When you visit the Mad River Valley in the summer, with sunsoaked meadows, sparkling rivers, and breezy mountain passes, there is plenty for everyone to enjoy together. Here, spectacular natural and pastoral landscapes come together, with rich history and community at your fingertips.
Lakes and Rivers
The topography of Mad River Valley means there are numerous easy to access swimming holes and riverbanks. You can enjoy sublime views of the surrounding mountains or tranquil forest bathing. The Mad River Path runs through the heart of the valley, with abundant access points. Many sections maintain a nearly flat grade, and get you to the river in seconds or minutes. In particular, the village centers of both Waitsfield and Warren have sections of the Path that lead to calm river bends right next to delicious local pastries at the Sweet Spot or the “almost world famous” Warren Store. You can even swim under our historic covered bridges.
Other sections of the Mad River Path take you to the snowmaking pond, a favorite short walk for local families at the foot of Lincoln Peak. Or dine in a picnic shelter perched next to bedrock smoothed by the river over time, perfect for scrambling on a sunny day. The path allows for plenty of exploring even if the weather looks a little bit fickle.
The geology of the Green Mountains lends itself to spectacular waterfalls and cascades that invariably create cool pools for swimming in a scenic forest glen. If you can visit Warren Falls during off-peak hours, you can access a refreshing pocket of forest beauty just off Route 100 (no hiking needed). A little bit further south on Route 100, you can reach Moss Glen Falls via a short ADA-Accessible trail. Ask us about other swimming holes and cascades just a little bit further off the beaten path!
Just up the hill from Warren (and 15 minutes from Waitsfield), Blueberry Lake hosts plenty of summer fun for everybody. The bright, calm water and beach are perfect for paddling, fishing, swimming, and picnics speaks. The lake also hosts a mountain bike trail network nationally recognized for beginner fun and cruising. For even more paddling fun, head to Clearwater Sports for kayak and tube rentals on the Mad River in town, or head down the valley to explore bigger rivers and lakes (and delicious local treats) with Umiak Outdoor Outfitters in Waterbury, Stowe, or Richmond.
Outdoor Adventures at Any Pace
Off the water, the Mad River Valley hosts even more adventures for everyone. In addition to the storied (and here, rugged) Long Trail along the western ridge of the valley, flat and rolling trails, from old farm paths to scenic boardwalks, weave through every part of the valley. In the summer, the Chase Brook Town Forest between Fiddlehead Road and Wilder Farm Inn on the Mountain hosts cascades and pools easily accessed from the trailhead or slightly more secluded along the Catamount Trail. The Fayston Elementary school also hosts a beautiful interpretive nature trail across the street from the Chase Brook Trailhead.
Just over the Eddy covered bridge in Waitsfield Village, Wu Ledges Town Forest provides a moderate hike (1 ½ miles out and back) to one of the best overlooks in the valley, and abundant opportunities for exploring big and small (porcupines, fiddleheads, flowers, secluded swimming holes and more). The overlook faces west towards Sugarbush and Mad River Glen, making it a wonderful spot to catch the sunset or fireworks. The Waitsfield Common shares similar views, with parking for mellow walks on peaceful country roads.
Classes and Tours
The Mad River Valley community also hosts fun classes and guided tours that make it easy to enjoy every other aspect of summer here. In addition to the places to explore named above, you can join Umiak Outfitters for paddling adventures, or get in touch with the Mad River Riders for youth and family mountain bike rides throughout the summer.
Everyone can also get involved with the artistic culture with local artisans. Waitsfield and Warren villages are full of outdoor installations, making even a stroll to the cafe an exciting scavenger hunt every time of the year. Kids Creations aims to cultivate lifelong creativity and art exploration with painting and drawing classes for both kids and adults (3-4 people at a time, and customized for you). You can see some playful pieces from the studio currently on display at Three Mountain Cafe.
Blockhouse Studio also hosts a number of pottery classes taught by local potters. You can continue to combine outdoor and indoor adventures by checking in with Luke Iannuzzi Pottery in Warren or Salt and Sand Glassblowing and Yoga Studio. Just down the road from Wilder Farm Inn, Vermont Food and Farm Tours also offers fully customizable tours with something for everyone, which can include planting an edible garden, enjoying a lunch grown on-site with organic methods, or meeting friendly farm horses!
No matter what brings you to the Mad River Valley, you can find an adventure for everyone. Even better, everyone you come with can share them at the same time, in the same place. Ask us how you can experience your dream Vermont adventure with everyone!