If someone asks me where to spend a weekend in Vermont, the Mad River Valley is almost always one of my first recommendations.
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve driven over the Appalachian Gap into Waitsfield, sometimes with an entire day planned and other times simply looking for a great meal and an excuse to explore. And I rarely make the trip without stopping for a Vermont craft beer or something sweet.
There’s a lot packed into this stretch of Route 100. Two of Vermont’s most beloved ski mountains, excellent restaurants, historic covered bridges, locally owned shops and some of my favorite back roads in the state.
But what keeps bringing me back is the community.
The Mad River Valley has long attracted artists, farmers, chefs, outdoor enthusiasts and people who have chosen to live here because they value a lifestyle that allows them to spend time outside. It’s a little rugged, decidedly laid-back and full of people doing interesting things.
And while Sugarbush Local favorite: Sugarbush Resort and Mad River Glen Local favorite: Mad River Glen put the valley on the map for skiing, there’s plenty to experience here in every season.
Where Is Vermont’s Mad River Valley?
The Mad River Valley is located in Central Vermont, along Route 100, and includes Waitsfield, Warren, Fayston and the surrounding mountain communities.
Waitsfield is the commercial center of the valley, with restaurants, galleries and shops clustered around its historic village and the Route 100 corridor.
Warren, just a few miles south, is one of my favorite little Vermont villages, home to the Warren Store and The Pitcher Inn.
The area is beautiful throughout the year, with swimming holes and hiking trails in summer, incredible foliage in fall and some of Vermont’s best skiing in winter. I’d recommend at least a full day to explore, although a weekend gives you time to enjoy the valley without rushing.
Where to Eat in the Mad River Valley
The Mad Taco | Waitsfield
The original Mad Taco in Waitsfield has been one of my favorite casual restaurants in Vermont for years.
It’s tucked into a little strip mall along Route 100, and the interior is a little dingy. The music is loud, the dining room is cramped and the smoked meats are fantastic.
My go-to orders are the carnitas tostada, sweet potato burrito or pork belly Big Daddy Fatty. And don’t overlook the house-made hot sauces.
The Mad Taco also has a strong selection of Vermont craft beer and makes a great margarita.
American Flatbread at Lareau Farm | Waitsfield
American Flatbread is another Mad River Valley institution, serving wood-fired flatbreads made with locally sourced ingredients.
Located at Lareau Farm, the restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful outdoor seating during warmer months.
I love the Punctuated Equilibrium flatbread with goat cheese, olives, roasted peppers and rosemary. The Pepperoni & Peppers is another favorite.
It’s a great option for families or groups, particularly if everyone wants to share a few different flatbreads.
The Pitcher Inn | Warren
For a special dinner, I’d head to The Pitcher Inn in Warren Village. The inn offers fine dining in its main restaurant, along with the more casual Tracks Tavern downstairs.
I’ve stayed at The Pitcher Inn several times, and it remains one of my favorite places in Vermont for a special occasion.
The service is exceptional, the dining room is beautiful and the wine cellar is particularly impressive.
Canteen Creemee Company Local favorite: Canteen Creemee Company | Waitsfield
If you know me, you know I rarely pass up a good Vermont creemee.
Canteen Creemee Company in Waitsfield has become one of the valley’s most popular stops for soft serve, with creative flavors and toppings that go well beyond the traditional maple and vanilla.
I love the inventive combinations, particularly when they incorporate Vermont ingredients. It’s a fun stop after hiking, swimming or exploring the valley on a warm afternoon.
Twisted Halo | Waitsfield
The Mad River bakery is known for its churro cruller, a wonderful combination of a light, airy cruller and cinnamon-sugar coating.
The original has developed quite a following, and newer chocolate and caramel variations have added even more reasons to stop. It’s just steps from the Great Eddy Covered Bridge too!
Vermont Craft Beer in the Mad River Valley
Lawson’s Finest Liquids | Waitsfield
Lawson’s Finest Liquids is one of Vermont’s best-known craft breweries, and its Waitsfield taproom is a regular stop for me. The brewery has a beautiful indoor space and outdoor beer garden, with a menu of casual food and plenty of Vermont beer.
Sip of Sunshine helped put Lawson’s on the map, but I’d encourage you to explore the other beers on tap, too.
I love visiting during warmer months when the beer garden is open and the surrounding mountains are green. And if you’re traveling with friends who don’t drink beer, there are other beverage options available.
Outdoor Recreation in the Mad River Valley
Skiing at Sugarbush & Mad River Glen
The Mad River Valley is home to two of Vermont’s most recognizable ski destinations.
Sugarbush Resort offers extensive terrain across Lincoln Peak and Mount Ellen, along with a variety of trails for different ability levels.
Mad River Glen is known for its historic single chairlift, challenging terrain and longstanding commitment to preserving a traditional skiing experience.
Even if you’re not a skier, both mountains are part of the valley’s identity and beautiful places to visit.
Hiking the Appalachian Gap & Nearby Trails
The Appalachian Gap, located along Route 17 between Waitsfield and Bristol, is one of my favorite mountain passes in Vermont.
The road climbs through the Green Mountains, with beautiful views and access to the Long Trail. For experienced hikers, the nearby Long Trail sections offer challenging terrain and rewarding views.
If you’re looking for something easier, consider lower-elevation walks in the valley or exploring the trails around Sugarbush.
Swimming in the Mad River
During summer, the Mad River becomes one of the valley’s biggest attractions.
Warren Falls is one of Vermont’s most recognizable swimming holes, with clear pools and dramatic rock formations.
It’s beautiful, but it can get extremely busy on warm weekends. I’d recommend arriving early and being cautious around slippery rocks and fast-moving water. There are also other swimming areas along the river, although access and conditions vary.
Biking the Mad River Valley
The valley has developed a wonderful network of mountain biking trails, particularly around Waitsfield and Warren.
The Mad River Riders maintain a trail network with routes for different experience levels, including flow trails, technical singletrack and connections through the surrounding hills.
For road cyclists, Route 100 and the valley’s back roads offer beautiful scenery, although some roads have narrow shoulders and significant elevation changes.
Things to Do Beyond Outdoor Recreation
Waitsfield Farmers Market
The Waitsfield Farmers Market is one of my favorite summer markets in Vermont.
Held seasonally on Saturdays, it brings together local farmers, food producers, artisans and musicians.
I love wandering through the stalls, sampling local products and grabbing something for lunch while listening to live music.
It’s a great way to experience the community, particularly if you’re visiting during summer or early fall.
Visit the Mad River Valley’s Covered Bridges
The valley is home to several beautiful covered bridges, including the Great Eddy Covered Bridge in Waitsfield, the Pine Brook Covered Bridge and the Warren Covered Bridge.
I love photographing these historic structures throughout the year, particularly during foliage season.
The Great Eddy Bridge is right in Waitsfield Village, making it an easy stop while exploring downtown.
Shop at the Artisans’ Gallery
The Artisans’ Gallery in Waitsfield is one of my favorite places to browse Vermont-made art and gifts.
The gallery features work by local artists, including pottery, jewelry, paintings, woodwork and other handcrafted pieces.
It’s a wonderful place to find something made in Vermont, particularly if you’re shopping for a gift.
Explore the Warren Store
The Warren Store is one of my most frequent stops in the Mad River Valley.
Located in Warren Village across from The Pitcher Inn, this historic general store has a fantastic deli, bakery and upstairs boutique.
My go-to lunch order is the ABLT, particularly when I can enjoy it outside on the deck overlooking Freeman Brook.
And don’t overlook the upstairs shop, which carries clothing, home goods and locally made gifts.
Where to Stay in the Mad River Valley
The Pitcher Inn | Warren
If you’re planning a special getaway, The Pitcher Inn is my first recommendation.
The inn has individually designed guest rooms and suites, each with its own personality.
I’ve stayed in the Mountain Room, which features a fire tower-inspired sleeping area, Vermont stone and a beautiful steam shower. I’ve also stayed in the Stable Suite, a wonderful option for a family getaway.
It’s a splurge, but the accommodations and service make it a memorable stay.
What to Know Before You Go
- Location
- The Mad River Valley is in Central Vermont, primarily along Route 100 between Waitsfield and Warren, with Fayston and surrounding mountain communities nearby.
- How Long to Visit
- A full day is enough to enjoy a few restaurants and attractions, but I’d recommend at least two nights if you’re planning to hike, ski or explore the surrounding towns.
- Best Time to Visit
- Summer is wonderful for swimming, farmers markets and outdoor dining. Fall brings beautiful foliage, while winter is the busiest season for skiing. Spring can be muddy, and some businesses operate on reduced schedules.
- Getting Around
- You’ll need a car to explore the valley. Route 100 connects the main villages, while Route 17 crosses the Appalachian Gap toward Bristol. The mountain pass is steep and winding, particularly in winter.
- Outdoor Recreation
- Sugarbush and Mad River Glen are the major ski destinations. The Mad River Riders maintain mountain biking trails, and the Long Trail offers challenging hikes. Check trail conditions during mud season.
- Swimming
- Warren Falls is a popular summer destination, but use caution around fast-moving water and slippery rocks. Never jump into unfamiliar pools.
- Dining
- Popular restaurants can get busy during ski season and foliage weekends. Make reservations when possible, and check seasonal hours for casual eateries and creemee stands.
- Nearby Destinations
- Waterbury, Stowe, Bristol and the Champlain Valley are all options for extending your trip.
- Visitor Information
- The Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce maintains a helpful directory of accommodations, restaurants, events and local activities.
Why I Keep Returning to the Mad River Valley
After years of exploring Vermont, the Mad River Valley remains one of the places I recommend most often.
I love the contrast between its world-class skiing and its small-town atmosphere. You can spend the morning hiking a challenging mountain trail, have lunch at a little taco shop in a strip mall and finish the afternoon with a Vermont beer overlooking the mountains. And while the valley has become a popular destination for visitors, it still has a strong sense of community.
There are plenty of reasons to visit, but I think the best way to experience the Mad River Valley is to give yourself a little extra time. Take the back roads, stop at the local shops and don’t be afraid to change your plans when something catches your attention.
That’s usually when I have the most fun.
The places in this guide, on the map
- Directions to Sugarbush Resort (opens in a new tab)
- Directions to Mad River Glen (opens in a new tab)
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Directions to Canteen Creemee Company (opens in a new tab)
Creemee or ice cream stand · Waitsfield, VT
Go for a unique creemee or sundae - but don't miss their savory bites too!
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Directions to Great Eddy Covered Bridge (opens in a new tab)
Attraction · Waitsfield, VT
Also known as the Historic Waitsfield Covered Bridge, this is a great covered bridge to photograph and walk across within walking distances…
And while you are here stop into Nostalgia, an antiques and vintage shop, and see why everyone loves our style. Located in the old church at 4276 Main st.
My grandson and his wife moved up there December 2014 . They love it.
In your article about the Mad River Valley, you overlooked one of the locals favorite places- The Big Picture Restaurant and movie theater. In this iconic place one can eat a delicious dinner in the movie theater .