There’s nothing quite as beautiful as autumn in Vermont. The fall season lights up Stowe’s best features with its covered bridges, church steeples and tree-lined roads playing a starring role against a blazing red, orange and yellow backdrop. You can feel the chill in the air when you wake up, yet be comfortable for a guided hike or bike ride in the afternoon. While the peak colors have passed, (foliage updates here) you still have a few weeks to head out and enjoy what remains of the fall colors.

When the snow falls, Stowe transforms into a winter playground.  So if you miss the foliage, be sure to plan a long weekend to visit during the winter months.

Stowe Mountain Resorts

Recently voted one of the top family-friendly hotels in the US, Stowe Mountain Lodge offers luxurious accommodations in a perfect location.  It’s the ideal home base for your family’s fall adventures. The resort is a convenient 45 minutes from Burlington and just down the road from the popular Smuggler’s Pass.  The resort offers numerous outdoor activities for kids such as cycling, fishing, zip lining, soaring and horseback riding.  There’s an amazing spa for mom and dad can head to the Stowe Mountain Golf Club to fit in 18 holes.  Make sure you shop the online discounts and find a deal (it can get a little pricey).

Another lodge experience, in a more traditional European/Austrian style, is the the Trapp Family Lodge.  It offers a cozy, laid-back atmosphere and over 2,500 acres to hike and enjoy the fantastic surroundings.  The grounds are spectacular, featuring gardens, greenhouses, hot tub and well-maintained hiking trails.  The kids will enjoy swimming and playing in the indoor pool.

Stowe Recreation Path

Bike, skate and walk along this paved and largely flat path that offers an unbeatable journey through the fall scenery.  The Stowe Recreation Path trail begins in Stowe Village and crosses the West Branch River on 11 old-style wooden bridges.  You can rent bikes or snowshoes at several shops along the path.  The 5.3-mile path winds through colorful hills and meadows. Great way to tire out the kids!

Hot Air Ballooning

Put this on your list! Take a hot air balloon ride to see the fall splendor from a unique vantage point. Book your flight over the Champlain Valley and the shores of Lake Champlain.  Don’t forget your camera for some stunning panoramic photo opportunities.

Have you taken your family to visit Stowe in the fall or winter?  What were some of your favorite activities?

Read more:

See Fall in a Whole New Lighthouse

Frank and Foliage

3 River Cruises for Fall Foliage

Fall Music Festivals