Adventures on the Rec Path- Stowe, Vermont
Daringly flying down the side of a steep mountain has never been of interest to me. The ski lodge, on the other hand, with an apres ski libation and a roaring fire, is definitely in my wheelhouse. Although winter sports aren’t my forte, Stowe, Vermont is still a top destination of mine. I like to keep myself grounded in Stowe, not like others who are hanging on a cliffside, mountain climbing, or racing down icy terrains dodging trees. But don’t worry, the Stowe region isn’t only beer and Ben and Jerry’s for me.
One of my favorite spots is the Stowe Recreation Path. This mostly level, 5.3-mile path is perfect whether you are walking, running, or bike riding. The route follows the course of the west branch of the Little River from downtown Stowe to the foot of the mountains, generally paralleling Mountain Road, Route 108. Its bridges criss-cross the river to and fro. The landscape varies, summing up the best of Vermont in a relatively short distance. Cornfields and farms, mountains and crystal clear streams provide the natural backdrop for the rec path jaunt. The view changes with the season and the path provides access to much of Stowe’s top spots including downtown stores, and the restaurants and hotels of Mountain Road.
Covering the Ground in Stowe
Although I’ve been utilizing the path for almost thirty years, the bridges that span the river still look new. They’re also exciting to bike, walk, or run over. There is nothing quite like the sound of two wheels riding over the wooden planks of the bridge. The twists and turns of the path, coupled with the ever-changing scenery, keep the route exciting and never boring. What is neat is that in addition to recreation, the path is utilitarian. It’s close to many restaurants. Stowe has consistently been a culinary destination. As a kid, some of my favorite restaurants were Mr. Pickwick’s Pub, Whiskers, and the Shed. These three have shuttered, but newer also tasty arrivals include Idletyme Brewing Company, the Bench, and Doc Ponds. Many of the ingredients used in the kitchens of Stowe are locally sourced.
Beer, of course…
Of course, Vermont is synonymous with beer. Stowe happens to have one of the world’s (yes, literally the world’s) top breweries, The Alchemist. Known for their famed Heady Topper double IPA, the Alchemist’s branding couples zany Vermont eccentricities with their robust, flavorful concoctions. (Their brewery is located close to the rec path on Cottage Club Road). Stowe’s local watering holes and eating establishments’ beer lists recall a BeerAdvocate best of. The lists include other regional favorites such as Hill Farmstead, Upper Pass, and Frost Beer Works. With so many destinations located right off of the rec path, it is easy to stay grounded in Stowe!
The Route
Starting behind the classic New England emblem the Stowe Community Church, the Rec Path begins its paved journey to the foot of the mountains. The first bridge sits just past the parking lot. The initial leg includes more bridge travel and a spur trail called the Stowe Quiet Path, accessible to foot traffic only. This grassy path passes athletic fields with striking views of Mount Mansfield. Back on the main rec path, it winds its way closer to the road, behind restaurants, hotels, and businesses. It eventually crosses the Mountain Road at its intersection with Cape Cod Road and then descends back into the foliage. It follows the river in the back of popular restaurants with idyllic freshwater vistas. The west branch of the Little River’s water looks so clear that I’m always tempted to take a drink, or at least fill my water bottle.
As the path bends away from the road, it skirts underneath Luce Hill Road next to Chase Park (another popular parking area). The remaining length of the path passes by cornfields and farms with the majestic Mount Mansfield rising above it all. This is the most wooded section of the route, as the major development of the Mountain Road gives way to less commercialism and more natural beauty. Look for the horses along with in-season carriage and sleigh rides closer to the terminus of the path. While grounded in Stowe, notice that it is just as beautiful as it is from atop the mountain.
And Good for Kids too!
The Rec Path is a wonderful way to link the town of Stowe. It is a perfect activity to go for a bike ride or a walk and grab a bite to eat at one of the fine restaurants along the way. Many bike rental shops are located close to the path so those without their own set of wheels can enjoy the picturesque views. The Rec Path is one of my son’s favorite places too. Heck, even the picture of him and I on the About Me page is taken after a walk on it. He just loves running full tilt on the path and over the bridges (as well as dodging bicycles). During my last visit with him, he especially enjoyed throwing fallen apples down a steep embankment into the river water (or even better, throwing the apples off of the wooden bridge splashing into the water below). Whatever you do, run, bike, or walk, get out there and enjoy the natural splendor of Stowe. For all you non-skiers, tell your friends that being “grounded in Stowe” is just as fun!
Informational Links
Stowe Online: http://www.gostowe.com
The Alchemist: http://alchemistbeer.com
Idletyme Brewing Company: http://idletymebrewing.com
The Bench restaurant: http://www.benchvt.com
Doc Ponds restaurant: http://www.docponds.com
Upper Pass Beer: http://upperpassbeer.com
Frost Brew Works: http://www.frostbeerworks.com
Hill Farmstead: http://hillfarmstead.com
More beverage, more nature?
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