Whether you want to take a rest day from the slopes, or are looking to try something new, there are a variety of other activities to try in Stowe during the winter months.
Cross Country Skiing
While many people are familiar with the excellent skiing and snowboarding at Stowe, few realize that the area is also a premier cross country skiing destination. An incredible network of trails connects the four major touring centers: Trapp Family Lodge, Stowe Mountain Resort , Topnotch Touring Center and Edson Hill Cross Country Center. Whether you are looking for a groomed skating track or more relaxing backcountry experience, you are sure to find it along the many miles of trails that criss cross the area. Even if you have never been before, equipment and instruction are available at each center. Cross country skiing is a great, low impact way to enjoy the beauty of winter in Stowe.
Sleigh Rides
Sleigh rides are another wonderful way to experience the winter wonderland that is Stowe, whether it’s with a large group or just a romantic outing for two. The following companies offer sleigh rides, and often dinner packages as well:
Stowehof Take a quaint trip through the woods 800-932-7136
Trapp Family Lodge Enjoy an old fashioned sleigh ride at this European mountain resort. 802-253-8511
Dog Sledding
Many people have experienced a horse drawn sleigh, but how about whisking around the winter landscape pulled by team of sled dogs? This is an excellent way to take in all the scenery of the area, as well as get a taste of how people traveled during the winter before cars and snowmobiles.
Some folks prefer to view the scenery at a faster pace. For them, there are a variety of options for getting out on snowmobiles around the Stowe area in winter. Stowe Snowmobile Tours is the best place to start for rentals and info on the many trails that are accessible. Guided tours are also available so you can experience the best the area has to offer. Both single and two-seater machines are available.
Snowshoeing
Like cross country skiing, snowshoeing is a great way to experience the outdoors in winter that just about anyone can try. If you like walking or hiking in the summer, then you might enjoy snowshoeing as well. From flat walks to steep hikes to the top of the surrounding Green Mountains, there is something for all ability levels around Stowe.
Equipment and information is available at these shops:
A.J.'s Ski & Sports, Boots 'n Boards, the Nordic Barn, Pinnacle Ski & Sports, Shaw's General Store, Trapp Family Lodge and Umiak Outfitters.
Guided tours are also available from the Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa, Trapp Family Lodge, and Umiak Outfitters.
Ice Skating
The Jackson Arena in Stowe is an indoor skating rink that offers rentals right in the center of town. The Commodres Inn and Golden Eagle Resort offer skating on their ponds, you’ll want to check the conditions of the ice ahead of time with them. Rentals are available on site and at Umiak Outfitters.