It reportedly took less than 15 minutes for Stowe Mountain Resort to sell out of its new and controversial season parking passes Tuesday, a $450 commitment that does not even assure pass holders a spot on any particular day this coming winter at the popular Vermont resort.
Stowe’s parent company, Vail Resorts, had announced the intention last spring to try and curb Mountain Road traffic by charging for parking on weekends and holidays during the 2022-23 season, hoping to encourage visitors to use carpooling and public transportation. Paid parking, a $30 flat rate per vehicle, will be implemented Friday through Sunday and holidays at all lots, except at the cross-country center and Toll House area lots, which will remain free seven days a week. Carpooling vehicles carrying four or more passengers will also still be allowed to park for free.
Parking will remain free at all lots Monday through Thursday during non-holiday periods, and at all lots after 2 p.m. Complimentary shuttle service will be available to transport guests from the Nordic area to the Alpine resort.
The season parking pass does not guarantee parking, but only allows pass holders a spot on a first-come, first-serve basis.