Moss Glen Falls is a 125-foot tiered waterfall located in the Moss Glen Falls Natural Area, a small Vermont Agency of Natural Resources property along Randolph Road north of Stowe village in northern Vermont. The falls cascade over a series of moss-covered ledges into a deeply carved pool in a narrow wooded gorge, creating a scene of exceptional natural beauty that rewards the short half-mile round-trip walk from the trailhead parking area. This Stowe-area waterfall should not be confused with the similarly named Moss Glen Falls in Granville — also a beautiful waterfall in a separate part of Vermont. The approach trail passes through northern hardwood forest on a natural surface path with some root and rock sections. At the base of the falls, smooth ledge shelves provide close-proximity seating near the cascade. Water volume fluctuates significantly through the year: spring snowmelt in April and May produces the highest and most dramatic flow, while late summer can reduce the falls considerably. January and February bring a spectacular transformation as the falls freeze partially or entirely, creating hanging ice formations and frozen spray columns that make the gorge a destination for winter landscape photography. The site is entirely free to visit and is managed as an undeveloped natural area without facilities other than a small parking pullout at the trailhead. The falls are one of the most accessible waterfalls in the Stowe area and make an excellent short side trip for visitors based in Stowe village. A typical visit including the walk in and out takes 1–2 hours.
Good to know
- Hours
- Open daily, dawn to dusk
- Best time
- Spring snowmelt (April–May) for maximum flow; January for ice formations
Location
Moss Glen Falls Natural Area, Randolph Rd, Stowe, VT 05672
44.4811, -72.6420 View on map
Highlights
- 125-foot tiered waterfall cascading over moss-covered ledges into a carved rock pool in a wooded gorge
- Short 0.4-mile walk from the trailhead provides access to one of the most photogenic waterfalls in the Stowe area
- Winter ice formations transform the falls into hanging ice curtains and frozen spray columns — a popular winter photography destination
- Snowmelt flow in April and May produces the highest water volumes and most dramatic cascade of the year
- Entirely free to visit, with the natural gorge providing a quiet retreat five miles from Stowe village
Tips for visiting
- The trailhead parking pullout on Randolph Road is small — arrive early in summer and fall to secure a spot before it fills
- Wear waterproof footwear for the approach — the trail base near the falls is frequently wet and the ledge rocks are slippery
- April and May snowmelt visits yield the highest water volume; January and February bring spectacular ice formations
- A polarizing filter significantly improves waterfall photography by reducing glare on the wet rocks and moss
- Combine with a Stowe village visit or the Stowe Recreation Path for a full morning in the area
When to visit
April and May for peak snowmelt flow and the most dramatic water volume. January and February for partial or full ice formations at the cascade. October brings foliage color to the surrounding forest — one of the most popular visit seasons.
Accessibility
The trail to Moss Glen Falls involves a natural surface path with root and rock sections that are not suitable for wheelchairs or mobility devices. The trailhead parking area is a small unpaved pullout. The falls cannot be safely viewed from a distance accessible to mobility-impaired visitors.
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Frequently asked questions
How long is the hike to Moss Glen Falls in Stowe?
The trail to the falls is approximately 0.4 miles one way on a natural surface path, taking 10–15 minutes each way. The full visit including time at the falls takes 1–2 hours.
Is Moss Glen Falls accessible for families with young children?
Yes — the trail is short and well-maintained, suitable for children aged 5 and up with adult supervision. The ledge area at the base of the falls requires care as the rocks are slippery when wet.
Is photography allowed at Moss Glen Falls?
Yes — photography is unrestricted in this public natural area. The falls are one of the most photographed natural features in the Stowe area, particularly during spring high water and winter freeze conditions.