recreation & conservation
When we purchased Strawberry Hill Farm in 2016, one of our primary intentions was to protect the almost 200 acres of farmland and forest that comprises the property. With miles of mountain biking trails, acres of deeryard and native forest, tall stands of planted red pine, and some of the flattest and best drained hayfields in Lamoille County, we knew this property was unique and well-worth conserving in perpetuity. We hold a conservation easement with the Stowe Land Trust on a portion of the property, ensuring that these lands remain protected and productive for the foreseeable future. We also have enrolled the vast majority of our land in Vermont’s current use program, which commits us to an active forest and farm management plan while keeping the land productive. We work actively with the Stowe Trails Partnership, not only maintaining our existing trails, but also building new trails, all of which are open to the general public for mountain biking, horseback riding, and walking.
In the Rock Garden…
trails
Stowe is quickly becoming a world-class mountain biking destination. The trails at SHF connect directly to the extensive Cady Hill network of trails in our town center, and provide important access to the high school and Trapp’s /Adams Camp trails beyond. We are 100% committed to keeping these trails open for MTB, horses, and walkers; public access is a cornerstone of what we do at SHF.
Ladyslippers in the springtime forest…
land
The forest surrounding SHF is an important habitat right in the center of Stowe. Planted red pine dominates the entrance to the property, and provides a vibrant ecosystem for all sorts of creatures and plants, including the lady slippers pictured above. Further into the forest, native species such as maple, birch, and hemlock dominate, providing acres of habitat for large populations of white-tailed deer, wild turkey, red and gray fox, and many species of songbird.
Mt. Mansfield in autumn
greater stowe
With a year-round population just under 5000, but the largest total acreage of any town in Vermont, Stowe is a vibrant, gorgeous place in all seasons. In the winter months, Stowe Mountain Resort offers world-class Alpine skiing only 15 minutes from SHF. Our town’s vast network of trails also offer endless Nordic skiing, fat biking, and snowshoeing options. And for some pampering, Stowe has three full service spas. In summer, the area trails beckon for all sorts of riding and hiking, and our many rivers and streams offer myriad opportunities for a quick, bracing dip. To round out autumn and spring, Vermont’s most notable claims to fame are probably our picture perfect fall foliage and springtime’s sweet tradition of maple sugaring.
Springtime heifers…
farmland
Strawberry Hill Farm sits on a large, flat esker, smack dab in the heart of Stowe. This unique geography lends our fields an uncommon flatness and incredibly well-drained soils. We take advantage of these conditions to grow a few cuts of hay in the summer, and we have recently added a new cut flower farm as well. More details about our farming activities can be found under the farm tab. As we are farmers ourselves, running Sage Farm Goat Dairy just a few miles away, it is of utmost importance to us that the farmland at Strawberry Hill be maintained and kept productive for the greater good of our community.