Hiking to Sterling Pond, Vermont

Start in Stowe and head north about 11 miles on Route 108, also called Smugglers Notch Road (keep in mind this road closes when the snow arrives). The drive to the trailhead itself is thrilling, winding up the mountain through the trees, narrowing in places to twist around large boulders. Go slow and beware of oncoming traffic that might be just around the bend.

At the top of the mountain park on either side of the road in the parking area and find the trailhead on the right. Start up the rock stairs, which quickly turn into a rugged trail full of rocks and roots, leading steeply up the mountain and through the woods for a little over a mile. Keep in mind this trail can become quite wet and slippery during rainy times, and icy in the colder months. At the top of this trail you will come to a T, where it intersects with a wide trail. Go left and downhill for a minute or two to find the pond at 3000' elevation.

Stay here and take in the view, or wander along the trail to your left up a small wooden ladder, to explore a 1.4 mile loop around the pond. Towards the far side of the pond, on the left, you will see the top of a ski lift on Spruce Peak only a short walk away. If you brought a headlamp and aren't afraid of making your steep decent in the dark, stick around for sunset here. If not, continue on the loop that heads back into the trees. Find your own private spot, eat a snack, and consider fishing for some trout.

Keep in mind this trail can be quite popular during foliage season in the fall, and also on summer weekends. However you can often get it all to yourself if you go on a week day, especially during the off season. Early mornings and evenings are far less popular as well.