What Summer Has In Stowe
By the time June rolls into Stowe, the potential of summer is ripe in the air. The freeze of winter is behind us, the warming of spring is well underway, and the lengthening days cue that summer solstice is imminent. As we move towards the midpoint of the year, here are some of our most anticipated summer traditions, perfect for basking in the sublime fullness of the season in Stowe.
Stowe Balloon Fest
Each July, the Stowe Balloon Festival sets up shop for a weekend of wonder. Hot air balloons launch into the expansive mountainous skyline of Stowe, adding a whimsey to the inherent natural beauty of the area. Festival attendees can see the lift off up close, learn about the history of ballooning, hear live music, and more! There is even a kids corner with activities for little ones, and kids under 12 get in free.
Gear up at Candy Hill Forest
Referred to as a “Mountain Biking Mecca” by the Boston Globe, Stowe is abundantly studded with stunning forest trails. Diverse terrain offers a challenging arena for experienced riders, with many routes for newcomers and more casual wheelers as well. Conveniently situated on the Mountain Road in Stowe, Candy Hill Forest is the flagship trail network of the Stowe Trails Partnership (STP), with 23 trails spanning an impressive 320 acres. Trails are graciously maintained by the STP, ensuring optimal riding conditions all season long.
A Grand Ole 4th
Nothing says summer tradition quite like the 4th of July in Stowe. New England charm shines bright as the town comes together for the sunny holiday. Festivities begin with a mini marathon on the Stowe Recreation path, followed by a parade of floats through downtown, showcasing the spirit of our community members. Once all the hot dogs have been eaten and all the ice cream consumed, the day culminates at dusk with one of Vermont’s most extensive fireworks displays 🎆
Take to the Waterbury
Just south of Stowe, the Waterbury Reservoir is an unmissable destination. From fishing and camping to kayaking and paddleboarding, the shimmering reservoir is a conduit for all forms of summer adventure. There is even a day use beach for swimming and lounging. Don’t want to haul your gear with you on vacation? Save the trouble and rent everything you need at one of Stowe’s gearshops (there is one across the street from us)!
Drink in Outdoor Music
Stowe Cider is an icon of locally crafted artisanal cider, as well as one of our favorite outdoor venues. Picnic tables and fairy lights warm the garden all summer for open mics, and local and touring musicians from in and around Vermont take the stage every Friday and Saturday night. Through September, you can sit among the trees, drink a homegrown brew, and enjoy the nightly melodies.
Ride Out in the Country
One of the joys of a small state is that you can see a lot of it, in not a lot of time. Long summer days make for an ideal time to road trip around the area - The rich landscape and culture of Stowe is tied to its agricultural past, and this history is well conveyed with a drive through farmlands and their longstanding remnants. While Vermont’s size is modest, its sprawling feel is especially potent the more you see.
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Between the natural beauty and a bustling summer events calendar, the density of activity in Stowe could easily fill many sunny days. Whether you have your own traditions or share in ours, we look forward to seeing you in Stowe for a bountiful summer season.
Written by Lily Orrey