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Sterling Forest Trails

An extensive trail system situated on a 2,150 acre conservation area.
Trail Activity
Hiking Mountain biking Snowshoeing Ungroomed cross-country skiing
Length
16.40 miles, Network
Difficulty
Moderate, Advanced
Town
Stowe (VT)
Surface
Packed Earth/Dirt, Snow, Ungroomed
Pets
Permitted on leash
Fees
No

Description

Sterling Forest features beautiful hiking trails mostly on historical roads and fun intermediate/advanced mountain bike loops. The lower elevations were formerly the now abandoned town of Sterling, and there are 10 historical site markers identifying former homesteads, farms, a schoolhouse, and a sawmill. The elevation is quite high, forested primarily with birch, providing excellent back-country skiing. From the Sterling Gorge Road parking area you can access an interpretive trail (managed by the Anderson family) which descends into the gorge.

To discover what trail activities are permitted on different sections of trail, use the legend in the upper right corner of the map. Here, under the "Trails" tab, you can select the trail activities you are interested in.

Please note: The Ruschp Sterling Ridge Trail (accessible from the Upper Gorge Loop and the Marston Trails) is open for winter use only.

Trail Manager

Visit Town of Stowe or Stowe Mountain Bike Club online for more information or contact:

Stowe Trails Partnership

Stowe Trails Partnership
PO Box 3722
Stowe, VT 05672
info@stowetrails.org
View website

Town of Stowe

Town of Stowe
Stowe, VT 05672
Phone: (802) 253-2705
mfrazee@stowevt.gov
View website

Trail Tips

Leave What You Find
Avoid the introduction or transport of non-native species. Clean, drain, and dry water equipment when moving between water bodies.
Legend
Hide All

Trailhead Information

Follow Sterling Valley Road from Stagecoach Road (between Stowe and Morrisville) to one of three parking lots - at the Split Rock Trailhead; at the end of Sterling Valley Road, or on Sterling Gorge Road (a left turn just before the end of Sterling Valley Road).

Click on a parking icon to get custom directions
Please Log In or Create Account to add comments.
johnwsherwood89@yahoo.com
July 27, 2020
We took a hike at Sterling Forest Historical site yesterday part of Stowe Trails Partnership and Stowe Land Trust. Saw what remained of houses built in the 1800’s of this settlement which all but ended by 1950. Nice signage and hike.
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