Description

Pinnacle Meadows is the upper trailhead for Stowe Pinnacle.

The hike from here is shorter, but a bit less exciting than the hike from the lower trailhead.

Whereas that one is a narrow footpath the whole way, this one starts on a dirt road (closed to cars). It doesn't stay that way for too long, however, and it doesn't skip the exciting final climb to the top of the Pinnacle.

After a gradual ascent through the forest on the dirt road, you'll come to a grassy hillside field.

From there a narrow trail continues into the forest and crosses boardwalks over muddy sections.

It soon becomes much becomes steeper on the upper slopes of the mountain. Soon you'll come to the junction with [Stowe Pinnacle Trail](https://fatmap.com/routeid/1344208/stowe-pinnacle-trail) and join it.

This steep, winding path has some stairs and rock scrambling, but nothing too difficult.

You'll find incredible views once you reach the bald granite summit, overlooking Stowe and the Green Mountains all around. Note: Even though this trail starts out easy, the final stretch to reach the Pinnacle is strenuous, and requires some comfort with rock scrambling.

It may not be suitable for small children, and the risks become greater in wet or cold weather. Sources: https://gostowe.com/activity/hiking/ https://fpr.vermont.gov/putnam-cc-state-forest https://www.summitpost.org/stowe-pinnacle-trail/162722