For years I’ve seen signs touting “Foliage Rides Today” displayed around the Mad River Valley, directing leaf peepers up to Mad River Glen to the iconic single chair for fall foliage rides…  And recently on the first day of fall, I finally crossed the experience off my Vermont bucket list. The single chair ride was hands down worth the wait. What a beautiful ride it was!

I won’t lie… as a non-skier and not knowing what to expect, I was a bit nervous. I can count on one hand the number of lifts and gondolas I’ve been on in my life. But I bought my ticket a the ticket box, proceeded to the entrance, asked the lift attendants if I would fit (the chairs look smaller than they are), and hopped right on! I’m not afraid of heights but my hands were still a bit shaky getting on and for the first few minutes… Halfway up, I texted my husband that this ride isn’t for the faint of heart.

Now having done it and knowing the details, I am spreading the word far and wide about this fall foliage experience you need to collect. Put fear aside. This is a peaceful journey up the mountain, and you’re rewarded by long stunning mountain views and fall color on the way down. Here are all of the details and frequently asked questions for riding Mad River Glen’s single chair up Stark Mountain in Fayston, Vermont.

Have you been on the single chair at Mad River Glen?

The History of the Iconic Single Chair at Mad River Glen

The famous single-chair lift at Mad River Glen is one of only two single chair lifts in the US still operating. The other one is in Alaska. It dates back to 1948 when the mountain opened and was restored in 2007 with modern technology. Adding to the historic appeal, Mad River Glen is the only ski area in the US on the National Register of Historic Places. The single chair (and three double chairs on that limit) help to limit uphill capacity for low skier density on the trails during ski season. Read more about the history of Mad River Glen here.

FAQS for the Fall Foliage Single Chair Ride:

When does the single chair run for foliage tours at Mad River Glen?

The foliage single chair rides at Mad River Glen only run for three weekends (Saturday & Sunday through October 8). Keep an eye on their website on the events’ page and social channels every year to know when the weekends will be (depending on how Mother Nature and foliage show up, of course!).

What time of day does the single chair operate during foliage season?

The lift runs from 10AM – 2:30 PM on Saturday and Sunday only during the three foliage weekends.

Can I buy tickets online?

No, tickets are purchased on site at the Mad River Glen ticket box. Walk in the entrance and down the decking to the very end. The ticket box is on the end on the right. They do take cash and credit cards.

How many chairs are there on the lift?

There are 158 single chairs on the single-chair lift at Mad River Glen.

How long is the ride and how high does it go up the mountain?

The ride is about mile long uphill and rises 1,972 feet. It takes only 9 minutes to get to the top at its max speed (although this  is definitely slowed down for foliage). I believe it took me about 20 or so minutes both ways with a few minutes to take in the views from the top.

What ages can ride it?

I saw moms and dads with youngsters on their laps, a kiddo of maybe 4 years old riding himself, and quite a few sprightly seniors taking the journey to the top. I would say you have to be able to walk on uneven and hilly surfaces and step up onto the platforms. Otherwise, you don’t need any kind of physical strength or extended mobility to partake in this fall activity.

What does it cost?

The cost to ride the single chair is $20 for adults ($15 for juniors and seniors). It’s also free to season pass holders at Mad River Glen. To compare, the cost of the Stowe Gondola up Mount Mansfield, which is a wholly different experience and also worth doing, is $37 for adults and $25 for kids.

Does it only go up?

No, the single chair ticket is good for a ride up and a ride down. You could always hike up or down on the trails if you chose instead. There’s also a parking lot at the top of the  mountain you could hike over to for someone to pick you up on the top of the App Gap!

More Tips for the Single Chair:

Does my weight shift forward coming down? Is it scary?

No, the seats are very sturdy and my weight didn’t shift forward at all coming down. I was much more relaxed coming down than going up – perhaps I was too focused on the stunning views!

How small are the seats? Will I fit?

The seats are roomier than I thought – comparable to an airline seat. I am not a small person and there was plenty of room for me to be quite comfortable and between the bar that comes down.

How do I get on the single chair?

There is an attendant when you get on and off. They direct you to stand on a green mark and look over your shoulder. They grab the chair and slow it down slowly as you sit into it. Easy! At the top, they catch the chair so you can get off more easily. For those with mobility issues needing more time, they can pause the lift too – although that does stop it for everyone.

Where do you put your feet? Or do they just hang?

Once you load in, you’ll move the bar across your waist that also brings you over a footrest! Before arriving at the top, there’s a sign to move your bar back over so you can exist seamlessly.

Where do I get off? Or do I stay on for the up and down?

There is a mid-station: don’t get off there! You’ll see a sign that says the mid-station is closed and there should be a lift attendant there to stay high. Wait until the very top. You do have to get off at the top and walk around to the other side to reload. Or stay and hike for a bit or take in the views from an observation deck.

What can I do at the top of the mountain?

There is an observation deck at the top along with trails to access along with a warming hut. Pack a sandwich and sweet treat from the Warren Store and enjoy some time at the top of the  mountain.

Does the single chair stop every time someone gets on?

Nope! In my whole ride up and down, the chair only stopped once for about 5 seconds.

Is there a weight limit?

Not that I could find posted anywhere. There were people of various shapes and sizes riding the lift.

Is it cold on the single chair?

You are out in the open elements – no glass or doors here! The day I went up, I was wearing a flannel shirt and was quite comfortable. On the way down, I was a bit chilly without having the sun shining on me. I would recommend a light jacket at least – depending on the temperatures outside. If you’re holding onto the metal bars, you may want gloves as they can be a bit chilly!

What else is there to do at Mad River Glen during the fall?

Before or after your single chair ride, you can pop into General Stark’s Pub or lunch or a local beer.

How do we get to Mad River Glen?

It’s an easy drive up route 17 (halfway) up the AppGap from either Bristol or Waitsfield. Mad River Glen’s website has more information here.

Have you been to the Mad River Glen single chair in the fall for foliage or winter to ski? Share your tips below!

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