A Winter Retreat in Stowe, Vermont

There are few better places to spend a winter getaway in New England than Stowe, Vermont. While this little nook of a town gets most of its attention during the fall when tourists arrive for the foliage by the busload, it also has some pretty unbeatable winter adventures and some of the best downhill skiing in the region. 

Sitting at the base of Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak in the northern part of the state, Stowe is known to have some of the best snow around, with a large resort and several cross-country centers to prove it. 

A great place to start your winter adventure is at the The Smuggler's Notch Nordic Center, which offers miles of groomed cross-country and snowshoeing trails as well as rentals and a variety of trails well suited for beginners or more advanced athletes. 

Another great option in Stowe for cross-country skiing are the trails at The Stowe Recreation Path, which offer a 5.3-mile groomed trail for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing day trips. 

For something a little more wild, check out the many backcountry skiing locations close to town, including Michigan Valley, Little Jay, and the Birthday Bowls. While these aren't necessarily as backcountry as some might like, all of these three trail areas offer more seclusion and fresher powder (as well as a more challenging approach) than the ski centers in the area. 

If you're looking for a slower climb, grab some snowshoes and check out the trail at Stowe Pinnacle. This steep 3.10-mile climb will take you up to some of the most incredible views in the region, and it is a great hike for pretty much any time of the year (with the exception of early spring when trails are too muddy). 

Another great option for snowshoeing is the trail along Nebraska Notch, a moderate climb that showcases nearby ponds from high up. 

For a low-key snowy day, check out Casey's Hill. A popular sledding spot (especially on sunny weekends), this is a great place to spend a day outside before heading back to a toasty lodge.