Stowe Boarding

The Best Snowboarding in North America

Riding the bumps in Stowe (Stowe)

Freeriders

Upper Lord, Lower Haystack, and Hayride all have good rolls and banks on either side. The Three Amigos Glades are well spaced, allowing a fast run through the trees. From the top of the Gondolier trail on Mount Mansfield, explore the streambed to skier's right where there are plenty of natural obstacles. The legendary front four runs of Goat, Starr, National and Liftline are also attention grabbers for freeriders. The top sections can lose their cover and the narrow, icy entrance may cause a few to balk. Make it through and you are treated to fast, demanding run-outs.

Freestylers

Stowe's newest Terrain Park opened on January 11, 2001. Besides being the best half-pipe they have ever had (the CBMR halfpipe meets all USSA competitive and training specifications), the Terrain Park offers three great tabletops, excellent landings, and huge air. Located just off the Teocalli Lift, this year's park promises a ton of fun for skiers and snowboarders alike.

Carving

Wide cruisers from the top of the gondola back to the base allow plenty of room to maneuver, though you'll need to have your slalom skills down pat when it gets crowded. Centerline, Middle Lord, and Standard have a consistent pitch. After a couple of orientation runs, you'll be treating it like a luge. Try the warm-up runs on Spruce for a change of scenery.

The Nitty Gritty

Elevation:

Summit: 4,393 ft.

Vertical drop: 2,360 ft.

Base: 2,360 ft.

Snowfall:

Annual average: 260 inches

Snowmaking: 75 percent

Area:

Total Area: 1,160 acres

Advanced: 25 percent

Intermediate: 59 percent