While many know the small town of Stowe, Vermont as a ski resort area, you may be surprised to know that, beyond winter sports, Stowe aims to provide the ultimate Vermont spring family vacation experience.
There is much to do in this quaint Vermont town besides skiing. Stowe is a lovely place to bring the family for a fun-filled getaway any time of year, but is particularly spectacular in the spring.
Stowe lies in a broad, fertile valley between Mount Mansfield and other peaks of the Green Mountains to the west, and the Worcester Range or “Hogback” Mountains to the east.
Whatever your fancy — sweet treats, picturesque strolls, hiking, the list is endless — here is plenty for your family to do during your stay in Stowe. Here are a few suggestions:
Learn how cider is made and enjoy a free sample at Cold Hollow Cider Mill.
Established in 1974 in an historic, old Vermont barn, it has become New England’s most famous cider mill and a Vermont specialty foods & crafts store. Take your family to observe cider-making and enjoy free samples. Open year-round.
Eden Dog-Sled & Dog-Cart Tours
Try Dog-Sledding-On-Wheels at Eden Dog-sledding. It combines the excitement of a fast-paced dog cart ride with fun, hands-on learning about dog sledding and canines, and lots of once-in-a lifetime memories hanging out with friendly Alaskan Huskies in a beautiful mountain setting. Great for families with kids of all ages.
See how gourmet ice cream is made, then tickle your taste buds with delicious samples.
Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Factory Tour, recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top 10 tour experiences in the country, costs $3 for adults and is free for children 12 and younger.
Stroll the Stowe Recreation Path
The 8.5 kilometre recreation path is paved and mostly flat, perfect for kids of all ages. The award-winning trail starts in Stowe Village, winds through meadows and crosses the West Branch River on 11 arched wooden bridges.
Appletree Learning Centres offers expert entertainment for kids and families visiting Stowe. The Family Discovery program offers full-day and half-day guided adventures, designed around your family’s interests, abilities and schedule.
Vacation camps are planned weekly for school-age children (five and older) during most school vacations and other holidays. Children are transported in Appletree vehicles to special places in and around Stowe.
Join Appletree to learn ice skating, snow shoeing, dog sledding, dog carting, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, mountain biking, rock climbing, shelter building, and much more.
Gentle Giants
A Gentle Giants ride begins through a charming covered bridge onto a winding wooded trail along an open brook, then out into a meadow trail with spectacular views of Mt. Mansfield-Vermont’s highest peak. All rides are private.
www.stowe.com
www.gostowe.com
Photo: Ben & Jerry’s