The Stowe Recreation Path is the perfect choice for a fun outdoor activity to see some of the best that Stowe has to offer. Panoramic mountain views and access to restaurants, breweries, lodges, and local businesses make it one of the most popular places in Stowe to breathe in the fresh mountain air and get a bit of exercise. The 5.3-mile paved path is open year-round and is perfect for walking, running, or biking.
The path winds its way through the woods and crisscrosses the West Branch of the Little River providing photo opportunities at every turn. Be sure to bring your camera! Bird watchers are sure to see a variety of birds as well as other wildlife such as fox, deer, or moose along the quieter sections of the path.
There are picnic tables and benches along the way, and portable restrooms are available. Playgrounds and other kid-friendly areas can be found along the path. Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit and sunscreen to hop into a swimming hole along the way!
There are several entrances to the path, making it easy to find a spot to start your journey. You can park at either end of the path or in one of the two lots in the middle. If you’d like to start at the top, drive up the Mountain Road and park off Brook Road, just past the Topnotch Resort and Spa on the left. This trailhead is located approximately 3 miles south of the base of the world-class Stowe Mountain Resort.
Rather head up the path? Park behind the Stowe Community Church on Main Street and take some time to check out the postcard-perfect village of Stowe. Before hitting the trail check out all the charming shops and restaurants, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque town. If you love ice cream (and who doesn’t?) be sure and stop at Stowe Sweets conveniently located right by the Community Church and path parking.
Be sure to check out the Stowe Recreation Path website for more information on the path and its history.
Happy trails!
Rent a bike at Pinnacle Ski and Sports on the Mountain Road right on the recreation path. They not only have all kinds of bikes, but tag-a-longs and carts as well. Rentals are available by the hour, half day, or full day.
From mid-summer through late fall be sure and detour off the path to challenge yourself on the Percy Farm Corn Maze!
To reach the northern trailhead:
From I-89, take Exit 10 for SR 100 and head north on SR 100 toward Stowe. Go 9.8 miles, and turn left onto SR 108 N. Go 4.3 miles, and turn left onto Brook Road. The parking lot is on the left in 400 feet.
To get to the southern trailhead:
From I-89, take Exit 10 onto SR 100. Follow SR 100 N toward Stowe 10 miles, the entrance to the Stowe Recreation Path parking lot will be in Lintilhac Park on the left next to Stowe Community Church.
Parking midway:
Chase Park- across from Stony Brook Condominiums on Luce Hill Rd
Thompson Park- off Rte. 108 across from the Percy Farm Corn Maze