Sterling Falls Gorge- Stowe, Vermont
While Stowe, VT may be more renowned for its skiing, resorts, and restaurants in the winter, we explored a great hidden gem called Sterling Falls Gorge. The gorge defines being off the beaten path.
Getting there was a humbling experience as cell service was poor so we screenshotted some step by step instructions online. Finding the gorge ended up being half the fun, as we got to experience a dynamic ride that quickly transitioned from rolling hills to a dense windy forest. After doing a few circles and ending up in the same spot, we finally made it to the gorge. If you prefer to use GPS, just plug in Sterling Gorge Road.
The path through the gorge was very well maintained and even had a narrated tour on signs scattered along the trail. The signs explain the history of how gorges form and some of the geology of the rocks and crevices. There was also ecological information on local vegetation that grows around the Sterling Falls Gorge.
The hike will take 45 minutes to an hour depending on how often you stop to read the signs. While the path was fairly easy to navigate and there was ropes along the side at steep and narrow sections. It’s important to have comfortable shoes since you will be hiking from the top to bottom of the gorge. One section even has a ladder you have to climb down.
Gorges are a somewhat rare siting in New England. So next time you’re in the Stowe area, take the opportunity to enjoy a narrated hike, waterfall, and seeing a miniature grand canyon all in one hour!
Kristy Albano & Matt Pickering
