Mad River Byway
come for the mountains, stay for the valley
The Mad River Byway may be short in length - at a mere 36 miles - but foot by foot, it offers up an enthralling density of experiences. Following two of Vermont's most scenic roads, Routes 100 and 100B, this valley is a landscape of forested mountains, hillside farms, a flowing river, and church-steepled villages. Destination ski resorts are located uphill, and downhill the destination is the villages - all rich in history, culture, historic buildings, town greens, community activities and special events. Throw in a hyper-local food scene and entertainment and festivals year round, and you have a region worthy of exploring for a day, a week, or a lifetime.
Visit madrivervalley.com for more information.
For entertaining and educational commentary along the way, download the Gypsy Guide before hitting the road. Explore the Mad River Byway as though a personal tour guide were leading the way. Download the Vermont Route 100 Byway Gypsy Guide on the App Store or Google Play.
MAD RIVER BYWAY MAP
World-class dining, breathtaking mountain views, legendary ski resorts and charming downtowns await on the 36-mile Mad River Byway. Find your way using this map.
Arts & Culture
Visitors familiar with Vermont will find both the expected - engaging galleries showing Vermont art and fine craft - but the unexpected too. How about the Madsonion Museum of Design? Or the month-long Festival of the Arts celebrating art, music, theater and more? The unique Warren 4th of July festivities?
Outdoor Recreation
The famous Sugarbush Resort and Mad River Glen are here, along with the Green Mountain National Forest and access to the Long Trail,Vermont's "footpath in the wilderness" and the oldest long distance hiking trail in America. There’s also canoeing, swimming and fishing in the Mad River, and the Mad River Path, a network of public trails and greenways providing pleasant walking, running or bicycling experiences.
Chews & Brews
During the winter months visitors are able to taste delicious local foods and beverages at restaurants ranging from sandwich shops to upscale establishments led by chefs who have left urban life -- but not their artistry - behind. And during the warmer months, the Waitsfield Farmers Market is a must-do excursion.
History & Heritage
The history of this valley is found in the landscape and buildings - both of which, though altered in small ways, still suggest the economy and culture of years past. The farms and villages give one picture, while high up near the access to the Appalachian Hiking Trail, the historic and still-operating Mad River Glen ski area hints at the early days of downhill skiing.