Private Snowshoeing & River Tours with Umiak Outdoor Outfitters in Stowe - Montpelier

Private Snowshoeing & River Tours with Umiak Outdoor Outfitters in Stowe

Montpeliereasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; basic stamina for walking on snow or paddling recommended.

Overview

Discover private snowshoeing, tubing, and serene river tours in Stowe, Vermont with Umiak Outdoor Outfitters. Experience expert guidance and high-quality gear on scenic, seasonal adventures.

Details

Located in the heart of Vermont, Stowe offers unparalleled outdoor adventures suited for all seasons. Umiak Outdoor Outfitters, a locally revered outfitter, specializes in private self-guided and guided experiences such as snowshoeing, snow tubing, and river tours. These adventures provide an authentic way to connect with Vermont’s natural beauty and explore its diverse landscapes. Whether you’re gliding across the snow-covered reservoir or floating peacefully along the Winooski River, Umiak’s expert team ensures each trip is safe, enjoyable, and memorable.

The Winooski River tour lets you experience a tranquil, sunlit paddle with scenic views of Vermont’s rich greenery and wildlife habitats. This river is known for its calm current, clear water, and gentle flow, making it perfect for beginners and families alike. The tours are flexible and ideal for those wanting a self-paced adventure complemented by the support of a knowledgeable outfitter holding your gear and keys.

When winter arrives, Umiak’s snowshoeing and snow tubing excursions transform the landscape into a winter wonderland. Traversing snow-covered trails and frozen reservoirs offers visitors a peaceful yet invigorating way to experience Stowe’s rugged wilderness. Guides like Richard and Josh enrich the experience with safety tips, local insights, and friendly encouragement, elevating even first-time snowshoers’ confidence. The tours include light snacks and optional photos to capture the moment. This combination of nature, winter sport, and expert guidance has made Umiak a standout destination for visitors seeking a unique and personal outdoor adventure.

Umiak is also known for its high-quality gear rental and sales, boasting one of the best selections of boats and winter equipment in New England. This enables adventurers to enjoy top-tier gear, which increases both safety and pleasure during outings. Whether you are keen on exploring the summer river or tubing down snowy hills in winter, Umiak Outdoor Outfitters provides an unforgettable outdoor experience in Stowe, Vermont.

Adventure Tips

Reserve in advance for peak seasons

Popular tours fill up quickly; booking ahead ensures availability, especially for private groups.

Dress in moisture-wicking layers

Layering keeps you comfortable against changing temperatures during snowshoe or river tours.

Bring waterproof footwear

Proper boots protect your feet from wet river conditions and snowy terrain.

Use sun protection even in winter

Snow reflects UV rays strongly; sunscreen and UV-blocking sunglasses are recommended year-round.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • The lesser-known trails around Sterling Forest Preserve
  • Quiet river bends ideal for wildlife spotting on the Winooski

Wildlife

  • White-tailed deer
  • Bald eagles

History

Stowe has a rich history as a logging town that transformed into a famous mountain resort area in the 20th century.

Conservation

Umiak promotes Leave No Trace principles and partners with local groups to protect the purity of the Winooski River and surrounding forests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Mid-morning
Sunset

Best Viewpoints

  • Riverbanks along Winooski River
  • Frozen reservoir outlook
  • Snowy trails near Stowe village

What to Photograph

Snow-covered trees
River reflections
Wildlife like birds and deer

Recommended Gear

Waterproof hiking boots

Essential

Keeps feet dry and warm during wet trails in fall and variable conditions.

fall specific

Snowshoes

Essential

Necessary for navigating deep snow safely during winter excursions.

winter specific

UV-blocking sunglasses

Essential

Protects eyes from glare reflecting off water and snow.

summer specific

Layered clothing

Essential

Allows regulation of body temperature across different seasons and exertion levels.

all specific

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