Stowe, VT – It all started 150 years ago with the Summit House atop Mt. Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak. Guests would venture from the city to escape the hustle and heat of summer.

A lot has changed in Stowe since then, and a lot hasn’t.  Stowe Mountain Resort’s Auto Toll Road opens this Saturday with daily service from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through October 16. The cost per automobile is $26, with up to six passengers.

The 4.5-mile unpaved road begins next to the Inn at the Mountain and climbs to an elevation of 3,850 feet. The road ends at a parking lot next to the Mt. Mansfield Summit Station. The road’s upper terminus presents spectacular hiking options. To the north, the Cliff Trail, Long Trail, and Canyon Trail – all about 1.5 miles long and climbing about 550 feet – offer three routes to Mansfield’s “Chin.” Southerly trail options include the Lakeview Trail, Forehead Bypass, and Long Trail to the Forehead. All hikers should stop into the Green Mountain Club prior to hiking for an orientation. Hiking maps are distributed upon arrival. Bikes and motorcycles are not allowed.

Additional Stowe summer attractions open June 18 including the Alpine Slide, Bungee Trampolines, Climbing Wall, Obstacle Course, Gondola Skyride and more.