Stowe Gondola SkyRide - Image 1
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Stowe Gondola SkyRide

4.5
·682 reviews·Stowe, United States

Ascend Vermont's highest peak via the Stowe Gondola SkyRide for breathtaking panoramic views, especially stunning during fall foliage season.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, shorter waits

CrowdLow
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Stowe Gondola SkyRide - Image 1

Stowe Gondola SkyRide

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, shorter waits

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ascend Vermont's highest peak via the Stowe Gondola SkyRide for breathtaking panoramic views, especially stunning during fall foliage season.

4.5
(682 reviews)

"The views were spectacular. All staff were incredibly friendly and helpful."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Tickets in Advance

Secure your spot and potentially skip lines by purchasing tickets online before your visit. :admission_tickets:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll want sturdy footwear for exploring the summit area and any optional short hikes. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Mountain Views

Panoramic Mountain Views

Summit of Mount Mansfield

Soar to Vermont's highest peak for unparalleled vistas of colorful autumn landscapes.

TikTok
Mount Mansfield Summit

Mount Mansfield Summit

Top of the Gondola Ride

Explore the summit area with photo opportunities, a gift shop, and dining options.

Reddit
Scenic Gondola Ride

Scenic Gondola Ride

Ascending Mount Mansfield

Enjoy a comfortable 15-minute ride up the mountain, perfect for all ages and abilities.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Peak Foliage

Vermont's fall foliage is legendary, but timing is crucial. Aim for late September to early October for the most vibrant colors. Be prepared for crowds during peak season; booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to avoid long waits. TikTok

Gondola Tickets & Logistics

While the Stowe Gondola SkyRide offers breathtaking views, ticket prices can be steep. Some visitors report long wait times and traffic issues, especially during peak periods. Consider visiting on a weekday or during off-peak hours if possible. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, shorter waits
Crowd
Low
When
Late September - Early October
Why
Peak fall foliage colors
Crowd
High
When
Wednesday afternoons
Why
Less busy than weekends
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

FALL IN VERMONT ITINERARY 🍁👇 ⛪️ Downtown Stowe @gostowe Enjoy the architectural beauty, history, quaint shops, and cozy cafes of this iconic Northeastern mountain town. 🚠 Stowe Gondola SkyRide @stowemt Soar to the top of Vermont’s highest peak- Mount Mansfield 🐂 von Trapp Family Lodge Highland Cow Tour @trappfamilylodge Join farmers on a hike to meet their adorable herd of Scottish Highlander c...
@georgeandcris
170.1K likes • 1.7M views

🎯 Book Tickets in Advance

Secure your spot and potentially skip lines by purchasing tickets online before your visit. Reddit :admission_tickets:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll want sturdy footwear for exploring the summit area and any optional short hikes. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Peak views without the hike! 🍁 #fallfoliage #fallinnewengland #vermontfall #stowevermont #fallroadtrip
@runfromroutine
35.3K likes • 466.6K views
STEAL OUR STOWE, VERMONT ITINERARY 🍁👇 🚡Stowe Gondola SkyRide Soar to the top of Vermont’s highest peak- Mount Mansfield ⛪️Stowe Downtown Enjoy the architectural beauty, history, quaint shops, and cozy cafes of this iconic Northeastern mountain town. 🍁Smugglers Notch State Park The famous Smuggler’s Notch is a narrow pass through the Green Mountains. Lined by 1,000ft cliffs, this winding road inclu...
@georgeandcris
19.8K likes • 382.4K views

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera or phone to document the stunning fall foliage and panoramic scenery. TikTok :iphone:

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Factor in potential traffic and wait times, especially during peak season. Reddit

Vermont in the fall is so magical !!! ✨🍂🧃🍁🎃 my recommendations 👇🏼 VERMONT Stowe: - gondola ride at stowe (stowe mtn resort) - cold hollow cider mill 🍎 - drive along smugglers notch - visit a maple syrup farm 🍁 - stop by the original Ben & Jerry’s Woodstock: - have breakfast at mon vert cafe - grab ice cream at woodstock scoops 🍦 - stroll around downtown - stop by yankee bookstore - visit Woo...
@skylarmbeck
19.2K likes • 176.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tickets in Advance

Secure your spot and potentially skip lines by purchasing tickets online before your visit. Reddit :admission_tickets:

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll want sturdy footwear for exploring the summit area and any optional short hikes. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the Views

Bring your camera or phone to document the stunning fall foliage and panoramic scenery. TikTok :iphone:

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Factor in potential traffic and wait times, especially during peak season. Reddit

🐶 Pet-Friendly Summit

Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the gondola and at the summit, making it a great outing for furry friends. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(682 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the spectacular views from the Stowe Gondola SkyRide, especially during peak fall foliage season. The friendly and accommodating staff enhance the experience for all ages. However, some find the ticket prices high and have encountered significant traffic and logistical issues during busy periods.

"Love love love this place!! We tried to time it right with peak fall season. The ticket prices are a bit high ($42/person). But the views were spectacular. All staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. We got our tickets and hopped on a gondola with no wait on a Wednesday afternoon despite there being a lot of people there. The ride took about 15 to get to the top (30 round trip). We stayed up there to enjoy the views and take pictures. They had a restaurant but we did not go. There were restrooms at the top as well that were pretty clean. So glad we made this part of our trip!"

Rachel Corvington

"Great item on your todo list when visiting Stowe! It’s about a fifteen minute ride up to the top. Price is a little pricey in my opinion at about $45 pp but a great experience. You can have waffles at a stand or eat at the Cliffside restaurant."

Marty Premer

"Okay, state at the outset, it's not cheap. That said, it's wonderful in every other way. Staff was outstanding. Helped us in and out of cars at both ends and provided information about how best to enjoy the time near the summit. Wonderful views and photo ops and a gift shop, waffle house, and seating near the top. Didn't climb to the summit, but met hikers who said it took about 40 additional minutes one way and involved some clambering, so don't do the additional hike unless you have hiking shoes, poles, water, and rain/weather gear. And plan your day so you have enough time to hike and get the gondola back down. Really enjoyed the experience."

Caitlin Augusta

What People Like

Spectacular mountain views
Friendly and helpful staff
Great for all ages

What People Dislike

High ticket prices
Traffic and long waits

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Stowe Gondola SkyRide is located at Stowe Mountain Resort, 7416 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672. It's accessible by car, and parking is available on-site. TikTok+1

Yes, parking is available at Stowe Mountain Resort. However, be aware that traffic and parking can become congested during peak fall foliage season. Reddit

While direct public transport to the gondola itself might be limited, you can explore local shuttle services or ride-sharing options within Stowe to reach the resort. TikTok

Visiting on a weekday, especially in the morning, can help you avoid the worst of the traffic. Arriving early is key. Reddit

Yes, the gondola is generally accessible, and staff are very accommodating, even stopping the gondola for easier boarding and disembarking for elderly guests or those with mobility challenges. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but expect them to be around $42-$45 per person. It's advisable to check the official Stowe Mountain Resort website for the most current pricing. Reddit

Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is highly recommended to save time and potentially secure your spot, especially during peak season. Reddit

While specific coupons are not always readily available, keep an eye on the resort's website or local tourism sites for potential package deals or seasonal offers. TikTok

Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the Stowe Mountain Resort's official website for the most up-to-date operating schedule, especially during fall foliage season. TikTok

In some cases, customer service may allow you to use your ticket on the correct date if you contact them promptly. It's always best to call the resort directly to inquire about your specific situation. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Views

The summit of Mount Mansfield offers breathtaking panoramic views, especially during fall foliage season. The gondola ride itself also provides excellent photo opportunities. TikTok+1

Morning light can be beautiful for photography, offering clear skies and softer light. Late afternoon can also provide stunning golden hour views. TikTok

Yes, you can hike to the true summit from the gondola's upper station. However, this requires additional time (about 40 minutes one way) and appropriate hiking gear. Reddit

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for most visitors. If you plan on hiking to the summit, consider a camera with good low-light performance and a wide-angle lens. Reddit

The views from the gondola itself and the summit are the main attractions. The surrounding mountain landscape during fall is the iconic backdrop. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a restaurant at the Cliffside and a waffle shack at the summit, offering various dining options for visitors. Reddit

The Cliffside restaurant typically offers a sit-down dining experience with mountain views. The waffle shack provides quicker, casual options. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's generally acceptable to bring snacks and water, especially if you plan on hiking. However, purchasing from the on-site vendors supports the resort. Reddit

There are usually concessions and cafes at the base of the gondola where you can grab coffee or snacks before your ascent. TikTok

Options may vary. It's best to check the menu at the Cliffside restaurant or inquire at the waffle shack for current offerings. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Stowe Gondola SkyRide is a fantastic outing for families. The ride itself is exciting for children, and the summit offers space to explore and take in the views. Staff are known to be very accommodating, making the experience smoother for families with young children. Reddit Consider packing snacks and drinks, though there are food options available at the top. Reddit

For a more complete family adventure, combine the gondola ride with a visit to nearby attractions like Smugglers' Notch State Park or a local cider mill. TikTok+1 This ensures a full day of fun and memorable experiences for everyone.

💰 Budget Travelers

While the Stowe Gondola SkyRide can be a splurge, there are ways to make it more budget-friendly. Visiting on a weekday can sometimes mean slightly lower crowds and potentially less pressure on services. Reddit Look for any potential package deals or discounts that might be offered through local tourism boards or the resort's website. TikTok

To maximize value, consider packing your own snacks and water to avoid purchasing them at the summit. Reddit If you're on a tight budget, you might opt for the gondola ride as a single splurge activity and focus on free or low-cost activities in the surrounding Stowe area, such as scenic drives or exploring the charming downtown. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Stowe Gondola SkyRide offers incredible opportunities, especially during the fall foliage season. TikTok+1 The panoramic views from Mount Mansfield are spectacular, providing a vast canvas of colors. TikTok Aim for morning or late afternoon for the best light. TikTok

While the gondola ride itself is scenic, don't miss the chance to explore the summit area for unique perspectives. If you're adventurous, consider the hike to the true summit for even more dramatic shots, but be sure to bring appropriate gear. Reddit A wide-angle lens can be beneficial for capturing the expansive landscapes. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Experiencing Fall Foliage in Stowe

Stowe, Vermont, is renowned as the 'Color Capital of Fall,' and the Stowe Gondola SkyRide offers a prime vantage point to witness this spectacular natural phenomenon. TikTok The peak foliage season typically runs from late September into early October, transforming the mountainsides into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows. TikTok Many visitors flock to Stowe specifically for this event, making it a popular destination. TikTok

While the gondola ride itself provides stunning views, consider exploring other nearby attractions for a comprehensive fall foliage experience. Smugglers' Notch State Park offers a scenic drive through a narrow mountain pass lined with colorful trees. TikTok Visiting a local maple syrup farm can also add a sweet touch to your autumn adventure. TikTok

It's important to note that the intensity of the foliage can vary year to year. Some years may experience less vibrant colors due to weather conditions. TikTok However, even in less-than-ideal years, the mountain scenery and the charm of Stowe make for a memorable trip. TikTok

Navigating Crowds and Logistics

The popularity of the Stowe Gondola SkyRide, especially during peak fall foliage season, can lead to significant crowds and logistical challenges. Visitors have reported long wait times for both the gondola and in traffic, with some experiences lasting up to four hours. Reddit This has led to frustration for some, with comparisons made to exiting large concert venues. Reddit

To mitigate these issues, several strategies are recommended. Purchasing tickets in advance is crucial to streamline the entry process. Reddit Visiting on a weekday, particularly in the morning, can significantly reduce wait times compared to weekends. Reddit Being prepared for potential traffic delays and allowing ample time for your visit is also essential. Reddit

Some visitors have suggested that the resort could improve its logistics by better managing parking, limiting ticket sales to control volume, and providing clearer signage. Reddit While the experience itself is often praised, the operational aspects can detract from the overall enjoyment for some. Reddit

Accessibility and Family-Friendliness

The Stowe Gondola SkyRide is a popular attraction for visitors of all ages, including families and seniors. The gondola cars are designed to be accessible, and the staff are known for their exceptional helpfulness and accommodation. Reddit They have been observed stopping the gondola to assist elderly guests and those with mobility issues, ensuring a comfortable boarding and disembarking experience. Reddit

At the summit, there are plenty of seating options available in both sunny and shaded areas, making it a pleasant place to relax and enjoy the views. Reddit The presence of a gift shop, a waffle shack, and a sit-down restaurant at the top caters to various needs and preferences, ensuring that everyone can find something to enjoy. Reddit

For those with furry companions, the Stowe Gondola SkyRide is also a pet-friendly option. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the gondola and at the summit, allowing the whole family, including pets, to share in the experience. Reddit

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