One of the best known ski resorts in the world, Stowe is also one of the most picturesque. The town's image is centered on its classic New England white church steeple but the town stretches along the roadside up to Mount Mansfield, with one classic building after another along the way. Stowe is arguably the largest genuine ski resort town in the East. The town's 90 plus shops and 60 plus restaurants give visitors a host of options.The resort encompasses two mountains -- the famous Mount Mansfield and Spruce Peak, which backs onto Smugglers' terrain. Most visitors take the ski bus from town or park at the base, as slopeside lodging is limited. The 2,360 foot vertical is one of New England's most impressive, with experts enjoying the 'Front Four' double black diamond descents. The toughest run is generally agreed to be Goat. Most of the terrain suits intermediates who can enjoy wide open cruising runs on Spruce Peak and more wooded runs on the Mansfield side.