The Mad River Valley is one of Vermont’s most authentic destinations — shaped by stunning mountain landscapes, a tight-knit community, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors, local food, and the arts. Whether you’re here for the skiing, the foliage, the hiking, or just to slow down for a few days, there’s more to discover than most visitors ever find. The resources below are the best starting points for planning your time in the Valley.
Plan Your Trip
The Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce is the most comprehensive resource for everything the Valley has to offer — from events and dining to shopping, services, and an interactive itinerary builder that maps out your visit. For a more local perspective, Mad River Valley Insider offers the kind of insider knowledge you’d normally only get from a friend who lives here. Both are worth bookmarking before you arrive.
Skiing & Snowboarding
Hyde Away sits at the doorstep of two of Vermont’s most beloved ski mountains. Sugarbush Resort spans two peaks — Mt. Ellen (1.9 miles away) and Lincoln Peak (4.9 miles away) — with over 100 trails and some of the best terrain in the East. Mad River Glen, just 3.1 miles from our door, is a cooperative-owned ski area that has preserved its old-school character since 1948 — no snow-making on most trails, one of the last single chairs in the country, and a fiercely loyal following. For cross-country skiing, Blueberry Lake Cross Country Center in Warren offers groomed trails through the woods.
Summer & Fall
The Valley is just as compelling when the snow melts. The Mad River Path is a scenic multi-use trail network for walking, running, and cycling along the Mad River. The Green Mountain Club maintains hundreds of miles of hiking trails throughout Vermont, including several accessible from the Valley. The Waitsfield Farmers Market runs on Saturdays from late May through October — one of the best in Vermont, with local produce, cheese, maple, crafts, and live music. Fall foliage in the Mad River Valley typically peaks in early to mid-October and is consistently ranked among the most spectacular in New England.
Arts, Culture & Local Spots
The Valley has a surprisingly rich arts scene for a small community. Artisans’ Gallery in Waitsfield showcases work from over 30 local artists and craftspeople. The Big Picture Theater & Café in Waitsfield is a beloved independent cinema and gathering spot. Mad River Distillers crafts small-batch spirits using Vermont grains and maple syrup — tastings available. The Mad River Valley events calendar is the best source for what’s happening during your visit, from live music to festivals to community events year-round.
Have a question about the area or need a recommendation? Ask at the bar — our staff knows the Valley well and are happy to point you in the right direction.
