Photo: Deepak Krishna
Photo: Brennan Vining
Photo: Amy Tucker
Moss Glen Falls
★4.8(280 reviews)FreeAdventure
🕑 45 minutes to 1.5 hours👶 Best for ages 2-12. Toddlers can handle the short, manageable trail with assistance, while elementary-aged kids will love exploring the rocks and getting close to the powerful falls. The easy terrain makes it accessible even for families with babies in carriers.🧡 Saved by 14 families
About
Moss Glen Falls offers one of the most rewarding yet easy waterfall hikes in Vermont, making it perfect for families with little ones. The short trail leads to a spectacular 125-foot cascading waterfall that will leave kids (and parents!) in awe, without requiring hours of hiking or advanced skills. It's an ideal way to introduce children to the beauty of hiking and nature exploration.
Highlights
- ✓Spectacular 125-foot cascading waterfall that's truly impressive yet easy to reach
- ✓Cool mist from the falls on hot summer days
- ✓Relatively flat, short trail perfect for beginning hikers
- ✓Opportunities for nature photography and wildlife spotting
- ✓Small pools and streams along the path where kids can explore safely
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early morning (before 9am) on weekends to snag parking at the small roadside lot,it fills up quickly during peak season
- 2.Bring a change of clothes for kids who can't resist playing in the small pools at the base of the falls
- 3.Wear sturdy shoes with good grip as rocks near the waterfall can be slippery from mist and spray
- 4.Pack bug spray for summer visits, as mosquitoes can be present in the shaded forest areas
- 5.The trail is roughly 0.3 miles each way, taking most families 15-20 minutes to reach the falls
Best Time to Visit
Visit in late spring (May-June) when snowmelt makes the falls most dramatic, or early fall (September-October) for gorgeous foliage and fewer crowds. Weekday mornings offer the most peaceful experience with easier parking.
What to Know
The falls are completely free to visit with roadside parking along Moss Glen Falls Road (parking is limited to about 6-8 cars). There are no facilities, so plan bathroom breaks before arriving, and the trail is not stroller-accessible due to rocks and roots.
Seasonal Notes
Best visited May through October when trails are clear and accessible. Winter visits are possible but require microspikes or snowshoes and are not recommended with young children. Spring runoff (late April-May) creates the most powerful waterfall display. The access road may not be maintained in deep winter.
Nearby Eats
Head to The Bench (5 minutes away) for wood-fired pizza and a casual family atmosphere, or stop at Piecasso Pizzeria & Lounge in Stowe village for excellent pizza and pasta that kids love.
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