Conquer the Breathtaking 4.5 mile Mt Mansfield Toll Road, VT

We drove up Mt Mansfield Toll Road on October 2nd 2024 to see its stunning scenery and hike Mt Mansfield trail. Mt Mansfield Toll Road is a 4.5-mile paved and gravel route. It provides a unique opportunity to ascend to the summit while immersing its visitors in the breathtaking beauty of autumn in Vermont.

Mt Mansfield VT Toll Road — ***Toll Road***

The journey began at the base of the Toll Road, located just off Route 108 in Stowe, VT. As we ascended, the views became increasingly spectacular, with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows stretching across the landscape. The road winds its way through mixed hardwood forests and alpine terrain, offering several pull-off points. We stopped to take in the scenery and snap photographs.
Early pull-offs offer sweeping views of Stowe Village nestled in the valley below, while higher elevations showcase panoramic vistas of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains in the distance.

***Stowe village as seen from a pull out***

Upon reaching the parking area near the summit, we made our way to the ridgeline trailhead. This trail leads to the summit of Mt. Mansfield. The Long Trail, one of Vermont’s most famous hiking routes, traverses the ridge and offers an unparalleled hiking experience. Walking along the rocky ridgeline, one encounters unique alpine plants and stunning views that stretch as far as Canada on clear days. Unfortunately for us, cloud and rain obscured the expansive views. The trail is moderately challenging but rewards hikers with a sense of accomplishment with its awe-inspiring scenery. It was windy and cold on top. I hiked a section of the Long Trail then turned around as it got colder than when I started and had started to get darker the closer I got to the summit.

Tips for visiting Mt Mansfield Toll Road

The Toll Road operates seasonally and has an entrance fee ($35 when we visited in October 2024). Check for operating hours and weather conditions before you go.
Drive Carefully: The road is steep and winding, so take your time and stay alert.
Dress in Layers: The summit is often cooler than the base, so bring warm clothing.
Bring a Camera: The views are spectacular, and you’ll want to capture the memories.
Respect the Environment: Stick to designated trails and carry out all trash to help preserve the area’s natural beauty.

Reference AllTrails Toll Road Start, The Nose to The Chin via Long Trail, Sunset Ridge and Long Trail