View the Foliage Like a Pro

With our dirt roads, mountain vistas, rolling farmland and sinewy river the Mad River Valley offers an ideal backdrop for spectacular foliage viewing. The big question is; What’s the best way to experience leaf peeping?  The answer depends on who you talk to. Here are a few suggestions;

One of the most common ways to view the leaves is to simply take a walk, ramble or hike on one the Mad River Valley’s array of trails.

Biking is world-class here in the MRV. Whether you like gravel riding, mountain biking or a classic road ride, there are a wide range of options.  Mountain Biking in the MRV and the surrounding area is world-class. If the pavement is more your thing check out all the Road Biking options we have to offer. The Mad River Riders, our local biking group and trail stewards, offer recommendations for road rides as well as mountain bike trails.

A leisurely foliage drive has been an enjoyable pastime since the automobile was invented. Our dirt roads, highways and byways offer an amazing array of options of varying lengths. We have all our favorites mapped out here or stop on into the new Mad River Valley Visitor Center on the corner of Routes 100 and 17. We’d be happy to map out a custom itinerary for you.

Another interesting option is take a trail ride over mountains, meadows, and forests on one of the oldest horse breeds in the world at the Vermont Icelandic Horse Farm . The tireless and efficient movement of the Icelandic Horse makes it the ideal saddle horse, seeming to dance effortlessly over the earth with lightness and power.

For many of us, the ultimate way to see foliage in Vermont, is a soaring experience at Sugarbush Soaring. They operate out of the the Warren-Sugarbush Airport which is arguably the most beautiful airport anywhere. To be honest, the drive to the airport is a spectacular foliage drive in an of it self. Be sure to pencil in a glider ride during the foliage season.

The Mad River Valley is home to some of the best skiing in New England. In the fall both of our ski areas offer foliage rides.  Sugarbush Resort offer rides at Lincoln Peak  and at Mad River Glen you can take a foliage ride on the iconic Single Chair.

Another great way to enjoy this season in the MRV is to enjoy an amazing meal with a view at one of our fine eateries. Nearly all of which offer a deck, patio or windows with spectacular foliage views.

At the end of your busy day kick back and relax at your lodging accommodations which almost certainly offer a a room with a view.