resort might be the main attraction in the winter months, but Stowe Village and its surrounding area has so much to offer in the warmer months.
Northern Vermont is full of scenic views and the Stowe area offers endless outdoor recreation opportunities. Staying for a long weekend? Here are our favorite things to do in Stowe, VT summer season.
1. Stowe Recreation Path
Ride, walk, run, or blade the Stowe Recreation Path. This 5.3 mile, paved trail, crisscrosses the West Branch of Little River between Stowe Village and Top Notch Resort.
The Stowe Recreation Path provides access to restaurants, lodging, and local businesses. Known for its breath-taking mountain views, this path is internationally recognized; it’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Intended for cycling, there are bike maintenance stations at Lintilhac Park and Chase Park. Bike maintenance stations include all the tools necessary to perform basic bike repairs and maintenance. Hang your bike from the hanger arm to change a flat or adjust your brakes or derailleur.
2. Stowe Mountain Resort Gondola SkyRide
Get to the top of mount Mansfield the easy way, on the Stowe Gondola SkyRide. Mt. Mansfield provides epic views from the top of Vermont;
Eat lunch on top of Vermont’s highest peak. Cliff House Restaurant is open from 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM for mountainside American cuisine. Reservations are recommended, but please know that gondola tickets are still required.
Purchase a gondola ticket online in advance or in person day of ride. The Gondola SkyRide runs every day from mid-June through late October.
3. Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center
Experience Austrian-inspired mountain luxury at the Trapp Family Lodge and outdoor center.
- Disc Golf Course
Play a different kind of 18 holes at the Trapp Family Lodge disc golf course. The course starts near the brewery and takes players through the forests and meadows on the grounds of beautiful Trapp Family Lodge. - Mountain Biking
The lodge property consists of 2,600 acres feature an extensive mountain bike trail network with two skills parks. Trapp Family Lodge offers high-quality bike rentals through Giant & Scott Bicycles, as well as a new fleet of lightweight properly proportioned Prevelo Kids Mountain bikes. - Rock Climbing Wall
The wellness center includes an indoor rock climbing wall. The 30-foot climbing wall is perfect for a rainy day! Trapp Family Lodge provides climbing shoes, harnesses, and belayers. - Horse Drawn Carriage
Horse drawn carriage rides share the mountaintop Trapp Lodge’s beauty in style. Rides are offered on Saturday and Wednesdays by reservation only. - Hiking
Hike over 35 miles of meadows and country roads at Trapp Family Lodge. Choose from the popular short, steep, but sweet Chapel Hike, the more strenuous six-mile hike to Slayton Pasture Cabin, or many other hikes on the property.
4. Stowe Area Hiking Trails
Hiking is one of the best things to do in Stowe, VT in summer. Hiking is popular in the summer months in the Stowe area. With access to a variety of trails for hikers or all ages and abilities.
- Moss Glen Falls
5.2 Miles & 951 Feet
Moss Glen Falls requires some light hiking (.25 miles) to get to a beautiful falls overlook. The trail past the falls is closed, but the cascading waterfall is worth the quick hike. - Bingham Falls
1.3 Miles & 154 Feet
One of the most popular waterfalls in Stowe, Bingham Falls via Mill Trail can be accessed in less than one mile. The water has carved unique shapes into the series of cascading falls through the gorge. - Mt. Mansfield
.5 Miles & 32 Feet
Check out the Mount Mansfield Loop Trail out of Underhill State Park to access Vermont’s highest mountain. It’s recommended to go up the Maple Ridge and down Sunset Ridge trail, however, there are a variety of different trails that lead to and from the ridge. - Spruce Peak
3.9 Miles & 1,519 Feet
A dirt road trail leads to the summit of Spruce Peak. This hike brings you to the highest point of Stowe Mountain Lodge, east of route 108. - Elephant’s Head
4.2 Miles & 577 Feet
This is a low key, easier hike through the forest. Elephant’s Head trails leads to beautiful views from a unique rock formation.
5. Mountain Biking with Pedal Access
If you’re looking to pedal your mountain bike, there are a few places you can expect incredible trails. The best part about these trail systems is that there’s something for all skill levels and miles of trails to choose from.
- Cady Hill Forest
Stowe’s flagship trail network provides trails for riders of all abilities and easy access from town. Access the trail system from the popular, Ranch Camp Bike Shop and be sure to ride the incredibly flowy Lower Florence Trail before making your way to the Green Chair Overlook! - Sterling Forest
Sterling Forest features both beautiful hiking trails mostly and fun intermediate/advanced mountain bike loops. This historic locations offers over 8 miles of multi-use trails suitable for mountain biking. - The Driving Range
A bit south of Stowe, off of Theodore Roosevelt Highway, The Driving Range offers 14 Adaptive Mountain Bike Trails. The trails include progressive features for both aMTBs and traditional bikes, including gap jumps, ladder bridges, drops, and rollers.
6. Take a Scenic Drive
When you’ve exhausted your ability to enjoy outdoor activities, opt for a scenic drive. Driving the mountain road is one of the most popular things to do in Stowe, VT in summer and fall.
- Auto Toll Road
Switchback your way up the Stowe Auto Toll Road to the summit ridge of Mt. Mansfield. From the parking area, you can take a short hike to the true summit and enjoy stunning views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains from Vermont’s tallest mountain. - Smuggler’s Notch
Take a drive down Vermont’s most dramatic road, Smuggler’s Notch. It passes through picturesque forests and bold rock outcroppings over a shoulder of Mount Mansfield, its highest mountain. This winding pass is only accessible by single vehicles greater than 40′ in length, or vehicles with trailers that are greater than 45′ in length. - The Green Mountain Byway
Explore the scenery, recreation, history and culture of Vermont’s Northern Green Mountains. This central Vermont scenic route feature Mount Mansfield, the Smugglers’ Notch mountain pass, and a variety of iconic Vermont towns and villages. Enjoy a scenic drive through Vermont’s northern Green Mountains.
7. Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream
Take a factory tour of Ben & Jerry’s very first factory. Take a sneak peak at Ben & Jerry’s humble beginnings as the 1985 factory manufactures about 350,000 pints per day!
Open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM every day, you won’t regret your decision to visit the only Ben & Jerry’s factory that’s open to the public.
Learn about how the ice cream is made and end your tour with scenic views while sampling a new addition to the menu or savoring your favorite flavor.
8. Craft Beer Tasting and Distilleries
If you love craft beer, one of the best things to do in Stowe, VT in summer is visit the local breweries.
- The Alchemist
The Alchemist is one of the most popular craft brewing companies of all time. With their humble beginnings set in Waterbury, VT this husband and wife duo was made famous by their Heady Topper, an American double IPA. Visit for an incredible tasting room and beer garden (open Thursday-Sunday) for live music, yard games, and an all around great time. - Idletyme Brewing Company
Idletyme is a smaller, artisanal brewer with a three-vessel brewery. Idletyme’s charming wood-paneled pub and restaurant on Mountain Road is the best place to taste its beers. - Von Trapp Brewing
With an international reputation (thank you Sound of Music), the mountains are alive with taste of craft beer! An Austrian-style Bierhall, the brewery has stayed true to its Austrian heritage; beers on tap might include award-winning brews such a Kolsch ales, Vienna-style lagers, golden Helles and Bavarian pilsners. - Smugglers Notch Distillery Tasting Room
Vermont’s Mountain Spirits made from the finest ingredients and pristine Vermont spring water, these award winning spirits are made one small batch at a time. Unique single-barrel tasting experiences are available throughout Vermont, but there is a tasting room in both Stowe and Waterbury! - Stowe Cider
Located right on Mountain Road, Stowe Cider uses local ingredients to offer several unique varieties on tap. A local favorite and gaining popularity among visitors, Stowe Cider is a great new additions to the local craft scene.
9. Downtown Stowe Activities
Downtown Stowe is a the perfect place to spend summer vacation. It’s a beautiful town filled with a variety of local businesses that allow you to grab a meal or do some shopping with an incredible view.
Hang out on Main Street and frequent some of the incredible businesses Stowe has to offer. There is 3-hour free public parking areas and paid parking lots available. Make your first stop in town Stowe Mercantile; this great country store in the heart of historic Stowe Village sells Vermont maple syrup and food items, handmade fudge, and boutique souvenirs.
We recommend grabbing breakfast at the Skinny Pancake at least one of the days you’re in town! They offer delicious, unique menu items that the entire family will love. If you’re looking for a quintessential café on Main Street, pop into Café on Main for coffee and breakfast classics.
10. ArborTrek Canopy Adventures
Soar on zip lines, cross sky bridges, & rappel from the trees on the Zip Line Canopy Tour at ArborTrek Canopy Adventures. USA Today has listed ArborTrek as one of the top 10 zipline courses in the country so you know you’re missing out if you don’t go!
ArborTrek Smugglers’ Notch offers year-round, zip-line eco-adventures for those seeking a thrill and even those looking for more peace and quiet. The fully-guided Zip Line Canopy Tour combines the thrill of high-speed ziplines with stunning views of the region. IT includes commentary on the local ecology, natural history, and lore of the area.
The Treetop Obstacle Course and Climbing Adventure provide more than 90 elements that allow you to slide, balance, jump, crawl, climb, dash, and swing through the trees at your own pace. In short, there’s something for everyone at ArborTrek!
11. Stowe Country Club
Located in the heart of the village, Stowe Country Club occupies what was once a turn-of-the-century dairy farm. It has since evolved into a course showcasing beautiful fairways and manicured greens in the fresh mountain air.
The front 9 is being renovated for the 2024 season, however, the back 9 are still playable. In the 2025 season, this situation will be reversed.
If Stowe is a place you plan to frequent, look into becoming a member at Stowe Country Club. If you’re just visiting the Stowe area and looking to golf, non-members may request Tee Times using an online request form.
12. Waterbury Reservoir
Waterbury Center State Park is home to Waterbury Reservoir, the ninth largest body of water in the state of Vermont. Created in the 1930’s to act as flood control for the surrounding towns and villages, the Reservoir is maintained to a surface area of 850 acres and has a maximum depth of 100 feet in the summer and fall months.
Visiting Waterbury Reservoir is one of the best things to do in Stowe, VT in summer when the weather is oppressively hot. There’s a swimming beach, nature trail, fishing areas, and boat ramp with rentals available.
If you love to camp and paddle, Waterbury Center State Park is also home to 27 remote paddle-to campsites. These sites are available on a first come first serve basis.
13. Horseback Riding
There are a two incredible places where you can schedule a half or full day ride in the Stowe area.
Topnotch Equestrian Center provides guided trail rides that let you experience the great Vermont outdoors on one of the many local trails around Stowe. Horseback riding lessons are also available for those interesting in learning more about the sport. If you’re exploring with littles, they’ll love the corralled pony rides Topnotch has to offer.
Vermont Icelandic Horse Farm is located just outside the Stowe area near the Mad River Valley in the historic village of Waitsfield. This expansive horse farm offers half-day and full-day trail rides on some of the oldest and most beautiful horse breeds in the country. Your ride will be guided by a seasoned veteran across the Mad River Valley and through the meadows and woods of the Green Mountains.
14. Stowe Miniature Golf Course
Fun things to do in Stowe, VT in summer for the whole family will always include Mini Golf! Stowe Golf Park is located on the Mountain Road at Sun and Ski Inn.
Open April through October, this is a great daytime or late night activity for the family as it opens at 8AM with it’s last T time being 9:30 PM. You can purchase tickets online or at the kiosk upon arrival.
This Stowe Miniature Golf Course is an 18-hole putting course. It’s heavily landscaped and contoured in a garden environment and is meant to mimic a real golf environment and experience.
15. Cold Hollow Cider Mill
Cold Hollow Cider Mill is a Stowe, Vermont MUST DO. It may give off perfect autumn vibes, but the apple cider is always flowing and it’s a great spot to experience all the perfect Vermont sights and smells.
Founded in 1974, Cold Hollow has been serving up refreshing glasses of cider and delectable cider donuts since their opening. Situated between Waterbury and Stowe, it’s a great place to stop on your way in or out of town.
Add one of the most-visited attractions in Vermont to your “Stowe To Do List”. It offers a glimpse into the fascinating world of traditional cider making, utilizing century-old, rack-and-cloth press, while providing incredible treats that taste like the Green Mountain State.
10 FAQs: Summer Fun in Stowe
1. Besides skiing, is there anything to do in Stowe in the summer
Absolutely! Stowe transforms into a mountain playground come summertime. Think sunshine, stunning scenery, and activities that don’t involve dodging downhill daredevils or the sweaty efforts of cross-country skiing (although this is the best way to experience Stowe in the winter months!)
2. I’m an outdoor enthusiast. What are some fun things to do in Stowe, VT in Summer?
Strap on your hiking boots or rent a mountain bike – Stowe boasts miles of trails for every level. Hike to a cascading waterfall, conquer a mountain peak, or cruise through verdant forests. The outdoor enthusiast in us all loves a good weekend in Stowe!
3. Hiking is great, but I need a cool-down.
Take a dip in a refreshing swimming hole, like the pools at Jeff Falls and Bingham Falls. Looking for a more official cool off? Rent a canoe or kayak and soak in the scenery from a different perspective. Just don’t forget the sunscreen – Vermont sun can be a sneaky peak performer!
There are also accommodations in the Stowe area that include a swimming pool. The Trapp Family Lodge and the spa a Spruce Peak, for example, has an outdoor pool. Topnotch resort includes a large, family-friendly indoor pool for all to enjoy! Take you pick at a variety of cool-down options.
4. What if I’m More of a “relax and recharge” kind of traveler?
No problem! Stowe offers scenic gondola rides with breathtaking views, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Pack a picnic and enjoy the mountaintop serenity.
Book a few relaxing spa services, do some leisurely shopping downtown, or enjoy the scenery from your vehicle on a scenic drive.
5. Any cultural experiences to be had in Stowe, VT?
Absolutely! Explore the charming town of Stowe with its quaint shops and art galleries. Don’t miss the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum – a fascinating peek into the history of winter sports.
6. Speaking of history, are there any historic sites?
Stowe is sprinkled with charming covered bridges – architectural gems from a bygone era. Take a scenic drive and snap some postcard-perfect pictures. Be sure to add Gold Brook Covered Bridge to your must-photograph places.
Nebraska Knoll Sugar Farm, Little River Historic Area, and Sterling Forest Historic Area are some of the more adventurous historic sites in Stowe. Check out Go Stowe’s self-guided walking tour or 11 incredible historic sites in the Stowe area for more option.
7. Is Stowe, Vermont busy in the Summer Months?
Believe it or not, this is not peak season for Stowe. There are so many incredible things to do in Stowe, VT in Summer and yet winter and fall tend to be the most popular times to visit. Take advantage of this opportunity by planning an epic summer season trip!
8. Any live music or festivals to catch?
Stowe comes alive in the summer with events like the Vermont Renaissance Faire and Fourth of July celebrations complete with fireworks.
Home Grown in Vermont Music Festival, The B3 Fest (bikes, brews, & beats) and a variety of other live music opportunities are available throughout the summer as well.
9. We’re traveling with kids. Will they be bored?
Not a chance! Stowe offers mini-golf, scenic gondola rides, and even a Vermont Icelandic Horse Farm – perfect for meeting these unique, friendly equines.
Take this opportunity to help your kiddos appreciate the beauty of Northern Vermont and get them excited about the variety of outdoor activities this area has to offer.
10. Sounds like there’s a lot to do! How do I plan my Stowe adventure?
With the list I’ve provided above and a calendar, you can plan an epic summer vacation with home base in the Stowe village. As always, feel free to reach out to me if you’re looking for additional tips or recommendations!
If there’s something I’ve missed, the friendly folks at the Stowe Area Association [gostowe.com] have all the information you need to craft your perfect summer escape!
Conclusion
Stowe, Vermont is the perfect home base for mountain bikers who love to pedal, hikers seeking the state high point, and anyone who loves the great outdoors. Whether you’re confident enough to hit the trails and experience some of the best places Vermont has to offer on your own, or you’re looking for a guided tour, there are endless things to do in Killington, VT in summer.
The state of Vermont is home to a variety of incredible areas, including Killington, Burlington, Woodstock, and Manchester. Vermont’s green mountains can be enjoyed from so many different areas throughout the state, but Stowe, Vermont is one of my favorite towns in the Northeast!