Photo: von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort
Photo: von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort
Photo: Nate Alan
von Trapp Family Lodge & Resort
★4.6(3,195 reviews)$$$Adventure
🕑 Half-day to full-day (or multi-day stay)👶 Best for ages 5 and up. Younger children enjoy gentle hiking trails, chairlift rides, and exploring the grounds, while older kids and teens can tackle more challenging cross-country ski trails, longer hikes, and participate in seasonal outdoor activities that require more stamina.🧡 Saved by 250+ families
About
Nestled in the Green Mountains, the legendary von Trapp Family Lodge offers families an authentic Austrian alpine experience with year-round outdoor adventures. Kids will love the scenic chairlift rides in summer, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails in winter, plus special family events that bring the Sound of Music legacy to life in a stunning mountain setting.
Highlights
- ✓Scenic chairlift rides offering panoramic mountain views
- ✓Over 60 kilometers of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails in winter
- ✓Family-friendly hiking trails through meadows and forests
- ✓Austrian bakery with authentic treats kids love
- ✓Special family events and Sound of Music heritage experiences
Pro Tips
- 1.Book the scenic chairlift ride early in your visit to get oriented with the property's layout and stunning mountain views
- 2.Visit the on-site bakery for authentic Austrian pastries that kids love - it's a great mid-adventure snack stop
- 3.Rent cross-country ski equipment on-site rather than bringing your own; staff can properly fit kids and recommend beginner-friendly trails
- 4.Stay for sunset when day visitors have left - the property becomes magical and kids can run freely on the meadows
- 5.Download a trail map from their website before arriving so you can plan age-appropriate routes for your family
Best Time to Visit
Visit mid-week during shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) for fewer crowds and mild weather perfect for hiking. Winter weekdays offer excellent cross-country skiing without weekend crowds, while summer mornings provide cooler temperatures for chairlift rides and trail exploration.
What to Know
This is a full-service resort with multiple on-site dining options including kid-friendly restaurants and a bakery, plus lodging if you want to extend your visit. Day passes are available for activities like chairlift rides and trail access, with rental equipment available on-site for winter sports.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with activities changing by season. Winter (December-March) features cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Summer and fall offer hiking, chairlift rides, and outdoor concerts. Special holiday events during Christmas season celebrate Austrian traditions with family-friendly festivities.
Nearby Eats
Head to McCarthy's Restaurant in downtown Stowe (10 minutes away) for casual family dining with a kids' menu, or visit The Bench for wood-fired pizza that appeals to all ages.
More Activities Near Stowe
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Stowe Mountain Resort
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Stowe Mountain Resort transforms from a winter wonderland into a year-round adventure playground perfect for active families. Beyond skiing, kids can experience thrilling rides on the alpine slide and mountain coaster, take scenic chairlift rides to enjoy panoramic mountain views, and explore family-friendly hiking trails that showcase Vermont's natural beauty.
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Stowe Recreation Path
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The Stowe Recreation Path is a beautiful five-mile paved trail that winds through some of Vermont's most stunning scenery, making it perfect for families who want a safe, car-free outdoor adventure. With multiple access points throughout town, you can customize your journey to match your family's energy level, whether that's a quick mile-long stroll or the full scenic route with mountain views, crossing charming bridges over the West Branch River.
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Stowe Free Library
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Stowe Free Library is a welcoming community hub that offers much more than books for families visiting Vermont's scenic mountain town. With a dedicated children's section, regular story hours, and engaging programs designed for young learners, this beautiful library provides a perfect rainy-day activity or quiet retreat between outdoor adventures in Stowe.
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Picnic Area at Lake Mansfield
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Lake Mansfield's picnic area offers families a peaceful lakeside retreat surrounded by Vermont's stunning natural beauty. With designated grills for cookouts, open spaces for kids to run and play, and gorgeous water views, it's an ideal spot for a laid-back family day in the mountains. Pack your picnic basket and enjoy quality time together while the kids explore the natural surroundings.