Bingham Falls – Stowe, VT
Bingham Falls is one of the most rewarding short hikes in the Stowe area — a gorgeous gorge with a multi-tiered waterfall tucked into the woods just minutes from the village. Here’s everything you need to know.
Getting There
The trailhead is located on the Mountain Road (Route 108), about 5.5 miles from the Stowe village center, on the left side heading toward Smugglers’ Notch. Look for a small pull-off parking area on the side of the road — it’s easy to miss. GPS coordinates: 44.5185° N, 72.7423° W.
Parking is very limited (roughly 6–8 cars), so arriving early is essential, especially on weekends and in peak foliage season.
The Hike
- Distance: ~0.5 miles round trip
- Elevation gain: Minimal (~50 ft)
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate — short but involves some scrambling over roots and rocks near the falls
- Trail surface: Dirt path through mixed forest, with some uneven terrain close to the gorge
The trail descends gently through the woods and follows the West Branch of the Little River, leading you to the top of the falls. From there you can scramble down into the gorge to reach the base.
The Falls
Bingham Falls drops around 40 feet into a carved-out gorge with deep green pools. It isn’t the largest waterfall out there, but it’s a beautiful view for such a short hike.
Best Times to Visit
| Season | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Spring (Apr–May) | Peak water flow — powerful and dramatic, but trails can be muddy |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Popular swimming spot; arrive before 9am to beat crowds |
| Fall (Sep–Oct) | Stunning foliage surrounds the gorge; busiest season overall |
| Winter | Accessible but icy — microspikes strongly recommended |
Swimming
The pools at the base are a beloved summer swimming hole. The water is cold year-round (fed by snowmelt and mountain springs), refreshing on a hot day. Use caution — the rocks are slippery, the water is deeper than it looks, and there are no lifeguards.
Tips & Etiquette
- Go early. The parking area fills up fast, especially July–October. Aim to arrive by 8–9am on weekends.
- Wear sturdy footwear. Trail runners or hiking shoes are much better than sandals, especially near the gorge edges.
- Stay on trail. The gorge edges are eroded and unstable — don’t venture too close to the rim.
- Pack out everything. This is an informal, unmanaged trail — leave no trace.
- No dogs on some sections — check current Vermont state guidance, as trail rules can vary.
- Cell service is spotty on Mountain Road heading toward Smugglers’ Notch.
Nearby
While you’re in the area, pair it with:
- Moss Glen Falls (~15 min drive) — another beautiful waterfall with an easy trail
- Smugglers’ Notch State Park — dramatic cliffs just a few miles up Route 108
- Stowe Village — great cafes, breweries, and restaurants for after the hike
Bingham Falls is short enough to do in under an hour, but beautiful enough to linger for the morning. I