Mountain Biking and Cycling in Vermont:
Stowe is home to Cottonbrook, Vermont's first marked mountain-bike trail on state land. The trail was built as a joint project between Stowe and the Vermont Trails and Greenways Council. Other sanctioned mountain-bike trails are Old County Road, Stowe Hollow and Brownsville. The Stowe Mountain Bike Club is a dedicated group of individuals who are committed to preserving, protecting and maintaining the local trail network.
There is also a great new bike park with jumps and a variety of tracks. The 'pump track' has been a particular favorite with the locals. Look for more development of this great park located near the Stowe Polo Fields.
For those who want a gentler pace, a favorite bicycle ride is on Stowe's award-winning Recreation Path. The 5.3-mile paved trail starts in Stowe Village, winds its way through forests and meadows, and crosses the West Branch River 11 times on arched wooden bridges. Numerous shops, lodges, and restaurants are accessible
Cross Country Skiing:
Stowe's interconnected cross-country ski centers provide one of the largest, most diverse trail systems in the United States. More than 150km of groomed and 100km of back-country trails criss-cross Stowe's landscape. Stowe has something for everyone, featuring perfectly groomed track, smooth wide skating lanes, and some of the finest untracked backcountry skiing anywhere. With trails for people of every ability, you'll find families learning and experts too. Don't be surprised if someone in a U.S. ski team uniform glides past you while you are out having fun.
Have a look at Stowe's nordic map, and check out Stowe's trail system including North America's first touring center, Trapp Family Lodge.
For current snow conditions, visit Trapp Family Lodge and Stowe Mountain Resort's Touring Center.
Mt. Mansfield:
Mt. Mansfield is Vermont’s highest peak (4395') and offers a wide range of terrain for every ability level. It’s well-known for the double-black diamond (most difficult) “Front Four” trails, but also offers some of the longest intermediate cruisers in the East, and a lovely group of beginner trails in the Toll House area. Spruce Peak is geared toward beginner and intermediate skiers and riders. Lower Spruce – the area nearest the Spruce Base Are Complex – is a great place to learn, while Upper Spruce is the next step up. Check out the interactive trail guide and think about where you’d like to explore. Check out the different Mountain Zones to get a feel for the places that suit your style and ability. Trip the night fantastic, and carve down the slopes of Mt. Mansfield under a canopy of stars. Interested in cross-country skiing or snowshoeing? Visit the mountain chapel. See this week’s photos , or check out the Video Gallery for a sense of what’s happening on and around the mtn
Other Activities:
canoeing, kayaking, hiking, ice and rock climbing
