Moss Glen Falls Stowe
A breathtaking cascade surrounded by mossy rocks and lush trees, offering a refreshing mist and a short, scenic hike.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Moss Glen Falls Stowe
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking cascade surrounded by mossy rocks and lush trees, offering a refreshing mist and a short, scenic hike.
"Moss Glen Falls is such a stunning hidden gem! The short hike is easy and scenic, leading to a powerful waterfall."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be muddy and uneven, especially near the top. Hiking boots are recommended for comfort and safety.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is generally available, but can fill up quickly during peak foliage season. Arrive early for the best chance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Moss Glen Falls
Main waterfall
A powerful cascade surrounded by mossy rocks and lush trees, offering a refreshing mist and stunning natural beauty.
Mossy Gorges and Pools
Below the main falls
Explore the unique rock formations and serene pools carved by the water, creating a picturesque and tranquil environment.
Scenic Boardwalk Trail
Trail entrance
An accessible and well-maintained path, partly covered by boardwalks, leading you directly to the breathtaking waterfall.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Fall Foliage
Footwear for the Falls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be muddy and uneven, especially near the top. Hiking boots are recommended for comfort and safety.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is generally available, but can fill up quickly during peak foliage season. Arrive early for the best chance.
📸 Capture the Mist
Get close to the falls to feel the refreshing mist and capture stunning photos of the cascading water.
🚶♀️ Easy Access Trail
The main path is a short, relatively flat walk with boardwalks, making it accessible for most visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Trails can be muddy and uneven, especially near the top. Hiking boots are recommended for comfort and safety.
🚗 Parking Availability
Parking is generally available, but can fill up quickly during peak foliage season. Arrive early for the best chance.
📸 Capture the Mist
Get close to the falls to feel the refreshing mist and capture stunning photos of the cascading water.
🚶♀️ Easy Access Trail
The main path is a short, relatively flat walk with boardwalks, making it accessible for most visitors.
🍂 Fall Foliage Hotspot
Visit in early October for vibrant fall colors, but expect more visitors during this popular time.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Moss Glen Falls, calling it a stunning and refreshing hidden gem with an easy, scenic hike. The powerful waterfall, mossy rocks, and surrounding nature create a peaceful and beautiful experience. While the trail is generally accessible, some find the stairs and uneven terrain near the top challenging.
"Moss Glen Falls is such a stunning hidden gem! The short hike is easy and scenic, leading to a powerful waterfall surrounded by mossy rocks and tall trees. You can feel the mist from the falls up close. Peaceful, refreshing, and totally worth a quick stop while exploring Stowe."
Flora
"Very easy hike if you can do some stairs. Approximately 10 minutes. You can also climb to be under the falls"
Kary
"A rainy April day made for a wet and muddy hike, but it was absolutely worth it. We had the entire trail to ourselves, which gave us a rare chance to truly connect with nature in its most raw and beautiful form. The only sounds were the songs of birds and the rustle of the forest—pure serenity. At times, it felt like we were the only people left on earth. Though the path was muddy in spots, the boardwalk helped in the wetter areas. An unforgettable experience and a must-see!"
Caryn Schutz
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Moss Glen Falls is located off Route 108 (Mountain Road) in Stowe, Vermont. There is a parking area available, and the trailhead is easily accessible from there.
Yes, there is a parking area at Moss Glen Falls. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak fall foliage season and on weekends. Arriving early is advised.
While the falls are accessible in winter, conditions can be icy and challenging. Snowfall may also obscure the trail. It's best to check local conditions before visiting in winter.
Yes, Moss Glen Falls is located along the scenic Route 108, which is also the route for Smugglers' Notch Pass. It's a convenient stop when driving through the area.
The most direct route is via Route 108 (Mountain Road) from Stowe village. The falls are well-marked along this scenic byway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit Moss Glen Falls. It is a publicly accessible natural attraction.
Moss Glen Falls is open year-round, from dawn to dusk. However, visitor access and trail conditions can vary with the seasons.
There is no entrance fee for Moss Glen Falls. It's a free natural attraction for everyone to enjoy.
Tours are not typically offered for Moss Glen Falls as it's a self-guided natural site. You can explore it at your own pace.
General park rules apply, such as staying on marked trails and not littering. Be mindful of the natural environment.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Moss Glen Falls is very short, approximately 1/4 mile one way, making it about a 1/2 mile round trip. It's a quick and rewarding walk.
The main trail is generally considered easy, with some boardwalks and stone stairs. It can become muddy and uneven, especially near the top, requiring some effort.
Moss Glen Falls is beautiful year-round, but it's particularly stunning during the fall foliage season (early October) for vibrant colors and in spring/early summer when the water flow is strongest.
Swimming is generally not recommended or permitted in the immediate area of the falls due to strong currents and slippery rocks. Enjoy the view from the designated paths.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, and a camera. If visiting during fall, layers are recommended. Insect repellent might be useful in warmer months.
📸 📸 Photography
The base of the falls offers a great perspective for capturing the power and mist. The boardwalk provides scenic vantage points, and the top area offers a different angle, though it can be crowded.
Yes, the short trail makes it easy to access good photo spots. However, the top area can be small and crowded, making it challenging to get a clear shot without others.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire waterfall and its surroundings. A tripod can be helpful for longer exposures to smooth out the water, especially in lower light.
Drone usage may be restricted in natural areas. It's always best to check local regulations and park rules before flying a drone.
Absolutely! The vibrant fall colors surrounding Moss Glen Falls create a spectacular backdrop for photography. Early morning light can be particularly beautiful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring water and snacks, and ensure everyone wears appropriate footwear. The mist from the falls can be refreshing on a warm day, but it also means surfaces can be slick, so supervise children closely. It's a perfect spot for a quick nature break during a Stowe road trip.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Moss Glen Falls
The surrounding gorge and pools add to the waterfall's charm, offering a glimpse into the erosive power of water over time. While the main viewing area is easily reached, adventurous visitors can carefully navigate the stone steps to get closer to the base of the falls, feeling the full force of the cascade. This proximity allows for a truly sensory encounter with nature's grandeur.
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking for a quick, scenic stop, Moss Glen Falls provides a memorable experience. Its beauty is amplified during the fall foliage season, when the vibrant autumn leaves create a stunning contrast with the cascading water and verdant moss.
Navigating the Trail and Terrain
Footwear is crucial for enjoying the trail safely. While some visitors have managed with sneakers, sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended, especially after rain, as the path can become quite muddy and slippery. The area at the very top, closest to the falls, can be particularly challenging due to exposed roots and uneven ground, requiring careful footing.
Despite the minor challenges, the trail's brevity means most visitors can reach the falls and enjoy its splendor without extensive exertion. The reward of standing near the powerful waterfall makes the short trek well worth the effort.
Best Times for Photography
Early morning light is often ideal for capturing the falls. The soft, diffused light can help to reduce harsh shadows and bring out the textures of the moss and rocks. If you're aiming for a silky smooth water effect, a tripod and a neutral density (ND) filter will be your best friends, allowing for longer exposure times.
Be aware that the area at the top of the falls, while offering unique perspectives, can be small and crowded, especially during peak times. Patience may be required to get that perfect shot without other visitors in the frame. Visiting on a weekday or during the shoulder seasons can offer a more tranquil photography experience.
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