• Things to Do 
      Warren Falls
      Waitsfield Farmers Market
      Bikers on a path
      Bridge Street
      Mad River Path
      Rainbow at Sugarbush
      Warren Falls
      Waitsfield Farmers Market
      Bikers on a path
      Bridge Street
      Mad River Path
      Rainbow at Sugarbush
      Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, local flavor, or a little bit of everything, the Mad River Valley is packed with ways to make the most of summer in Vermont. From swimming holes and waterfalls to farmers markets, art galleries, and live theater, there’s no shortage of things to explore. Dive into some of our favorite ways to experience the best of the Valley.

      Swimming Holes
      Cool off like a local with a dip in one of the Mad River Valley’s famous swimming holes. The Mad River itself offers plenty of spots to swim, wade, and relax along its scenic banks. For a quieter, family-friendly option, head to Blueberry Lake, a peaceful spot perfect for swimming, paddling, and picnicking under the summer sun.

      Farmers Markets
      No trip to the Mad River Valley is complete without a visit to the Waitsfield Farmers Market. Held Saturday mornings throughout the summer, it’s a must-do experience filled with local produce, artisan goods, live music, and delicious eats. Shop, snack, and soak up the community vibe that makes the Valley so special.

      Waterfalls
      Chasing waterfalls? The Mad River Valley is home to some of Vermont’s most beautiful spots to cool off. Treat yourself to a true Vermont experience with a cold plunge followed by a sauna session at Madbush Falls, a local favorite for recovery and relaxation. Afterward, head to Warren Falls, one of the state's most popular natural swimming and cliff-jumping spots, featuring crystal-clear pools and natural rock slides. Whether you're plunging in or simply soaking up the views, these waterfalls are a must-do part of any summer visit.

      Art & Theater
      The Mad River Valley is home to a thriving arts scene. Explore local galleries like Mad River Valley Arts and Blockhouse Studio, discover handcrafted pottery, and time your visit with Vermont’s Open Studio Days to meet artists in action. For live performances, check out the Valley Players, the Valley’s beloved community theater group based in Waitsfield, known for putting on entertaining shows all year long.

      Movie Theater
      Catch a movie at Big Picture Theater, where you can enjoy a laid-back film experience along with great food and drinks. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.

      Mountain Biking
      The Mad River Riders maintain over 60 miles of diverse singletrack. Offering trails for every style of rider, from mellow riverside loops to rugged technical climbs and descents. Looking for even more? The famed Ridgeline network is just a short drive south offering even more flow, challenge, and stunning Green Mountain views. With so much riding right out the door, the Mad River Valley is a dream destination for riders who like their trails fresh, scenic, and a little wild.

      Gravel Biking
      The Mad River Valley boasts a network of winding backroads that weave through classic farms, dense forests, and historic villages. From casual spins along the river to big mileage climbs deep into the Green Mountains. Bring your gravel bike and get ready to discover some of the most picturesque riding in Vermont, right from your doorstep.

      Hiking & Backpacking
      From peaceful woodland strolls to rugged alpine climbs, the Mad River Valley is a hiker’s paradise. Lace up your boots and explore a vast network of scenic trails winding through lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic ridgelines. Summit peaks like Mount Ellen and Lincoln Peak for sweeping Green Mountain views, or take it slow with a gentle loop around Blueberry Lake. Backpackers will find plenty of opportunities to go deeper into the wild connect to Vermont’s iconic Long Trail and spend a night under the stars. Whether you’re looking for a quick morning hike or a multi-day mountain adventure, the Mad River Valley delivers the kind of trail magic you’ll want to return to again and again.

    • Shopping

      Shopping

      The Mad River Valley offers a diverse shopping experience, with plenty to explore on Waitsfield's Bridge Street. Browse through Deadrise Revival for vintage antiques, or the Artisan Gallery showcases local crafts and fine art, perfect for those seeking a unique piece to take home. Families will love The Collection, with its curated selection of children’s toys in the Mad River Green. Outdoor adventurers can gear up at Mad Rover and Clearwater Sports, offering everything from skiing to hiking equipment. Whether you’re shopping for art, gifts, or gear, the Valley’s shops provide a memorable experience.

    • Dining
      Dining
      Dining in the Mad River Valley offers a range of options to suit every taste and occasion. Families will enjoy casual spots like The Mad Taco and The Mad River Barn, both offering hearty meals in a relaxed setting. Mad Bush Falls provides a cozy atmosphere with comforting dishes that appeal to all ages, making it a great choice for a laid-back family meal.

      For a more refined experience, Scrag & Roe offers a contemporary dining setting with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, crafting an intimate and elevated culinary experience. The Pitcher Inn delivers upscale dining in a picturesque, charming atmosphere.
    • The Surrounding Area 
      Surrounding Area
      The Mad River Valley is perfectly situated for exploring Vermont’s iconic destinations. Nearby Waterbury, dubbed "The Beer Capital of Vermont," offers craft breweries, pubs, and attractions like Ben & Jerry’s Factory. Burlington, less than an hour away, provides vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment along Lake Champlain, while Shelburne Museum features unique historical and artistic exhibits. Montpelier, the nation’s smallest state capital, combines historic charm with a thriving restaurant scene, making it a must-visit. These surrounding areas showcase Vermont’s charm, history, and culture.
    • Winter Activities
      Activities
      Activities
      Cross Country Skiing
      The Mad River Valley is a haven for cross-country skiing enthusiasts, offering a variety of trails and stunning scenery for all skill levels. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful glide through snow-covered woods or a workout in wide-open fields, this region has something for everyone.

      Ole’s Cross Country Center, located on a scenic airport meadow, features 30 miles (45 km) of groomed trails perfect for both classic skiing and ski skating. Skiers of all abilities can enjoy breathtaking views of Sugarbush Mountain or escape into the quiet tranquility of the forest. Nearby, Blueberry Lake Cross Country Ski Center offers an equally inviting experience, with meticulously groomed trails winding through rolling terrain and scenic woodlands, an ideal choice for families and beginners.

      For those looking to expand their adventure, the Catamount Trail runs directly through the Valley, weaving past landmarks like the Sugarbush Golf Course. This renowned backcountry ski route stretches the length of Vermont, offering endless opportunities for exploration.

      Just south of Sugarbush, the Rikert Nordic Center in Ripton adds another dimension to your Nordic skiing experience. Situated near Middlebury College, it features trails for classic and skate skiing, with stunning views of the Green Mountains and even some lighted routes for evening outings.

      Whether you're a seasoned Nordic skier or new to the sport, the Mad River Valley and surrounding areas provide some of the best cross-country skiing in Vermont.
      Snowshoeing
      The Mad River Valley offers an abundance of trails and forests perfect for snowshoeing. With a variety of terrains to explore, snowshoers can easily immerse themselves in Vermont’s winter beauty. Whether you're looking to wander through peaceful woodlands, trek across open meadows, or explore scenic hills, the Valley has countless opportunities for a tranquil outdoor adventure. Explore the quiet, snow-covered landscapes at your own pace and enjoy the beauty of winter in the heart of the Green Mountains.
      Sledding
      The Mad River Valley is a fantastic destination for sledding, offering plenty of fun for all ages. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly hill or a more adventurous slope, there are plenty of places to enjoy the thrill of speeding down the snow. One popular spot is the Sugarbush Golf Course, where visitors can take advantage of the open space for a classic sledding experience with a view of the surrounding mountains.
      Ice Skating
      Ice skating in the Mad River Valley is a popular winter activity, and the Skatium in Waitsfield is the perfect spot to lace up your skates. This indoor rink offers a great place for both casual skaters and hockey enthusiasts to enjoy the season. Whether you're gliding around the rink with family or practicing your skills, the Skatium provides a fun, welcoming environment for all. It's a local favorite for a classic winter experience in the heart of the Mad River Valley.