Our Guide to 48 hours in The Mad River Valley This Fall

The Mad River Valley is one of the most beautiful places to explore, relax, and escape in Vermont. Situated on the East side of the Green Mountains, this lush valley is home to a variety of terrains and experiences. Farms and quaint shops are scattered throughout the valley, easily accessible by scenic Vermont Route 100. The mountains shoot up on either side of the valley which becomes increasingly beautiful as the fall brings incredible oranges, golds, and reds to the area. 

Sound like the perfect Vermont oasis? Check out our guide to 48 hours in “The Valley”! 

Friday

There are lots of lodging options in the Mad River Valley – here are our top two picks! 

The Pitcher Inn located in the center of Warren is a truly charming experience, with a variety of themed rooms and a “authentic, serene, and magical” environment. If you’re looking for a high-end, romantic stay, this is the place for you! 

A true Mad River classic, The White Horse Lodge is a great option for those seeking a cozy “home-away-from-home” for the weekend. Start your day with their iconic breakfast or head five minutes down the road into Waitsfield for a bite. 

Saturday

9am: Toast and Eggs in Waitsfield does breakfast right. Using local ingredients from King Arthur Bakery and Cabot creamery, among others, they bring the best of VT together to deliver delicious homestyle eats. Their breakfast sandwiches are exceptional, but nothing beats a stack of buttermilk pancakes with fresh VT maple syrup. 

10am: You’ve heard enough about Vermont foliage – let’s go see some! Taking a scenic lift ride at Sugarbush is a fun and exciting way to see the Mad River Valley and beyond. Cruise up the mountain and take in the views extending to Mount Washington in New Hampshire to the East and The Adirondacks in New York to the West. Looking for a scenic drive and hike? Head up the Appalachian Gap (VT Rt 17) and hike along the famous Long Trail to the Mad River Glen warming hut for scenic views and leaf-peeping. 

12:30pm: After your morning adventure head down to Canteen Creamery for their famous fried chicken (not to worry, there are veggie options) and the iconic Vermont Creemee. Stick with the classic vanilla, chocolate, or maple, or try a fall favorite, “The Apple Crusher.” This delicious combo includes cinnamon and ginger creemee, apple chips, apple saute, cider donut, and cider cream. 

1:30pm: Take a walk or drive down to the Mad River Glass Gallery and explore their incredible selection of hand-blown glass, from bowls to lanterns. Owners David and Melanie have over 30 years of experience working with glass and the result is truly amazing. Their work has been shown and awarded throughout the US and needs to be seen in person to truly appreciate the incredible craftsmanship! Keeping with exploring local artists, make an appointment at The Bundy Modern Gallery and enjoy the rotating pieces featured in this gorgeous museum and explore the property. 

Local events are a great way to see Vermont’s love for the fall! In town on Labor Day weekend? Stop by the Mad River Craft Fair in Waitsfield for “local arts, food court, kids activities, and door prizes.” Yummy local brews and VT go hand-in-hand, and SIPtemberfest is the perfect example of that. Check out this great event on September 17th at the famous Mad River Glen Co-op. 

4pm: Grab a drink at Lawson’s Finest Liquids and see what’s on tap! We love the classics, the Sip of Sunshine and Little Sip. Seasonal releases like the Big Hoppy are always worth exploring, but you really can’t go wrong at Lawson’s! 

6pm: For fine dining in the Mad River Valley, The Pitcher Inn is the premier option for a sophisticated farm-to-table experience. While having exceptional food, thay have also been honored by Wine Spectator with its “Best Award of Excellence”. Looking for a more laid-back local spot? American Flatbread is your place! One of our favorites is the “Punctuated Equilibrium” with kalamata olives, clay-oven-roasted sweet red peppers, VT creamery chevre, mozzarella, red and green onions, and fresh rosemary. 

Sunday

9am: Widely regarded as “nearly famous,” the Warren Store is the perfect place to stop for breakfast and local goodies. Their breakfast sandwiches are made with local ingredients and the store is filled with everything Vermont, from maple syrup to local crafts. 

10am: After stocking up on treats from the Warren Store, head over the Art in the Village right next door. They feature art from local artists, and photography capturing the beauty of Vermont. This eclectic group of work is a must-see “if you love color and all sorts of art.” 

11am: What better way to enjoy the fall scenery and take in the crisp mountain air than on the back of an Icelandic Horse? Make sure to book a ride at the Icelandic Horse Farm in Fayston and explore the pristine wilderness of the Green Mountains on horseback. They offer rides for all levels from beginner to expert – just bring shoes you don’t mind getting muddy! 

1pm: Headed back home? Don’t forget to grab a bite at a VT classic, The Mad Taco. We love anything with their house-smoked meats, but there are plenty of vegetarian choices as well! Once you grab some yummy eats for the road, take the scenic way North or South on VT Route 100. 

Falling in love with the Mad River Valley? We can’t blame you. Check out our available listings here!