Outdoor Adventures
Where to Go Hiking in the Mad River Valley
Get Ready to Hike in the Mad River Valley, Vermont
Vermont’s Green Mountains rise right outside the door here, and the Mad River Valley Vermont holds some of the best hiking in the state. Whether you want an easy walk before dinner or a full day on the Long Trail, you’re never more than a short drive from a trailhead in Waitsfield, VT, or Warren. Below is our full guide to hiking in this region, organized by difficulty so you can pick the right trail for your day. Book your Vermont Bed and Breakfast stay first, then plan the rest of your trip around it.
Easy Strolls for All Skill Levels
The Mad River Path is a collection of connected trails running through Warren and Waitsfield, and it’s the easiest way to get outside without much planning. The Warren Path offers a one-mile out-and-back route through Eaton Town Forest, passing striking boulders and a natural rock bridge, or a shorter half-mile stretch connecting Brooks Recreational Field to Warren Village.
For something along the water, the Riverside Park to Snowmaking Pond Loop covers 2.5 miles, following the Mad River and circling Sugarbush Resort’s snowmaking pond, with forested sections and river access for swimming. If you only have twenty minutes, the Cloud Water Farm Trail is a short 0.3-mile path alongside a sustainable agroforestry farm with its own river access.
Blueberry Lake, just a few minutes from Warren, loops gently through the woods with views of the lake and surrounding hills the whole way, a good pick for a leisurely afternoon or a short hike before dinner back at the inn.
Moderate Day Hikes
Once you’re ready for some elevation, a few trails nearby offer real payoff without an all-day commitment, and they help explain why hiking is always near the top of any list of things to do in Vermont.
The Vista Trail picks up from the north end of the Warren Path. It’s steep for its half-mile length, but it rewards you with sweeping views of the village and the mountains around it. Sunset Ledge, reached from Lincoln Gap, is a classic on the Long Trail, especially popular in the fall when the valley below glows with color. Plan on about an hour for the round trip.
At Mad River Glen, the Stark Mountain Trail climbs 2.5 miles from the base of the ski area, following the old work road beneath the resort’s single chairlift, passing a small waterfall before meeting the Long Trail near the summit.
Mount Abraham is the single most popular summit hike from our inn. Start at the Lincoln Gap trailhead, just over five minutes away, at roughly 2,500 feet, so you’re already more than halfway up before you take a step. At the 1.7-mile mark, you’ll pass Battell Shelter, a common overnight stop for Long Trail hikers. From the 4,000-foot summit, the view opens across the Adirondacks and Lake Champlain to the west, with the White Mountains visible in the other direction. The Green Mountain Club maintains this stretch of the Long Trail and its shelters, and their site is the best place to check current trail conditions before you go.
Advanced Hikes and Long Trail Segments
For hikers who want a full day or a genuine challenge, the Mad River Valley has plenty of terrain to earn. Molly Stark’s Balcony starts from the Appalachian Gap trailhead, about twenty minutes from the inn. The 2.6-mile round trip gains over 500 feet, climbing to the flat ridge at Molly Stark Mountain’s summit before continuing to the balcony itself, where Camel’s Hump and the Worcester Mountains fill the view.
General Stark Mountain, also from the Appalachian Gap, is one of the more serious outings in the area. The 6.2-mile round trip typically takes four to five hours and includes steep terrain with ropes and ladders on the toughest sections. If you have a full day and want to see as much ridgeline as possible, the stretch from Lincoln Gap to Appalachian Gap along the Long Trail runs about eleven miles across the spine of the Green Mountains.
Camel’s Hump is accessible via the Monroe Trailhead or the Burrows Trail, both leading to one of Vermont’s most recognized summits. Check Vermont State Parks for current parking and trail status before you go.
Stay at a Vermont Bed and Breakfast
However you spend the day on the trail, coming back to West Hill House B&B is part of the appeal. A jetted tub, a glass of Vermont beer or wine in the common rooms, and a good night’s sleep in your private guest room before the next day’s adventure make this Vermont Bed and Breakfast a natural home base for exploring the Mad River Valley on foot. Ask us at check-in for current trail conditions or help matching a hike to your group’s fitness level; the Innkeepers are happy to point you toward whichever trail fits your day best.
Mad River Valley Vermont Hiking FAQ
Where is Waitsfield, Vermont?
Waitsfield sits in the Mad River Valley in central Vermont, a few minutes from Warren and West Hill House B&B, and about an hour from Burlington.
What is the best hike in the Mad River Valley?
Mount Abraham is the most popular summit hike from the inn, with a trailhead at Lincoln Gap and views stretching to the Adirondacks and Lake Champlain.
What are the best easy hikes near Waitsfield VT for beginners?
Blueberry Lake and the Warren Path both offer gentle, well-marked trails suited to beginners, each within a few minutes of West Hill House.
What else is there to do in Vermont besides hiking?
The Mad River Valley also offers swimming holes, farm stands, and nearby Sugarbush Resort, making it a good base for combining a hike with other things to do in Vermont.
Whichever trail you choose, West Hill House B&B puts you minutes from the trailhead and a comfortable room waiting at the end of the day. Book your Vermont bed and breakfast stay and start planning your Mad River Valley hiking trip today.
Why Brattleboro is One of Vermont’s Hiking Bases
Hiking Near Brattleboro VT: A Fall Foliage Trail Guide
If you’re planning a trip built around hiking near Brattleboro VT this fall, you’ve chosen one of the most beautiful spots New England. The hills surrounding town turn deep red, burnt orange, and gold through most of October, and the trail network here means you can leave a quiet country road and be hiking within twenty minutes. Some trails start right in town. Whether you want a short loop before lunch or a summit hike that fills an afternoon, Brattleboro sits at the center of some of the best hiking in Vermont to take in fall foliage.
Five State Parks Worth the Drive
Townshend State Park covers 1,244 acres at the base of Bald Mountain along a bend in the West River. The Bald Mountain Trail climbs through hemlock, sugar maple, and birch to a 1,680-foot summit, a moderate-to-difficult 2.75-mile round trip that takes about three hours. Start mid-morning to catch the best light on the ridge.
Jamaica State Park suits mixed-ability groups. There’s an easy riverside walk, a steeper summit route, and a longer trek to a 125-foot waterfall, so your group can split up and meet back at the car. Nearly a third of its 1,122 acres is hardwood forest, which makes for strong color in early to mid-October.
Lowell Lake State Park offers an easy 3.5-mile loop around the lake, about two hours, passing a Revolutionary War-era cemetery along the way. It’s a good choice for families or anyone easing into hiking in Vermont without giving up the foliage payoff.
Wilgus State Park sits along the Connecticut River. The one-mile Pinnacle Trail climbs to a ridgeline view, and the half-mile Wilgus Nature Trail runs along the river with a wildlife-viewing platform for a slower pace.
For one of the last old-growth hardwood stands in Vermont, drive out to Gifford Woods State Park. Sugar maple, beech, yellow birch, and hemlock that have stood for generations line five trails, from easy brookside loops to longer routes out to a waterfall and overlook.
Things to Do in Brattleboro VT After Your Hike
Once your boots come off, downtown Brattleboro offers plenty for anyone exploring things to do in Brattleboro VT. Independent shops, art galleries, and long-running coffee spots line Main Street, and the Latchis Theater still screens films inside a building dating to the 1930s. It’s a great way to round out a day on the trails.
Where to Stay: Inn on Putney Road
Among Brattleboro Vermont Hotels, Inn on Putney Road puts you closest to the action. Located in French Baronial-style home, built in 1929, backs directly onto the Retreat Trail network, so you can walk before breakfast, then come back to a gourmet breakfast before heading out for the day.
Ask about the Take a Hike picnic package, which includes a fabric-lined picnic backpack to keep, a bottle of wine with glasses and a corkscrew, Vermont spring water, and two catered lunches, so you can head straight to the trailhead without a grocery stop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I go hiking near Brattleboro VT?
Townshend, Jamaica, Lowell Lake, Wilgus, and Gifford Woods State Parks are all within a twenty to forty-five minute drive of downtown Brattleboro, and the Retreat Trail network is accessible directly from town.
What is the best time of year for fall foliage hikes near Brattleboro?
Color typically peaks in early to mid-October, though elevation and tree mix shift the timing slightly from park to park.
Are there easy hikes near Brattleboro VT suitable for families?
Yes. Lowell Lake State Park’s flat 3.5-mile loop and the Wilgus Nature Trail are both good options for a gentler introduction to hiking in Vermont.
Which Brattleboro Vermont hotels are within walking distance of trails?
Inn on Putney Road connects directly to the Retreat Trail network from its backyard and sits a five-minute walk from downtown.
Fall books up fast around here. Check availability at Inn on Putney Road and plan your trailside stay.
Why You Should Explore the Hoh Rainforest This Summer
Explore the Hoh Rainforest on the Olympic Coast
Summer is one of the best times to experience the Hoh Rainforest, one of the most recognized natural destinations within Olympic National Park. Located on Washington’s Olympic Coast, this remarkable Washington rainforest attracts visitors with towering old-growth trees, vibrant greenery, and scenic trails that showcase the unique beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
The Hoh Rainforest receives an average of 140 inches of rainfall annually, creating a thriving ecosystem filled with Sitka spruce, Douglas fir, western red cedar, and moss-covered bigleaf maples. During the summer season, cooler temperatures beneath the forest canopy provide a refreshing escape while allowing visitors to comfortably explore the area’s most popular trails.
A visit often begins at the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center, where guests can learn more about the forest’s ecology, current trail conditions, and wildlife. From there, visitors can set out on some of the most popular Hoh Rainforest hikes. The Hall of Mosses Trail remains a favorite thanks to its easy 0.8-mile loop through old-growth forest lined with hanging moss and towering trees. The Spruce Nature Trail offers another scenic option, winding alongside Taft Creek and the Hoh River through a diverse landscape of mature and younger forest growth.
Olympic National Park Lodging Near the Hoh Rainforest
For travelers seeking a deeper wilderness experience, portions of the Hoh River Trail provide access to remote sections of Olympic National Park, with opportunities to enjoy stunning views and abundant wildlife. Roosevelt elk are commonly seen throughout the rainforest, while birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts may also spot river otters, black bears, salamanders, and numerous bird species.
The best time to visit Hoh Rainforest during summer is often early in the morning when parking is more readily available, and trails are quieter. Visitors traveling from Port Angeles to Hoh Rainforest can enjoy a scenic drive through some of the Olympic Peninsula’s most impressive landscapes, creating opportunities to extend the day with additional sightseeing throughout the region.
After exploring the Olympic National Park rainforest, return to comfortable Olympic National Park lodging in Sequim or Port Angeles. Our vacation rentals offer privacy, convenience, and easy access to the peninsula’s top attractions. Whether you choose a treehouse getaway or a spacious vacation home, you will be perfectly positioned to experience the beauty of the Hoh Rainforest and the Olympic Coast this summer. Book your stay today.
Winter Fun in the White Mountains of New Hampshire
Winter Weekend at Great Glen Trails in New Hampshire
Winter in the White Mountains invites you to slow down, step outside, and enjoy the season at its best. A winter weekend at Great Glen Trails delivers exactly that, combining fresh mountain air, snowy landscapes, and some of the most rewarding outdoor activities in New Hampshire. Located at the base of Mount Washington, Great Glen Trails is a favorite for visitors looking to experience winter without the crowds or chaos of larger resorts.
With miles of groomed trails, Great Glen Trails is well known for cross-country skiing in New Hampshire. Both classic and skate skiers will find routes that match their pace, from easy loops to longer trails that stretch deeper into the woods. Snowshoeing is just as popular, offering a quiet way to explore the forest after a fresh snowfall. Tubing, fat-tire biking, and SnowCoach tours round out the experience, making it easy to build a full winter weekend without ever running out of options.
A Cozy White Mountains Weekend Getaway Destination
After a day at Great Glen Trails, returning to our welcoming New Hampshire Bed and Breakfast makes all the difference. A cozy guest room, crackling fire, and thoughtful comforts turn a simple weekend into a true winter getaway. Whether you choose to relax indoors or head back out for another snowy adventure, having a warm and inviting place to unwind sets the tone for the entire trip.
Evenings are best spent enjoying a memorable meal and reflecting on the day’s highlights. Mornings begin with a hearty breakfast that fuels your next adventure, whether that means another visit to Great Glen Trails or exploring other things to do in the White Mountains during winter.
A winter weekend in New Hampshire is about balance, time outdoors paired with comfort and great food. Great Glen Trails delivers the adventure, while a nearby mountain inn provides the perfect place to relax and recharge. Together, they create a winter escape worth planning around.
Winter in Galena Means Skiing at Chestnut Mountain
Best of Winter at Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort
Just a few hours from Chicago, Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort delivers one of the most exciting winter adventures in Illinois. Perched high above the Mississippi River Valley in Galena, this mountain-style resort offers a refreshing change of pace for Midwest travelers craving snow, elevation, and outdoor fun without long-distance travel.
Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort is known for its impressive terrain by Illinois standards, featuring 19 runs across more than 3,500 feet of skiable terrain. From beginner-friendly slopes to challenging black diamond trails, the resort welcomes skiers and snowboarders of all experience levels. A 475-foot vertical drop, consistent snowmaking, and well-groomed runs create reliable conditions throughout the winter season, making it one of the top destinations for skiing in Illinois and a favorite for those seeking skiing near Chicago.
Beyond the slopes, Chestnut Mountain adds to the adventure with night skiing, terrain parks, and scenic overlooks that showcase sweeping river views. Cozy dining spots and warming areas make it easy to recharge between runs, whether you’re planning a full weekend or a spontaneous winter escape.
Galena itself enhances the experience with its historic downtown, lively Main Street, and variety of things to do in winter. After a day on the mountain, visitors can explore local boutiques, enjoy wine tastings, or dine at inviting restaurants that highlight the town’s character. Outdoor enthusiasts can extend the adventure with winter hiking at nearby preserves or scenic drives through rolling countryside dusted with snow.
Where to Stay for Your Galena Winter Getaway
After a full day of skiing and exploring, Galena’s bed and breakfasts and boutique inns offer a welcome retreat. Properties affiliated with the Midwest Association of Independent Inns provide comfortable accommodations, thoughtful amenities, and personalized service you won’t find at larger hotels. Many are located close to downtown or just a short drive from Chestnut Mountain, making it easy to balance slope time with relaxation.
If you’re planning a winter adventure filled with skiing, small-town charm, and memorable Midwest scenery, Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort and Galena offer a combination that keeps visitors coming back season after season.
Winter in Missoula: Plan the Ultimate Winter Getaway!
Winter in Missoula Brings the Best Adventure Getaways
Winter in Missoula brings a lively blend of mountain scenery, outdoor adventure, and small-town comfort. The season transforms this Montana destination into an appealing mix of snowy fun and cozy moments, perfect for travelers seeking both excitement and relaxation. With crisp air, fresh snowfall, and access to unforgettable winter activities, it is easy to see why a winter adventure in Missoula continues to grow in popularity.
Exploring Missoula in winter is easy – there are endless things to do in Missoula no matter the season! Snowmobile across breathtaking terrain at Lolo Pass, Clearwater National Forest, or the Blue Mountain Recreation Area, where miles of groomed trails and unforgettable views await. Skiers and snowboarders can head to Montana Snowbowl for satisfying runs surrounded by rugged alpine scenery. If you prefer a slower pace, winter hiking or snowshoeing on nearby trails provides a quiet way to enjoy the snow-covered landscape.
Relax at Our Montana Bed and Breakfast
Between mountain outings, Missoula’s welcoming food and drink scene keeps you warm and well fed. Local breweries like Bayern Brewing serve flavorful craft beers, while restaurants around town offer hearty Montana dishes ideal after a day outside. You can warm up even more with a visit to natural hot springs such as Jerry Johnson or Weir Hot Springs, both known for their peaceful setting and soothing water. Ice skating at Glacier Ice Rink, browsing downtown shops, or catching a University of Montana hockey game all add to the season’s fun.
Choosing our Montana Bed and Breakfast as your home base enhances your winter getaway with comfort and thoughtful hospitality. Our guest rooms feature plush bedding, private baths, and appealing touches like jetted tubs or private decks. Each morning begins with a homemade breakfast, from huckleberry Dutch Babies to steak and eggs, served with beautiful views of the Missoula Valley.
With 20 acres of wildlife habitat and direct access to Blue Mountain Recreation Area, our Missoula Bed and Breakfast makes it easy to balance exploration with relaxation, as you enjoy the best of winter in Missoula. After your adventures, unwind with billiards, a glass of wine, or a quiet evening in the lodge-style setting. This inviting inn offers a warm home base for your winter and adventure travel in Missoula.
Winter on the Beaches of Olympic National Park
Best Olympic National Park Beaches for Winter Adventure
Winter transforms the Olympic National Park Beaches into a bold coastal experience defined by powerful surf, shifting skies, and long stretches of sand that feel refreshingly untamed. While many visitors picture snow-covered mountains or rainforest hikes, the Olympic Coast offers an entirely different winter adventure, one that invites you to lean into the elements and experience the park from a new perspective.
From well-known favorites like Rialto Beach and Ruby Beach to quieter stretches of shoreline, the beaches in Olympic National Park deliver front-row views of Pacific storms rolling in from the horizon. Winter waves crash against sea stacks, driftwood gathers in dramatic piles, and seabirds ride gusty winds overhead. With fewer visitors than in summer, the beaches feel expansive and immersive, perfect for travelers who enjoy wide open spaces and dynamic scenery.
Low tide brings opportunities for tidepool exploration and beach combing, even in colder months. Sheltered coves reveal colorful marine life, while smooth stones and agates reward those willing to slow down and scan the shoreline. Stormwatching is a highlight of Olympic National Park in winter, offering a safe and memorable way to witness the power of the ocean without sacrificing comfort or accessibility.
Cozy Lodging Near the Olympic National Park Coast
After a day of adventure along the Olympic National Park Coast, returning to a warm and inviting place to stay makes all the difference. Our Olympic Peninsula vacation rentals are designed for winter travel, offering space to dry out gear, prepare an easy meal, and relax while the wind moves through the trees outside. Many rentals near Port Angeles place you within an easy drive of Rialto Beach, Ruby Beach, and other iconic coastal stops.
Large windows, comfortable living areas, and thoughtful amenities turn each evening into part of the experience. Some properties include hot tubs, fireplaces, and fully equipped kitchens, creating a natural balance between outdoor adventure and indoor comfort. Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, there are lodging options that support both exploration and rest.
Winter on the Olympic National Park Beaches is about embracing contrast, with wild coastal days paired with warm, relaxed nights. If you are planning an adventure getaway this season, the Olympic Coast offers a memorable mix of energy, beauty, and space to explore. Book your winter stay and experience this side of Olympic National Park for yourself.
Winter Skiing & More at Hurricane Ridge, Washington
What to Know About Hurricane Ridge Ski Area
Winter at Hurricane Ridge Ski Area delivers one of the most memorable adventure experiences in Olympic National Park. Located high above Port Angeles, this small, community-driven ski hill combines deep snowfall, classic rope tows, and sweeping alpine views that stretch from jagged Olympic peaks to the Strait of Juan de Fuca. When Hurricane Ridge Road is open, the drive alone sets the tone for a true winter mountain day.
Hurricane Ridge Ski Area feels refreshingly approachable. The terrain offers a balance of wide groomed runs, steeper bowls, and gladed sections that reward confident skiers and riders without the crowds found at larger resorts. With more than 400 inches of annual snowfall, powder days are common, and the relaxed pace makes it easy to focus on fun rather than lift lines.
Winter adventure here extends well beyond skiing. Hurricane Ridge Olympic National Park is the focal point for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the colder months. Meadows above the main parking area provide ideal terrain for beginners, while routes toward Hurricane Hill offer longer outings and panoramic views. Families also gravitate toward the tubing park and snow play areas, which make Hurricane Ridge Washington a well-rounded winter destination.
Vacation Rentals Near Hurricane Ridge Ski Area
Staying nearby makes all the difference when planning a winter adventure at Hurricane Ridge Ski Area. Vacation rentals in Port Angeles and Sequim place you close enough for early starts on the mountain, while keeping you comfortably below the snow line when weather shifts. These homes range from cozy cabins to larger properties designed for families, groups, and pet-friendly travel.
After a day outside, full kitchens, inviting living spaces, and private decks or hot tubs at select homes create a welcome place to unwind. Many rentals feature water or forest views, adding another layer to the experience of Olympic National Park in winter.
With skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, and scenic winter drives all centered around Hurricane Ridge, this area offers an adventure-forward getaway that feels both accessible and special. Pair your mountain days with the right home base, and you have a winter trip worth repeating.
Winter Weekends at the Top Ski Resorts in Minnesota
Best Ski Resorts in Minnesota For Winter Weekends
Winter brings out the bold side of the Midwest, and the best ski resorts in Minnesota prove that adventure thrives when the temperatures drop. With dependable snowfall, varied terrain, and wide open views, Minnesota ski resorts offer a winter experience that appeals to both seasoned skiers and first-timers planning a weekend escape. From dramatic slopes overlooking Lake Superior to accessible ski hills near the Twin Cities, skiing in Minnesota feels both exciting and refreshingly down-to-earth.
Lutsen Mountains leads the way as the largest ski resort in the Midwest, featuring multiple peaks, long runs, and unmatched views of Lake Superior. It is a destination that feels expansive and rewarding for skiers looking to challenge themselves. Afton Alps, Buck Hill, and Welch Village offer easy access for quick winter weekends, while still delivering well-groomed runs and lively ski culture. Spirit Mountain in Duluth blends city energy with elevated terrain, offering night skiing and sweeping lake views that make every run memorable.
Skiing is only part of what makes winter in Minnesota so appealing. Between ski days, travelers can explore winter activities in Minnesota like snowshoeing through state parks, ice fishing on frozen lakes, winter hiking along the North Shore, or catching a local hockey game under the lights. These experiences add variety and depth to any winter adventure weekend.
Cozy Stays Near Minnesota Ski Resorts
After long days on the slopes, comfort matters. Staying at one of the many Bed and Breakfasts in Minnesota adds warmth and personality to a ski getaway. These independently owned properties offer inviting rooms, thoughtful amenities, and hearty breakfasts made with local ingredients. Many are located near popular ski resorts in Minnesota, making it easy to balance adventure with relaxation. Innkeepers often share tips on nearby ski hills, winter trails, and local dining, helping guests experience more than what is listed on a map.
For travelers craving fresh air, outdoor excitement, and a welcoming place to recharge, winter weekends spent at the best ski resorts in Minnesota deliver the perfect mix of adventure and comfort.