The small New England town of Stowe, Vermont, isn’t just a place on the map; it’s a true community, steeped in history that predates its ski slopes by centuries. Nestled in the Green Mountains, Stowe has become a hub for skiing, snowboarding, and New England charm, and one person who can vouch for that is Donna Carpenter. After spending the last thirty years there, helping to build Burton Snowboards with her late husband, Jake Carpenter, raising their children, and becoming a champion of a sport that once struggled for acceptance, Carpenter understands better than most what makes this town so special.
Reflecting on the early days of snowboarding, Carpenter noted the tension between skiers and the new wave of snowboarders taking to the slopes. Back then, the pushback was real, with skiers giving snowboarders the side-eye and acting like they were the rebellious outsiders. The funny part? As Carpenter pointed out, it was all generational—a classic case of one group’s nostalgia being another’s headache. Back then, snowboarding was seen as a young person’s sport, dominated by teenagers whose behavior, to put it mildly, could be a bit much. But, as she humorously noted, a rowdy group of 14- and 15-year-olds could be a handful, no matter what equipment they were on.
Over the years, that group of rebellious teens grew up, and many of them, now with kids and even grandkids, continue to carry the love of snowboarding forward. While other companies tried to compete, Burton had the distinct advantage of being rooted in Vermont, where the rugged, ever-changing weather provided the ideal testing ground for snowboards. Whether dealing with rain, ice, powder, or sub-zero temperatures, the Burton team could refine their products in real conditions that captured the diversity of the Vermont climate. Jake Carpenter put this theory to work with hundreds of prototypes until he found just the right design—those early boards still proudly displayed at Burton’s headquarters.
Even after Burton became a global brand, the Carpenters never lost touch with the community. They remained connected to Stowe, where they were greeted with warmth and respect. Jake’s memory lives on here in a special way—particularly on Lullaby Lane, a serene, winding green trail on the mountain. Though it might seem unusual to name such a mellow run after a legend, it was Jake’s favorite spot on the mountain, a place that reflected his deep connection to the town and the mountain he loved. When the opportunity arose to dedicate a trail in his memory, Donna knew exactly which one was right.
Stowe’s ski season kicks off in November, but things truly get exciting in January and February, when the snow conditions are at their peak. Those looking for fewer crowds and possibly some savings should consider visiting in early December before the holiday rush or in late March, when the snow softens for some spring skiing. Stowe’s dynamic pricing on tickets means there are often deals to be had in these off-peak times. But for those who crave a bit of holiday magic, Stowe goes all out with twinkling lights, New Year’s torch parades, and January’s annual Winter Carnival, which brings everything from snow sculptures to live music to this picturesque mountain town.
Accommodations in Stowe offer options for every taste, but for luxury, The Lodge at Spruce Peak is hard to beat. Located at the base of Spruce Peak, it provides ski-in, ski-out access along with spacious suites, some with full kitchens, and dining options that feature Vermont-inspired dishes. Guests can unwind at the outdoor heated pool, cozy up around fire pits, or work out the day’s kinks at the full-service spa. A new addition in 2024, Outbound Stowe, offers a vintage-modern vibe on nine scenic acres, just a stone’s throw from the slopes. While smaller in scale, it still features essentials like a hot tub for après-ski and has direct access to Stowe’s Recreation Path for year-round enjoyment.
Stowe is equally accommodating for newcomers to skiing and snowboarding, with a well-regarded ski school and a range of programs designed to help all ages and levels feel comfortable on the slopes. From group lessons to private coaching, the mountain offers learning zones that make it easy for beginners to get started. And for those looking to sharpen their skills, Stowe hosts clinics and workshops throughout the season. Whether you’re here for the thrill of the snow or the charm of the town, Stowe provides an experience that combines sport, culture, and community into one unforgettable New England getaway.
