29 Best Things to Do in Stowe, Vermont in the Fall

Are you looking for the best things to do in Stowe, Vermont in the fall? You’re in the right place and I can’t wait to share them with you!

As a local from a neighboring town for the past 10 years, I have a special place in my heart for this picturesque New England destination. Fall is undoubtedly one of the best times of year to experience Stowe’s charm, with its vibrant foliage, crisp air, and cozy atmosphere.

In this blog post, I’ll share my top recommendations for visiting Stowe Vermont during the fall season. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure junkie, a foodie, or you are simply looking for a fall foliage getaway, you’ll find a wealth of activities that celebrate the beauty and spirit of autumn in Stowe.

So, grab your favorite scarf and a warm cup of cider, and I’ll dive into all the wonderful experiences waiting for you in this enchanting corner of Vermont.

Stowe Vermont in the Fall

Nestled in the heart of Vermont, Stowe is a haven for those seeking to immerse themselves in the quintessential New England experience. As autumn unfolds, the town transforms into a veritable canvas of breathtaking fall colors

I especially love fall in Vermont because the crisp air carries the scent of woodsmoke and fallen leaves, which just naturally invites people to slow down, cozy up, and revel in the magic of the season.

From scenic drives and leisurely hikes through the changing colors of fall foliage to indulging in the local harvest at farmers’ markets and orchards, there’s no shortage of ways to connect with nature and embrace the beauty of autumn.

Beyond the great outdoors, Stowe’s charming village center boasts an eclectic mix of shops, galleries, and eateries, providing the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or a warm cup of chai tea.

Things to Do in Stowe Vermont in the Fall

Whether you visit with family and friends, or travel solo, you are certain to find the perfect activity to enjoy during your time in Stowe. If the weather turns cold and rainy, you’ll find suggestions for some indoor activities too. Here are my top recommendations for things to do in Stowe, VT during the fall season.

1. Stowe Foliage Arts Festival

Celebrate the season at this annual 3-day event taking place in early October featuring local art, live music, and delicious food. Enjoy a day full of fun activities for all ages.

The main part of this festival is going to see the over 150 artisans and makers that display their work. There are also craft demonstrations in glass, painting, clay, and woodworking.

There’s live music, specialty food items for gifting, and festive adult beverages as well.

3. Drive the Auto Road

You can certainly take a leisurely scenic drive along Route 100 or Smugglers Notch Road to admire the stunning fall foliage, however, for a bucket list item take the Auto Road!

The Auto Toll Road takes you up to the summit of Mt. Mansfield. As the highest point in Vermont, the peak offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, adorned with vibrant autumn foliage.

The journey on the Toll Road itself is a memorable experience, providing views of foliage along the way. However, it’s essential to exercise caution while driving, as the road can be narrow and winding at times.

In my experience, the zig-zagging gravel road can be tricky in spots but just drive slow and leave room for oncoming cars! Once you’re almost at the top you can park at the visitors center and make a short walk to the summit. 

4. Hiking

Vermont is a great destination for those looking to get out and explore nature. Explore the beautiful trails on Mount Mansfield, Smuggler’s Notch State Park, or Wiessner Woods.

My personal favorite hike in the area is Sterling Pond. The pond itself is quite beautiful and provides a perfect spot to relax and take in the scenery. I highly recommend it but keep in mind it is steep and rocky in areas despite being labeled as an “easy” hike in guide books.

If you’re looking for the most technical and challenging hike, try Hell Brooke Trail. It’s a literal straight 1.5 mile hike up to Mt. Mansfield requiring stamina and strength to get through the whole route. Be prepared for a lot of scrambling and plenty of elevation gain.

Make sure to bring plenty of water, day hike food, and proper gear for chilly vistas!

5. Biking

Stowe Recreation Path: Rent a bike and ride along the Stowe Rec Path. This is a super popular 5.3 mile paved path through town. It’s a favorite amongst locals for walking, running, and bicycle riding.

The rec path meanders by picturesque fields, woods, farmlands, and alongside the West Branch River, offering great views of the surrounding mountains.

Trapp Family Lodge: You can also tackle the extensive mountain bike trails at Trapp Family Lodge! There are 8 miles of single track and 20 miles of double track, all offering intermediate to expert riders one of the best ways to see the Vermont countryside!

Cady Hill Forest: Cady Hill Forest, a former agricultural area, has transformed into a prominent recreation destination and town forest. It features 11 miles of single-track and double-track trails that cater to a variety of non-motorized recreational activities.

The well-maintained trails and diverse terrain make it an ideal spot for mountain bike riders seeking an exciting and immersive outdoor experience.

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6. Horseback Riding

Experience the fall foliage on horseback with a guided tour from one of the local stables.

Topnotch Resort offers horseback riding experiences for their guests. They have an on-site Equestrian Center that provides various riding programs, including trail rides, riding lessons, and other equestrian activities.

The experienced staff at the Topnotch Equestrian Center caters to riders of all skill levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Be sure to contact the resort directly for more information on availability, pricing, and specific offerings.

Lajoie Stables, located nearby in Jeffersonville, is another excellent option for horseback riding experiences. They offer guided trail rides suitable for riders of various skill levels.

Lajoie is open year-round and has generations of experience! Contact the stable directly for information on availability, pricing, and specific trail offerings, as well as any seasonal changes in their schedules.

7. Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

A horse-drawn carriage ride is a wonderfully unique way to see Stowe Vermont in the fall. Gentle Giants Sleigh and Carriage Rides in Stowe, Vermont, offers visitors a unique and enchanting experience during the fall season.

These memorable rides allow guests to immerse themselves in the charm and beauty of the Vermont countryside while being guided by a team of majestic draft horses. The Gentle Giants’ expertly trained horses and skilled drivers ensure a smooth and comfortable journey through the breathtaking landscape.

8. Arbortrek Canopy Adventures

Float above the vibrant landscape and take in the beauty of the season from a unique perspective! Get ready for an action-packed adventure as you scale, leap, balance, zip, and sprint through the forest on this thrilling Treetop Obstacle Course.

This exciting course is near Stowe in Jeffersonville and offers a blend of breathtaking scenery and a diverse range of challenges, from simple to highly demanding, featuring elements such as unstable bridges, balance beams, rope swings, cargo nets, and log swings. A zipline is also available!

9. Enjoy a Corn Maze

We make a yearly visit to Percy Farm Corn Maze! It’s a fun tradition for locals.

Navigating the twists and turns of a challenging corn maze, like this one, can get you turned around and laughing for sure. No need to panic though because the size of this maze is not intimidating.

Let the maze take you on an adventure and test your navigation skills. If you make it to the center you will find the platform and standing up on it gives you some incredible fall views of the farm.

10. Visit a Scenic Waterfall

Stowe has two amazing waterfalls to enjoy any time of year but they are particularly scenic in the autumn months!

Bingham Falls Trail is an easy to moderate hiking trail that’s perfect for a day out with friends or family. The 40-foot waterfall is gorgeous and cascades down into a blue small pool.

The trek to the falls spans roughly a quarter-mile, with the trail becoming steeper near the bottom. The path tends to be damp and slick so it’s essential to wear appropriate hiking footwear with excellent traction for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Moss Glen Falls hike is a brief yet picturesque trek just a 5-minute drive from Stowe’s historic Village, that leads to a magnificent 85-foot waterfall – the tallest in Vermont!

The trail is easy to navigate by following the brook upstream from the parking area, and hikers can choose between a steeper climb to capture stunning photos or a path along the river’s edge to reach the waterfall’s base. Caution is advised near the falls due to slippery conditions, with inexperienced hikers recommended to stay above the falls to the left.

11. Attend The British Invasion

The British Invasion event in Stowe is a great way to spend a fall day! It is a highly anticipated annual car event held in Stowe, Vermont, celebrating “all things British”. The is even a themed picnic lunch.

This exciting weekend-long gathering takes place in September and attracts British car enthusiasts, collectors, and spectators from all over the United States and Canada. The event is the largest British motorcar show in the United States!

12. Stowe Farmers’ Market

If you are in town for the weekend don’t miss this gem! It takes place every Sunday from 10:30-3pm with the market season ending the third week of October.

Shop for fresh, local produce, artisan goods, and delicious treats at this weekly market. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or stocking up your pantry, the Stowe Farmers’ Market has something for you.

13. Craft Beer Tour at The Alchemist

The secret is definitely out about excellent craft beer in Stowe! The tour at this brewery is an opportunity for beer enthusiasts to explore the renowned Alchemist Brewery.

The Alchemist is famous for its flagship beer, Heady Topper, a highly sought-after double IPA, as well as other exceptional craft beers like Focal Banger and Crusher.

Visitors can enjoy a 30-minute guided tour of the brewery, learning about the brewing process and the company’s history. After the tour, guests get a tasting glass and a can of beer!

This craft beer tour offers a unique experience for those interested in the local beer scene, providing an insider’s look at one of Vermont’s most celebrated breweries.

Also worth visiting is Idletyme Brewing Company! They have a great selection of craft beers and their outdoor patio is perfect for enjoying warmer fall weather. The staff is friendly and always happy to help you choose your favorite beer.

14. Trapp Mountain Marathon

The Trapp Mountain Marathon is a fantastic half and full marathon distance trail running event that showcases the beauty of Stowe, Vermont, and its iconic Trapp Family Lodge trails.

With its challenging course and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a must-do race for trail running enthusiasts and those looking to experience the best of Vermont’s natural landscape.

The event concludes with post-race festivities featuring food, beverages, and live music, allowing runners to unwind and celebrate their achievements amidst the breathtaking surroundings of Stowe, Vermont.

15. Oktoberfest at the von Trapp Brewing Bierhall 

Oktoberfest at the von Trapp Brewing Bierhall in Stowe, Vermont, is a festive celebration of culture, food, and beer. Held annually at the von Trapp Family Lodge, this lively event brings the spirit of Munich’s famous Oktoberfest to New England.

Guests can enjoy traditional German cuisine, live music via the Inseldudler band, and, of course, a variety of delicious von Trapp Brewing beers crafted in the Austrian lager style.

The picturesque mountain setting of the Bierhall provides a stunning backdrop for the festivities, making it an unforgettable experience for beer enthusiasts and those who appreciate the rich heritage and convivial atmosphere of a genuine Oktoberfest celebration. So, don your lederhosen or dirndl and join in the fun!

16. Distillery Tasting

Visit the Smugglers’ Notch Distillery nearby in Waterbury, VT for a tasting of local wines and spirits. You can pay for a tasting of the smooth and delicious bourbons, rums, and vodkas. The folks in the tasting room are super friendly and knowledgeable.

Here, you can also enjoy sampling the very best maple syrup, it is stored in bourbon barrels and aged and it is so tasty! It’s inevitable that you will buy some once you taste it. No worries there, just get some extras to share as gifts around the holidays.

17. Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour

Discover the magic behind your favorite ice cream flavors with a tour of the nearby factory in Waterbury. The Ben & Jerry’s Factory tour is super fun! You’ll get a sample of the flavor of the day at the end of the tour.

But don’t stop there, be sure to visit the scoop shop for an ice cream cone and head to the flavor graveyard for more fun! You’ll find headstones for flavors that have been put to rest such as Wavy Gravy and Creme Brulee. It’s a fun stop.

18. Cold Hollow Cider Mill

Cold Hollow Cider Mill is also right down the road in Waterbury. It’s worth the short drive!

I may become a broken record at times sharing about how much I LOVE the apple cider donuts at Cold Hollow Cider Mill but they are truly so very delicious. Grab a cup of hot cider and a bag of donuts (that’s right, don’t buy just one!) to enjoy on a crisp fall day and you will be very happy.

The gift shop is massive and you are bound to find some great gifts to bring home for the holidays. Also, you can head across the parking lot to sample hard cider as well!

19. Go on a Wine Bar Tour

Since 2015, Savor Vermont (formerly Stowe Tasting Tours) has provided guided tastings of the region’s best beverages and foods. Suitable for both amateurs and connoisseurs, these tours showcase award-winning breweries, cideries, wineries, distilleries, and eateries in Vermont.

The Wine Bar Tour is perfect for ringing in the cooler weather of the fall season! A nice touch is that they offer Door-to-door transportation for those staying in town. Call them at: 802-917-665​6 with questions and to reserve your tour.

20. Browse Shops, the Bookstore, and Art Galleries

Browsing the shops in downtown Stowe, Vermont on Main Street is a delightful experience, with a variety of unique and popular options to explore.

The charming village is home to a diverse array of stores that cater to different tastes and interests. Don’t forget to snap a photo of the iconic Stowe community church!

• Stowe Mercantile: This quaint general store offers an extensive selection of locally made products, including artisanal foods, gifts, and souvenirs. It’s an excellent place to find a special memento of your visit to Stowe.
  
• Bear Pond Books: This is a beloved independent bookstore that offers a diverse selection of books and literary gifts. With a warm and welcoming atmosphere, it invites visitors to browse its shelves filled with the latest bestsellers, children’s books, local interest titles, and more.
  
• Shaw’s General Store: A historic establishment dating back to 1895, Shaw’s General Store features a wide range of items, from outdoor gear and clothing to toys and household goods. This iconic shop is a must-visit for its nostalgic charm and eclectic mix of products.
  
• Remarkable Things at Stowe Craft: Art enthusiasts will appreciate this gallery and store, which offers a curated selection of handcrafted items, including pottery, glassware, and jewelry created by local and national artists.
  
• The Current (formerly the Helen Day Art Center): This is a renowned art center and a vibrant cultural hub that aims to inspire and engage the community through various forms of visual arts. The gallery showcases regularly rotating contemporary and traditional art exhibitions, featuring both local and international artists.

21. Spa Day

Treat yourself to a relaxing spa day at one of Stowe’s luxurious spas, such as The Spa at Stoweflake or Topnotch Resort.

Whether you need to get your nails done, receive a massage, or just take some time for yourself to unwind in a hot tub, Stowe’s spas provide an array of services that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

The quality treatments and friendly service make Stowe the perfect destination to relax and let go of stress. Plus, the view of the fall colors outdoors is breathtaking!

22. Historic Walking Tours

Learn about Stowe’s rich history with a self-guided walking tour of the village’s historic sites. There are also several options for guided educational tours worth doing!

You can book a 1.5-hour walking tour with the Fly Rod Shop which delves into the enchanting history and allure of Historic Stowe Village. You’ll walk the quaint streets, enjoy the classic 18th and 19th-century New England architectural styles, and hear vibrant stories about intriguing characters that have shaped Stowe’s rich and colorful past.

The Trapp Family Lodge also offers history tours! You’ll learn about the real-life story of the von Trapp family, from their origins in Austria to their eventual settlement in picturesque Stowe. Participants will gain insights into the true events and fictional elements of the Sound of Music, as well as the family’s daring escape from Austria.

The tour includes a 20-minute documentary about Maria’s final visit to Salzburg, and some guests may even have the chance to meet a von Trapp family member who can share their personal experiences growing up with Maria. Due to its popularity, it is recommended to book tickets in advance to secure a spot on this highly sought-after tour.

23. Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum

This winter, experience the history of winter sports in Vermont with a visit to the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum. With exhibits and historical artifacts, you can discover how skiing, snowboarding, and other popular winter activities have shaped the state’s culture.

You’ll see vintage ski equipment from the 1910s plus the place is chock full of quirky interesting things. The museum is open year-round but check their seasonal schedule. Be sure to inquire about their Red Bench Speaker’s Series schedule for educational talks or movies offered.

24. Go on a Spooky Lantern Tour

Get into the Halloween spirit with a spooky ghost tour through Stowe’s historic village! Enjoy a captivating nighttime journey at night with Lantern Tours. They offer the perfect blend of ghostly tales and historical insights as you stroll through Stowe’s charming streets.

Guided by the warm glow of your candlelit lantern, you get to listen to intriguing stories about Stowe’s spectral inhabitants and admire the town’s historic architecture. This enchanting tour has been recognized by USA Today as one of the “Top Ten Flickering Lights Tours.”

Call (802) 244-1173 with any questions and to book your tour.

25. Yoga Retreat

Rejuvenate your mind and body with a fall yoga retreat! For a rejuvenating yoga retreat in Stowe, Vermont, consider staying at the Topnotch Resort. This serene destination offers a variety of yoga classes and wellness programs, set amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Green Mountains.

With experienced instructors, luxurious accommodations, and access to spa facilities, you’ll be able to relax, recharge, and immerse yourself in a tranquil yoga experience surrounded by nature.

Additionally, keep an eye out for special yoga events or workshops hosted by local studios or organizations that may offer retreat-style experiences in the Stowe area.

26. Visit a Covered Bridge

Emily’s Bridge, also known as Gold Brook Covered Bridge, is a historic and picturesque covered bridge located in Stowe, Vermont. Built in 1844, this charming wooden bridge spans Gold Brook and is a classic example of 19th-century New England architecture.

The bridge is named after Emily, a local heartbroken legend, who died there long long ago. Since then, many visitors have reported experiencing paranormal activity around the bridge, such as strange noises, unexplained cold spots, and even ghostly sightings.

This historic wooden covered bridge spans the gently flowing Gold Brook, creating an idyllic setting that is quintessentially New England.

27. Scenic Picnic

Pack a picnic and enjoy the crisp autumn air at a scenic spot like Moss Glen Falls or Kirchner Woods on Taber Hill Road.

Always remember to be mindful of neighbors when picnicking in the area and only use the trails from the parking area to access properties open to the public.

Head to Dedalus Wine Shop and Bakery or Commodities Market for some delicious offerings such as premade picnic items as well as fresh bread, charcuterie, cheese, and fruit.

28. Fly Fishing

The Fly Rod Shop in Stowe provides top-quality fly fishing products and gear, along with the state’s leading fly fishing guide service.

They offer year-round half and full-day instructional tours, including ice fishing in winter. Participants receive a brief casting lesson at the shop, followed by a guided excursion to prime fishing locations.

The experienced guides assist with casting techniques, line mending, drifts, and locating fish for an unforgettable fly fishing experience.

29. Paddling

Enjoy a scenic paddle in the Lamoille River or journey down to the Waterbury Reservoir for a quiet experience at one of the best lakes in Vermont! The Lamoille is a calm moving river with peaceful scenery.

Umiak Outdoor Outfitters offers Lamoille River Trip tours and self-guided river floats. They also have an outpost at the Waterbury Reservoir that offers boats to rent. Paddle out to the popular Elephant Rock for a dip and gorgeous views!

Best Time to Visit Stowe, Vermont for Fall Foliage

FAQS: Stowe Vermont in the Fall

I’ve gathered the most frequently asked questions about experiencing Stowe during the popular fall season to help you plan the perfect getaway.

In the summer (June – August), there are warm temperatures and an abundance of sunshine, so it is a very popular time to visit Stowe. The town offers numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, canoeing, and golfing.

In the fall (September – November) Stowe is nothing short of spectacular, as the landscape transforms into a mesmerizing canvas of vibrant fall colors. Visitors flock to Stowe from late September to mid-October to witness the stunning foliage. This is also an excellent time for hiking and scenic drives, as well as visiting local farm stands and other seasonal delights.

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The Wrap-Up on Stowe Vermont in the Fall

No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find plenty of fun and memorable activities to enjoy in Stowe Vermont in the fall when the colors are vibrant and the air is crisp! Make sure you put Stowe,s Vermont on your fall foliage road trip list.

With its stunning landscape, rich history, and warm hospitality, Stowe captures the essence of fall in New England and promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit. Happy exploring!