Hi again! I have been on both and I would definitely say one is not better than the other. Rather, they are different. I don't know how many folks they are letting in the lifts this year as compared to last year, but the tram holds A LOT of people vs the more intimate ride on the Stowe Gondola. What they do have in common is amazing views at the summit of the layers upon layers of mountain ranges. A feast for the eyes! My personal opinion is that the feeling at the summit of Jay is like being on top of the world! It is breathtaking! The 360 degree views are like none other I have experienced. Any chance you can do both?
I know they are a bit expensive but sooooo worth it!
I have been on all the chair lift, gondola, tram rides in Vermont except Burke Mountain during their annual fall festival which is canceled this year. I think there are 8 in total. I loved all of them but my favorite is the single chair lift at Mad River Glen. I've been on that 3 or more times. That is a different experience in and of itself!
One word of advice if I may. Make sure before you head over to either Jay or Stowe that the summit is clear and not shrouded in clouds, fog, mist, etc. Phil (pwt) and I drove around a bit before we took the Jay tram and waited for the summit to clear out. It was pretty foggy beforehand. Not only are you going for the thrill of the ride up, but the ultimate reward is the long views all around you at the top. You can walk all around the top of Jay for different views.
That said, be prepared for abrupt change in weather at the top. Wear layers! The temperature can change quickly and the wind can be whipping up! One of the lift rides I took a few years ago, I wish I had gloves and earmuffs because it was so cold and we got to the bottom and it was in the 70s!
I hope this helps! Post back here and let us know how it went and which one you chose! CT
I like to support the local fireman's food truck for lunch, but there are some other good foodies there as well.
