Stowe Away Where Trails Are Green

Stowe, Vt., is one of New England’s major ski centers, but while it’s still green, it’s also a compelling destination for hikers. The town’s backdrop is mighty Mt. Mansfield, Vermont’s 4,393-foot high point.

Vermont’s famed Long Trail and an extensive trail network explore the many beauties of the Green Mountains around Stowe. In spring, follow pathways to impressive waterfalls, and in autumn tramp through colorful woods.

Stowe’s premier trail is Stowe Recreation Path, a paved walkway that extends 5 1/2 miles from the village to the Mt. Mansfield ski area.

You can join the path from the trail head behind Community Church in the village, from Luce Hill Road (the road leading to Trapp Family Lodge) and from several other trail heads.

Chunky Monkey- and Cherry Garcia-loving hikers will be pleased to find that the Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream factory is eight miles south of Stowe in Waterbury, Vt.

From Mt. Mansfield, hikers savor views of the Green Mountains and the Adirondacks. Mt. Mansfield Auto Road (toll) is a 4 1/2 mile gravel road that leads high onto the mountain’s shoulder; from there it’s a 1 1/2 mile hike to the summit.

Two nearby waterfalls entice Stowe hikers. Some Vermonters say the state’s finest is Bingham Falls. From Stowe, follow Vermont 108 to the parking area.

Dramatic Moss Glen Falls is visited by a fern-lined path through the woods. From Stowe, drive three miles north on Vermont 100, then turn right onto Moss Glen Falls Road.

The Trapp Family, those famed singing Austrians of “The Sound of Music,” relocated to Stowe because it reminded them of Austria. Trapp Family Lodge (Trapp Hill Road, Stowe, VT 05672; telephone [800] 826-7000) emphasizes its natural surroundings--2,000 acres of forest accessible by 40 miles of trails.

For hiking information about Stowe and Mt. Mansfield, contact the Green Mountain Club, Inc., RR1, Box 650, Waterbury Center, VT 05677; tel. (802) 244-7037.

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Stowe Recreation Path

Where: Stowe, Vt.

Distance: 5.5 miles one way

Terrain: Valley at foot of Mt. Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak.

Highlights: Major New England hiking and sking center.

Degree of difficulty: Easy

Precautions: Wear your best waterproof boots and clothing.

For more information: Stowe Area Assn.; tel. (800) 24-STOWE.