Quick Facts: Your Burlington to Stowe Day Trip
Get a bird’s-eye view of your adventure before we dive into the details. Here’s everything you need to know at a glance for a perfect day trip to Stowe in 2025.
| Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | ~36 miles (58 km) |
| Driving Time | 45-60 minutes one-way |
| Best Time to Visit | Fall (foliage), Summer (hiking), Winter (skiing) |
| Estimated Day Cost | $75 – $150 per person (excluding ski lift tickets) |
How to Get from Burlington to Stowe
Getting from the shores of Lake Champlain to the heart of the Green Mountains is a breeze. While there are a few options, one stands out as the clear winner for a day trip.
Driving from Burlington to Stowe (The Best Option)
The easiest and most flexible way to reach Stowe is by car. The drive is a scenic journey in itself, transitioning from cityscapes to rolling hills and finally to the majestic peaks of the Green Mountains. The primary route is straightforward: take I-89 South to Exit 10 for Waterbury/Stowe, then follow the picturesque VT Route 100 North straight into Stowe village. The journey is short, but the views are worth savoring!
CRITICAL ROAD CLOSURE: Smugglers’ Notch Pass (Route 108)
Please be aware that the iconic and winding Smugglers’ Notch Pass (Route 108), which connects Stowe to the Smugglers’ Notch resort area, is CLOSED IN WINTER. The road typically closes after the first significant snowfall around mid-October and does not reopen until the snow has melted in the spring, usually in mid-May. Always check the road status before attempting this scenic drive in the shoulder seasons.
Public Transportation & Other Options
While driving is highly recommended, it’s helpful to know the alternatives. For a day trip, public transport is time-consuming and not very practical. Here’s a quick comparison of your options:
| Method | Time (One-Way) | Cost (One-Way) | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving | 45-60 min | Gas (~$5-10) | Excellent |
| Bus (GMT) | 1.5 – 2+ hours | ~$4-8 | Poor (requires transfers) |
| Train (Amtrak) + Taxi | 1.5+ hours | $20 (train) + $30-40 (taxi) | Poor & Expensive |
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | 45-60 min | $50-70+ | Good, but very expensive |
As you can see, driving gives you the freedom and efficiency needed to make the most of your day in the mountains.
Top 5 Things to Do in Stowe on a Day Trip
Stowe is packed with activities for every type of traveler. If you only have one day, these five experiences will give you the perfect taste of what makes this mountain town so special.
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Ride the Gondola SkyRide up Mount Mansfield
For jaw-dropping, panoramic views of the Green Mountains, nothing beats the Gondola SkyRide at Stowe Mountain Resort. Open during the summer and fall for scenic rides, this enclosed gondola whisks you to the “chin” of Vermont’s highest peak. Pro Tip: Have lunch at the Cliff House Restaurant at the top for a meal you’ll never forget. (Cost: ~$38 for adults, ~$27 for children).
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Explore Historic Stowe Village
Step into a real-life postcard as you wander down Stowe’s charming Main Street. Lined with unique local shops, art galleries, and cafes, the village is anchored by the iconic white-steepled Stowe Community Church. Don’t miss the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum (free admission!) to learn about the area’s rich winter sports history. Pro Tip: Skip the metered street parking and use the free public lots located just behind the church or near the Visitor Center.
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Take a Legendary Scenic Drive
Stowe offers two incredible, but very different, scenic drives. You can either take the Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road (~$32 per car) for a 4.5-mile drive up to the summit ridgeline, or (season permitting) navigate the dramatic, boulder-lined twists and turns of Smugglers’ Notch Pass (Route 108). Remember, the Toll Road and Smugglers’ Notch are seasonal, so check that they’re open before you go!
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Visit a Famous Brewery or Cidery
Vermont is a craft beverage paradise, and Stowe is one of its epicenters. Make a pilgrimage to The Alchemist to sample their world-famous Heady Topper IPA. For a different vibe, visit the grand, Austrian-style von Trapp Brewing Bierhall for crisp lagers and delicious food. On your way in or out of town, stop at Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury for legendary cider donuts and a taste of authentic Vermont.
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Take a Short Hike to a Waterfall
You don’t need to be a seasoned mountaineer to enjoy Stowe’s natural beauty. A short, accessible hike to Moss Glen Falls is the perfect day trip activity. The trail is less than a mile round trip and leads you to the base of one of Vermont’s tallest and most beautiful waterfalls. It’s an incredible reward for very little effort.
Sample One-Day Stowe Itinerary from Burlington
Want a foolproof plan for your day? Follow this schedule to hit all the highlights without feeling rushed.
| Time | Activity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Depart from Burlington | Grab coffee and hit the road. Enjoy the beautiful drive on I-89 and VT-100. |
| 10:00 AM | Arrive & Ride the Gondola | Head straight to Stowe Mountain Resort. Ride the Gondola SkyRide for panoramic morning views before it gets crowded. |
| 12:00 PM | Lunch at von Trapp Bierhall | Drive to the Bierhall for Austrian-inspired food and fresh lager in a beautiful setting. |
| 2:00 PM | Explore Stowe Village | Park in a free lot and wander Main Street. Pop into shops, see the church, and visit the Ski Museum. |
| 3:30 PM | Scenic Drive & Short Hike | Choose your adventure: Drive the Auto Toll Road (if you didn’t do the gondola) OR take the short, rewarding hike to Moss Glen Falls. |
| 5:00 PM | Sweet Treat at Cold Hollow Cider Mill | On your way back towards I-89, stop for fresh cider donuts and Vermont products. It’s a must-do! |
| 6:00 PM | Drive back to Burlington | Head home after a full day of mountain adventures, with memories (and maybe some donuts) to share. |
Where to Eat in Stowe (For Every Budget)
From quick bites to gourmet meals, Stowe’s food scene has something for everyone. Here are a few local favorites.
Quick & Casual ($)
- The Bagel: Perfect for a fast, delicious, and budget-friendly breakfast or lunch.
- The Roastery: Known for excellent coffee, fresh pastries, and light cafe fare. A great morning or afternoon stop.
Sit-Down & Savory ($$)
- Doc Ponds: A bustling spot with fantastic burgers, a huge craft beer list, and a fun, retro atmosphere.
- Piecasso Pizzeria & Lounge: A family-friendly favorite serving up creative pizzas, pasta, and salads in a vibrant setting.
A Fancier Affair ($$$)
- Harrison’s Restaurant & Bar: Located in the heart of the village, offering cozy, classic American fine dining.
- The Bistro at Ten Acres: Enjoy upscale farm-to-table cuisine in a beautifully converted 19th-century farmhouse.
Insider Tips for Your Stowe Day Trip
A little local knowledge goes a long way. Keep these tips in mind to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
- Check Road Status First: Before you leave, always double-check if the Mount Mansfield Auto Toll Road and Smugglers’ Notch Pass (VT-108) are open, especially in late spring or mid-fall.
- Book Dining in Advance: Popular restaurants like Doc Ponds or the von Trapp Bierhall can get very busy, particularly on weekends. Consider making a reservation to avoid a long wait.
- Dress in Layers: Mountain weather is famously unpredictable. A sunny morning in the village can turn into a chilly, windy afternoon at the top of the gondola. Layers are your best friend!
- Combine with Waterbury Stops: The town of Waterbury is right on your route. Maximize your trip by stopping at the famous Ben & Jerry’s Factory or Cold Hollow Cider Mill on your way to or from Stowe.
– Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing more walking than you think, even if you’re just exploring the village shops. Happy feet make for a happy traveler.
Estimated Day Trip Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Here’s a realistic look at what you can expect to spend, not including major expenses like ski lift tickets or big shopping sprees.
| Category | Low End | High End | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transportation (Gas) | $5 | $10 | Assuming you are driving your own car. |
| Food & Drink | $30 | $75 | Coffee & bagel vs. a nice sit-down lunch & brewery stop. |
| Activities | $0 | $50 | Free hikes vs. paying for the Gondola or Auto Toll Road. |
| Total Estimated Cost | ~$35 | ~$135 | Your day can be as budget-friendly or as lavish as you wish! |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to drive from Burlington to Stowe?
The drive from Burlington to Stowe is approximately 36 miles and typically takes between 45 to 60 minutes without any significant traffic or weather delays.
Is there a train from Burlington to Stowe?
No, there is no direct train service to Stowe. The nearest Amtrak station is in Waterbury, which is about 10 miles away. From the Waterbury station, you would need to arrange a taxi, rideshare, or a connecting bus to reach Stowe.
What is the best time to visit Stowe, Vermont?
The best time to visit really depends on your interests! Fall (late September to mid-October) is world-famous for its stunning foliage. Summer (June-August) is perfect for hiking and outdoor activities. Winter (December-March) is the premier season for skiing and snowboarding.
How many days do you need in Stowe?
You can see the main highlights of Stowe, including the village and a major attraction like the gondola, on a single day trip from Burlington. However, to fully enjoy extended hiking, skiing, or exploring the surrounding area, a weekend trip of 2-3 days is recommended.
TL;DR: Your Perfect Stowe Day Trip
No time to read it all? Here are the key takeaways for an amazing day trip from Burlington to Stowe:
- Drive yourself. It’s the fastest, easiest, and most flexible way to get there (45-60 mins).
- Ride the Gondola SkyRide for the best views of Mount Mansfield.
- Explore Stowe’s historic village and snap a photo of the iconic church.
- Stop for cider donuts at Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury on your way.
- WARNING: Smugglers’ Notch Pass (Route 108) is closed all winter. Don’t rely on your GPS to take you that way from October to May!
