Often, when people imagine traveling to the best places to visit in Vermont, they picture covered bridges, small towns, and mountain views. The Mad River Valley encompasses all of that, but it’s also a place where working farms dot the landscape, where two independent ski areas define the culture, and where a short drive connects you to some of the best culinary options, community art hubs, and spectacular outdoor adventures, many easily accessible.
The Mad River Valley centers on Waitsfield and Warren, two towns set about five miles apart. The drive between them takes less than ten minutes, yet along that stretch, you’ll pass working dairy farms, roadside produce stands, Vermont waterfalls, and striking views of the Green Mountains. You can track the movement of light across the hills throughout the day, especially in late afternoon when the sun drops behind the western ridge, without a billboard in sight! You’ll find so many things to do in Vermont in this area.
Staying at a Bed and Breakfast in Vermont, especially in the Mad River Valley, puts you close to everything without feeling like you are in a busy center. West Hill House B&B sits on a quiet country road with views of the surrounding woodland. Mornings start with a homemade breakfast, often using ingredients from nearby farms. From here, you can reach hiking trails, river access points, or town centers within minutes. Come discover one of the best places to visit in Vermont and book your lodging today!
The Mad River Valley is one of the Best Places to visit in Vermont
As a guest at our B&B, a short drive takes you to the village center of Warren, where a lovely local store offers much to browse and taste. About five miles down the road, you’ll find Sugarbush Resort, which spans two mountains: Lincoln Peak and Mount Ellen. In winter, skiers spread out across more than 100 trails. In summer, there are plenty of warm-weather things to do at Sugarbush. You can ride to the summit of Lincoln Peak and ejoy the view, hike your way around the mountain, or book a tee time at the golf course.
Across the valley, there’s another well-known ski resort: Mad River Glen. The mountain operates as a skier-owned cooperative, a model that keeps decisions in local hands. Its single chairlift, installed in 1948 and still in use, climbs 2,000 vertical feet in one continuous line. Trails follow the natural terrain, with narrow routes that wind through hardwood forest rather than broad, machine-cut paths. The experience attracts dedicated skiers, but it also speaks to a broader commitment to preserving ways from the past.
Another charming small town, Waitsfield, Vermont, serves as the cultural and commercial core and is always considered one of the best places to visit in Vermont. Bridge Street runs through the village, lined with restored 19th-century buildings that now house independent shops, galleries, and restaurants. There are no national chains here. Instead, you find a bookstore that hosts author readings, a bakery turning out morning pastries, and small dining rooms where menus change based on what farms deliver that week.
From late May through mid-October, the Waitsfield Farmers Market brings together more than 70 vendors. Growers from the valley set up early, offering heirloom tomatoes, sweet corn, berries, and fresh-cut flowers at peak season. Food stands prepare dishes on site, including wood-fired pizza and breakfast sandwiches made with local eggs and Vermont cheddar. Live music runs through the morning, with regional bands playing on a small stage set just off the main field.
For those exploring places to visit in Vermont in the summer, the Mad River itself becomes a focal point. Water temperatures stay cold, even in July, due to runoff from higher elevations. Popular access points include Warren Falls, where a series of cascades create deep pools and smooth rock chutes. On warm afternoons, you will find locals and visitors climbing the rocks, then sliding into the water below. If you love to discover waterfalls, Moss Glen Falls is a beauty, and it’s an easy scenic drive, and can be reached by a short hike.
Cycling also plays a major role during the warmer months. Route 100 provides a steady north-south corridor, while side roads like East Warren Road and Roxbury Mountain Road offer more challenging climbs. Riders often map routes that pass covered bridges, including the historic Waitsfield Covered Bridge, originally built in 1833 and later reconstructed after flood damage. These are often light on car traffic, allowing for longer, more relaxing rides. If you prefer mountain biking, the Mad River Riders is a great resource.
Fall draws national attention, and the Mad River Valley earns it through its elevation range. Maples along the valley floor turn first, followed by higher stands on the surrounding slopes. By early October, the entire valley is covered in red, orange, and gold, extending from the riverbanks to the ridgelines. The Mad River Valley is one of the best places to visit in Vermont during the fall foliage season. Lodging properties fill up quickly, so it’s good to plan ahead.
Food and agriculture remain a focus throughout the year. Farms such as Hartshorn Organic Farm and Knoll Farm contribute produce, meats, and dairy to local kitchens. Warren and Waitsfied restaurants change their menus with the seasons, relying on local produce and proteins to create magical dishes that delight locals and visitors alike. A few nearby favorites are The Pitcher Inn, Mad Bush Falls, The Hyde Away, and Lawson’s Finest Liquids.
There are many artists who call the Mad River Valley home. The valley supports a network of studios and galleries, including the Bundy Modern, which focuses on contemporary works in a renovated mill building along the Mad River (reopens in June). And a must-stop in the Mad River Valley Arts, a place with rotating exhibits and a gift shop with fantastic local wares. This area is truly one of the most memorable places to visit in Vermont for art lovers!
Stay at our Bed and Breakfast in Vermont
The Mad River Valley truly stands out as one of the most beautiful places to visit in Vermont, showcasing its unique character around every bend! Here, agriculture thrives alongside outdoor adventures, and charming independent businesses give each town its personality. For those exploring Vermont, this region presents a delightful journey, from the flowing river to the majestic mountains, and from farm-fresh meals to the warmth of cozy small towns, where community spirit is bright.
Staying at West Hill House B&B places you on a quiet hillside above the Mad River Valley, with direct views of the Green Mountains and easy access to Waitsfield and Warren. Guest rooms feature cozy fireplaces and modern comforts, including air conditioning and high-speed Wi-Fi. Each morning begins with a full homemade breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients, and we offer amenities such as billiards, gardens to explore, and a guest lounge with complimentary refreshments. You’ll quickly see that one of the best places to visit in Vermont is our B&B. Book your lodging today!
