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Stowe Recreation Path Description

This 5.5-mile path runs (in a line, not a loop) from the quaint village shops up to Mt. Mansfield on a paved path away from traffic -- perfect for bikes and inline skates. Long attention spans aren't required, with plenty of swimming holes (of various depths and ideal for skipping stones), seasonal activities (try the mile-long corn maze in the fall), and open fields (just right for a pick-up game of soccer or baseball) along the way. You can also cross-country ski and snowshoe along the path in the winter, but the path isn't groomed and you may run into rough spots on low-snow days.

Planning Notes

No night-lights here. Locals will be out on the path at all hours, but if a lack of light makes you nervous, stick to daylight hours.

Take the path less-traveled. The dog-friendly (read: off-leash) path that is a side option to the main route (follow the signs for the "quiet path" near the village start) is an even less-traveled option for parents looking for peace and quiet with a sleeping baby or who find the main path too busy for their tastes.

Consider splitting it up. If you or your youngsters aren't up for the full 11-mile path (roundtrip), consider breaking up your walk over a few days or only covering the portions of the route that are of most interest to your family. For example, instead of starting in the village, park the car near the path's access point at Luce Hill Road so that you can peek at the family farms and their animals before turning around and heading back to the car.

Pack a picnic ... or not. Picnic spots are plentiful, but so are great spots to grab light snacks or a full meal. From May through October take advantage of the farmer's market alongside the path (next to the Red Barn Shops) and enjoy fresh lemonade or free-range pork sandwiches, or stroll down one of the path's access point connectors to find Pie in the Sky Pizza (try their $6.95 lunch buffet). Dog lovers will get a kick out of Gracie's Restaurant, with its dog theme and large deck, which is a perfect place to people-watch.

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