While many people associate the Mad River Valley with skiing and snowboarding, the region is also home to many activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and tide pools. Although this area may seem like a secluded cluster of rustic farm houses, it is also home to bustling breweries and wineries, as well as gourmet restaurants, including many Vermont specialties. You can also sample parking lot tacos and ramen noodles, or indulge in fine dining.
One of the best parts of the region is its 58 miles of marked trails, which connect special places throughout the area. There is something for every level of rider, from beginner-friendly Blueberry Lake to advanced technical trails in Eurich Pond and Chase Brook Town Forest. In addition to the well-marked trails, the region has two popular downhill ski areas, Blueberry Lake Cross Country and Ole’s Cross Country Center. These locations have kilometers of trails that range from intermediate to expert-level.
A quieter destination than many other areas in New England, Mad River Valley Vermont is a peaceful retreat for couples seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The region is home to many charming restaurants, inns, and bed and breakfasts, offering farm-fresh fare and casual luxury. If skiing is your thing, the area is within 15 minutes of both Stowe Mountain and Sugarbush. You can also easily reach these resorts via scenic Route 100.
If you’re looking for a place to grab some picnic lunch supplies, you can check out the Warren Store. There’s also a small shop upstairs, where you can buy gift ideas and other items. If you’d like to enjoy some Vermont wine and cheese, you can try the Oma cheese produced by Von Trapp Farmstead. This washed-rind semi-soft cheese has a pungent aroma and almost pudding-like consistency.
You can also hike to Sugarbush Snowmaking Pond, which is close to the parking area. It has a small stream connecting to the Mad River and provides an excellent swimming spot. In addition, the pond also contains large rocks for climbing. After passing Kingsbury Farm, the road to the pond is on the right. There’s a sign pointing you to the trail. You’ll be able to follow it once you’ve arrived at the parking area.
The quaint downtown area is the perfect place for a day trip. It is near two ski resorts, Mount Snow and Stratton Mountain. Hiking trails are also popular. Haystack Mountain is a popular 5-mile hike with 360-degree Vermont views. In addition to hiking, Mass MoCA and Tanglewood are nearby. The town’s covered bridges are another unique feature. The surrounding environment is rustic with cabin charm and industrial touches.