Wrangling Winter

A skier in a gray jacket and helmet glides down a snowy slope, surrounded by snow-covered trees under a clear blue sky, exuding a sense of adventure.

In the northeast, winter can be harsh. It brings months of cold, precipitation, and increased darkness. Here in Stowe, we eagerly await this. With winter, comes the snow, and it is in the snow that Stowe takes shape as an alpine wonderland. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to embrace the season's beauty - from adrenaline-pumping adventures to serene nature walks, Stowe is the ski-town for everyone, including those who don’t ski. Let's embark on a journey of "Wrangling Winter" in Stowe, exploring the best ways to embrace the chill.

Skiing and Snowboarding

A red ski gondola with ski gear descends over a snowy mountain landscape, conveying adventure and thrill, against a backdrop of cloudy skies.

Photo Courtesy of Stowe.com

Stowe is renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities. With its array of challenging slopes and powdery snow, Stowe Mountain Resort is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. It was even named one of the top 20 ski resorts in the world by Travel + Leisure! Whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice eager to learn, the resort caters to all levels. Imagine carving through fresh powder with the majestic Green Mountains as your backdrop—a quintessential Stowe winter experience.

Snowshoeing Trails

A tree covered in thick snow stands alone in a snowy field, surrounded by a backdrop of bare, wintery trees under a gray sky, evoking a serene, tranquil mood.

For those seeking a meditative winter adventure, Stowe offers an extensive network of snowshoeing trails. Venture into the still woods, where the only sounds are the crunching of snow beneath your snowshoes and the occasional call of winter birds. Candy Hill Forest and Stowe Recreation Path are popular choices, providing relatively easy access to gorgeous, immersive forests. Go Stowe offers a guide to snowshoeing trails, making it easy to find hikes at varying levels of difficulty.

Ice Climbing

Two climbers in blue jackets and helmets navigate an icy slope, surrounded by towering icicles and snow, conveying a sense of adventure and challenge.

Photo Courtesy of Go Stowe

Thrill-seekers, rejoice! Stowe's frozen waterfalls create a natural playground for ice climbers. Experienced guides are available to assist beginners in safely ascending icy cliffs. It's a challenging yet immensely rewarding activity that allows you to conquer the frozen beauty of Stowe's landscape in a unique and exhilarating way.

Sleigh Rides

A horse-drawn sleigh glides through a snowy field under a cloudy sky. Bare trees line the horizon, evoking a serene and nostalgic winter scene.

For a touch of nostalgia and romance, embark on a horse-drawn sleigh ride through Stowe's snow-covered fields. The crisp winter air, the gentle jingle of sleigh bells, and the stunning views make for a memorable experience. It's a delightful way to appreciate the austere beauty of the countryside up close, all while wrapped in cozy blankets.

Cross-Country Skiing

Three people ski on a snowy, wooded trail. An adult in a blue jacket is on the left, and two children in colorful outfits are on the right, enjoying the winter scene.

Stowe boasts an extensive network of cross-country skiing trails, including over 3,000 acres of conserved land! This makes it a perfect choice for those looking to truly explore, and ready to embrace a challenging alternative to downhill. The von Trapp Family Lodge offers groomed trails for skiers of all levels. Glide through open meadows and dense forests, surrounded by the breathtaking scenery that defines Stowe's winter charm.

Apres-Ski Relaxation

Four people bundled in winter clothing toast drinks at an outdoor table with festive lights in the background, conveying warmth and camaraderie.

Photo Courtesy of Go Stowe

After a day of invigorating - and no doubt, exhausting - outdoor activities, unwind in one of Stowe's many cozy restaurants, breweries, and bars for an apres-ski. Less than a 15 minute drive from the lifts at Stowe Mountain, downtown Stowe is flush with places to warm up, enjoy a local craft brew, and share stories of the day's adventures.

With such a sparkling range of winter outdoor activities, it’s no surprise Stowe is a favored destination this time of year. Whether you're seeking thrills or yearning for a peaceful fireside moment, the winter escape you need is here for you. So bundle up, embrace the chill, and come join us among the mountain magic.

Written by John Rushworth

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