3 Sep
2009
Still making last-minute plans for the Labor Day weekend? Consider
Stowe, VT. Unlike many of its sibling ski resorts, Stowe truly is an all-season getaway. Whether it is hiking in the Green Mountains, boating on Lake Champlain, or just kicking it back in a luxury resort that appeal to you, there is something in or around Stowe for every taste. What's more is that most people seem to still think of it as a ski resort, so finding lodging in Stowe during the summer is not impossible even on late notice.
Stowe is small town in Northern Vermont about 50 miles South of the Canadian border, 30 miles East of Lake Champlain and 30 miles North of the Green Mountain National Forest. During the Winter, Stowe is the epicenter of local fun - every other hotel has a ski slope in the back yard. In the summer, however, the atmosphere is more laid back as travelers scatter around the area in search of adventure while others lay back and observe the mountains from the poolside.
What to do when you are there? If you're up for some hiking, head down the scenic route 100 to
Mad River Valley. There are trail heads at every turn of the road,but the must-sees are Moss Glen Falls and Warren Falls. The former,especially powerful after a rain can be seen right from route 100. The later is a true hidden gem: away from the road (but identifiable by a large parking lot), Warren Falls is a collection of emerald-green pools filled with a stream rushing through giant boulders covered in moss. The sight is truly magnificent, but what's even more interesting is that you can swim in the pools (dubbed swimming holes) and even dive from the surrounding rocks. For the more experienced hikers - check out the trails of the nearby Granville Gulf accessible from route 57.
After you're done adventuring, there are lots of things to do in Stowe that don't require sneakers. The
factory tour at Ben and Jerry's is fun and educational for the kids, (if not very nutritious), and the outlets of Cabot Cheese and Lake Champlain Chocolates, among other local producers, always offer samplings.
If you are boater, you probably don't need to read this to know that Lake Champlain is one of the most amazing places to be in the Northeast. Between the endless amount of coves, islands and waterways to explore as well as straight passage to the Gulf of St. Lawrence there is something for kayaks as well as for yachts. Just don't count on swimming - the beaches aren't well-developed and the lake has been
reported to be polluted. Even if you are not a boater though, the vibrant Burlington waterfront is a great place to take in a stunning view of the lake, the Adirondacks and the sunset beyond.
Accommodations abound all around the area. If you're on a budget, consider staying at the
Fairfield Inn by Marriott in Williston (they run great AAA deals) - a short drive to everything mentioned above. If you're looking to go all-out though, the
Topnotch Resort and Spa in Stow is hard to beat - in lodging, dining, and amenities. If you're looking to be closer to a city, the Hilton Burlington Waterfront is a good bet. And if you are looking to have what possibly is the best view from any hotel room in the East - consider the
Trapp Family Lodge, the filming sight of the
Sound of Music. This mountain-top retreat truly offers a sight to behold so even stopping by for 10 minutes is worth it. Keep in mind though, that this old gem has lost some of its luster, so don't expect 5-star treatment if you stay there. Finally, if you like travelling wherever the road takes you and not booking ahead - the aforementioned route 100 is lined with motels and B&B's North and South of Stowe.
Have you already been to Stow in the summer? If so, let me know what you think, and if not - I hope I've convinced you. Happy Labor Day!
