7 Scenic Drives Around Stowe, Vermont for Spectacular Views
Stowe, Vermont, is a place where nature’s beauty truly shines, especially in the fall.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s something magical about hitting the road and taking in the vibrant colors, rolling hills, and quaint villages that define this region.
You’re here because you’re ready to explore the best scenic drives around Stowe, where each turn offers a new and breathtaking view.
This article is designed to guide you through the most picturesque routes, perfect for a leisurely drive with the windows down and the crisp autumn air filling your car.
As someone who’s spent a lot of time in Stowe, I’ve discovered that some of the best views are seen not from the hiking trails but from the comfort of your car.
There’s something so relaxing about cruising through the countryside, with the changing leaves painting the landscape in vivid hues.
I wrote this article to share my favorite scenic drives around Stowe, so you can experience the same awe and wonder I feel every time I take these routes.
Inside, you’ll find drives that showcase Vermont’s natural beauty, from mountain vistas to serene lakesides.
1. Smugglers’ Notch
Smugglers’ Notch is one of the most iconic drives near Stowe, offering a thrilling ride through a narrow pass between Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak.
The road twists and turns, with massive boulders flanking either side, creating a dramatic and unforgettable experience.
In the fall, the foliage adds a burst of color to the rugged landscape, making every twist and turn more breathtaking than the last.
It’s a drive that’s not just about the destination but the journey itself, as you wind your way through one of Vermont’s most unique landscapes.
2. Route 100 South
Route 100 is often hailed as one of the most scenic drives in New England, and the stretch south of Stowe doesn’t disappoint.
This route takes you through quintessential Vermont countryside, with rolling hills, picturesque farms, and charming villages.
In the fall, the trees lining the road explode in a riot of color, making it a perfect drive for leaf-peepers.
As you pass through towns like Waterbury and Warren, you’ll be treated to some of the best views in the state, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos or explore.
3. Elmore Mountain Road
Elmore Mountain Road offers a more off-the-beaten-path drive, with stunning views of Lake Elmore and the surrounding mountains.
The road is less traveled, making it a peaceful escape from the busier routes.
As you drive along, you’ll catch glimpses of the lake through the trees, with the mountains rising in the background.
In the fall, the reflections of the colorful trees on the water create a postcard-perfect scene.
It’s a short drive but one that’s packed with beauty, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.
4. Mountain Road (Route 108)
Mountain Road, also known as Route 108, is a must-drive route when in Stowe.
This road takes you from the heart of the village up towards the base of Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak.
As you ascend, the views become more expansive, with the valley opening up below you and the mountains towering above.
The drive is especially stunning in the fall, with the foliage adding vibrant color to the landscape.
Whether you’re heading up for a hike or just taking in the views, this drive is quintessential Stowe.
5. The Notch Road
The Notch Road, officially known as Route 108, is a narrow, winding road that connects Stowe with Jeffersonville.
It’s a drive that’s not for the faint of heart, with tight turns and steep drops, but the views are well worth the effort.
The road winds through a deep notch in the mountains, with towering cliffs on either side and dense forests that come alive with color in the fall.
It’s a drive that feels like an adventure, with new and stunning vistas around every corner.
6. Pleasant Valley Road
Pleasant Valley Road offers a gentle, meandering drive through some of the most beautiful farmland in Vermont.
This road takes you through open fields, pastures, and forests, with the mountains of Smugglers’ Notch providing a stunning backdrop.
The drive is particularly lovely in the fall, with the rolling hills covered in a blanket of colorful leaves.
It’s a peaceful, relaxing drive that showcases the quieter, more pastoral side of Vermont.
7. River Road
River Road offers a scenic drive along the West Branch Little River, just outside of Stowe village.
The road follows the river as it winds through the countryside, offering beautiful views of the water, fields, and forests.
In the fall, the trees along the riverbank burst into color, creating a beautiful contrast with the blue water.
The drive is short but sweet, making it a perfect option for a quick escape from the village to enjoy some peace and quiet in nature.
Conclusion, 7 Scenic Drives Around Stowe, Vermont
Stowe, Vermont, is a haven for scenic drives, especially in the fall when the landscape is ablaze with color.
Whether you’re looking for a challenging mountain pass or a peaceful country road, the drives around Stowe offer some of the best views in New England.
I hope this guide helps you find the perfect route for your next road trip, and that you come away with memories of Vermont’s stunning scenery that last a lifetime.
Happy driving!
