Long before there were skis, people traveled across the snow-covered landscape using snowshoes. The earliest ones were believed to have been slabs of wood that were strapped to the feet to keep from sinking into the deep snow. In the 6,000 years or more since, snowshoes have evolved to be light, easy to use and highly effective ways to trek in the winter.
Today’s models range from recreational snowshoes from companies such as Tubbs or Atlas to those made for running or racing, such as those made by Vermont-based snowshoe company Dion. All feature a metal frame, leather or synthetic webbing and steel cleats that allow you to bite into the snow as you climb up steeper terrain.
In Stowe, you can rent snowshoes at most outdoor retailers, trailheads at the Stowe Cross Country Center or the Trapp Family Lodge, and at the Spa at Spruce Peak — where you can also join a guided tour. Umiak, the outdoor adventure company based on Route 100 in Stowe, also offers guided snowshoe hikes, including moonlight tours with hot mulled cider or fondue stops.
But for most snowshoe hikes in Stowe, you don’t need a guide — and most of these are free. Here are seven of the most beautiful places to snowshoe in Stowe.
Smugglers’ Notch
If you parked at Stowe Mountain Resort to ski, you won’t even need to move your car to enjoy this bucket-list snowshoe hike. In winter, Route 108 just past the resort closes to cars and becomes a snow-packed corridor for skiers, dog walkers, and snowshoers. Start from the Barnes Camp parking area and hike up the Notch Road. The full route is about 4 miles one-way to Smugglers’ Notch Resort, but you can turn back at any point. Along the way, you’ll pass towering ice falls and may spot ice climbers on the cliffs.
Spruce Peak
Another easy outing starts at Spruce Peak’s The Cottage and follows mapped routes across the golf course with big views of Mount Mansfield. The easiest loop is the half-mile Old Camp Ramble. The Three Bridge Run is shorter but includes some elevation, while the Mountain Course Loop adds distance and solitude. All offer open fields and scenic vistas.
Stowe Cross Country Center
For a serene snowshoe through the woods, visit the Stowe Cross Country Center. Though most of the trails are reserved for Nordic skiing, the center features 8 miles of designated snowshoe trails weaving between the groomed tracks. Trails are moderately difficult with rolling terrain and views of Ranch Brook. Rentals and maps are available at the yurt by the parking area.
Weissner Woods
Just off Edson Hill Road, Weissner Woods is a peaceful 79-acre forest conserved by Stowe Land Trust. A 2.8-mile loop passes through tall pines and offers a meadow overlook with views of Mount Mansfield. It’s quiet, scenic, and wonderful for winter wanderers.
Stowe Recreation Path
One of the easiest and prettiest routes for snowshoeing, the Stowe Recreation Path begins behind Stowe Community Church and follows the West Branch of the Little River over multiple wooden bridges. The 5.3-mile path parallels Route 108 and passes through open fields with stunning views of Stowe Mountain Resort. Numerous parking areas and the Green Mountain Transit bus line along the route make one-way trips easy.
Trapp Family Lodge
The Trapp Family Lodge sits on a 2,500-acre property with extensive snowshoeing and Nordic trails. Purchase a trail pass and explore routes ranging from gentle outings to the 3-mile uphill trek to the rustic Slayton Pasture Cabin, where a fire and hot soup await. For a shorter adventure, snowshoe to the Kaffeehouse or the Bierhall for a pastry, sandwich, or Austrian specialties. Snowshoe rentals are available at the Outdoor Center.
Pinnacle
The Pinnacle hike is challenging but rewarding. The 3.7-mile round-trip trail climbs steeply up 1,604 vertical feet. At the summit, you’re treated to sweeping views of Mount Mansfield, the Worcester Range, and the valley below. The trailhead is located on Upper Hollow Road just outside Stowe village, and the route is popular enough that you likely won’t need to break trail.
Produced in partnership with Vermont Ski + Ride Magazine.
