If you are planning a Vermont honeymoon, the Mad River Valley in New England offers the perfect setting to begin your life together. Surrounded by the Green Mountains, this is where quiet mornings, scenic drives, and meaningful moments unfold naturally. A honeymoon in Vermont gives you space to slow down after the excitement of your wedding and focus on what matters most: each other.
Days here can be as adventurous or relaxed as you choose. Hike to the summit of Mt. Abraham for sweeping mountain views, explore scenic backroads dotted with covered bridges, or paddle the Mad River together. Couples who love the outdoors will quickly understand why this region ranks among the best honeymoon destinations in the USA. For something truly unforgettable, book a glider flight over the valley and take in the landscape from above.
In town, enjoy farm-to-table dining in Waitsfield or Warren, browse local galleries, or visit the farmers market for fresh Vermont flavors. Every experience adds to the charm of your Vermont romantic getaway. There are so many fantastic things to do in Vermont for couples!
Your lodging plays an important role in your Vermont honeymoon. This historic and romantic Bed and Breakfast offers privacy, comfort, and thoughtful hospitality designed with couples in mind. Many guests return year after year for romantic getaways in Vermont, trusting this space for anniversaries, proposals, and milestone celebrations.
Start your mornings with a breakfast sourced locally and prepared with care. Spend afternoons strolling the gardens, relaxing on the porch, or enjoying time together in your suite. To elevate your stay, consider one of our Vermont honeymoon packages, complete with chilled bubbly, roses, and indulgent couples’ massages.
If you are searching for a Vermont couples getaway that blends mountain adventure with refined comfort, the Mad River Valley is ready to welcome you. Book your Vermont honeymoon today and begin your next chapter in one of the most beautiful corners of the country.
If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Vermont, you might be picturing mountain views, covered bridges, charming villages, and vibrant local culture. The Mad River Valley brings all of these experiences together in one remarkable destination. Centered on the towns of Waitsfield and Warren, this region offers a unique blend of outdoor recreation, agricultural heritage, artistic expression, and small-town character, making it one of the most rewarding places to explore in Vermont.
A drive through the valley reveals working farms, scenic country roads, and sweeping views of the Green Mountains. Along the way, visitors discover local markets, independent businesses, waterfalls, and some of the state’s most beautiful landscapes. Whether you are planning a day trip or an extended adventure getaway, there is no shortage of things to do in Vermont.
Outdoor enthusiasts can spend time at Sugarbush Resort, where year-round activities include hiking, scenic chairlift rides, golf, and winter skiing across two mountain peaks. Nearby, Mad River Glen offers a distinctive Vermont experience with its skier-owned cooperative model and historic single chairlift. The mountain’s commitment to preserving traditional skiing culture has made it a favorite among generations of visitors.
Waitsfield serves as the cultural heart of the valley, featuring locally owned shops, galleries, restaurants, and community events. The Waitsfield Farmers Market brings together regional growers, artisans, and food vendors, creating a lively gathering place throughout the warmer months. Art lovers can explore Mad River Valley Arts and Bundy Modern, while food enthusiasts can enjoy seasonal menus inspired by Vermont farms and producers.
The Mad River itself is another major attraction. Popular destinations such as Warren Falls and Moss Glen Falls offer beautiful scenery and opportunities to enjoy Vermont’s natural beauty. Cyclists are drawn to quiet roads that wind past historic covered bridges, rolling farmland, and mountain vistas. In autumn, the valley becomes one of the best places to visit in Vermont, as vibrant foliage spreads from the valley floor to the surrounding ridgelines.
Staying at a Bed and Breakfast in Vermont truly makes your getaway even more special. West Hill House B&B provides an ideal home base for exploring the region. Located on a peaceful hillside with views of the Green Mountains, the property offers easy access to Waitsfield, Warren, hiking trails, local dining, and outdoor recreation. Guests enjoy comfortable accommodations, a homemade breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere that reflects the spirit of Vermont. Book your stay today and discover why the Mad River Valley remains one of the best places to visit in Vermont.
The Mad River Valley Vermont is a year-round destination where mountain landscapes, welcoming communities, and outdoor recreation come together to create an unforgettable adventure. Centered around Waitsfield, VT, and neighboring Warren, the valley offers visitors countless opportunities to experience the natural beauty and local character that make this corner of Vermont so special. Whether you are planning a weekend escape or an extended vacation, there is no shortage of memorable things to do in Vermont.
From hiking scenic mountain trails to exploring covered bridges and local farms, every day brings a new adventure. The nearby Green Mountains offer miles of hiking and biking trails, while Sugarbush Resort offers year-round activities, including golf, disc golf, rock climbing, swimming, and tennis. The historic Long Trail passes through the surrounding mountains, offering hikers panoramic views of the valley and beyond.
Beyond the mountains, the Mad River, Vermont area is known for its charming villages, locally owned businesses, farmers markets, artisan food producers, and scenic drives. Visitors can follow self-guided waterfall tours, discover picturesque covered bridges, sample Vermont cheeses, or spend an afternoon kayaking with local outfitters. Birdwatching, mountain biking, and swimming in natural pools such as the Great Eddy add even more opportunities to experience the valley’s outdoor beauty. It’s by far one of the best places to visit in Vermont!
A stay at West Hill House B&B places you in the center of it all. This welcoming Vermont Bed and Breakfast offers nine comfortable guest rooms, beautifully maintained gardens, a freshly prepared multi-course breakfast each morning, and personalized concierge service to help you make the most of your visit. Whether you need recommendations for hiking trails, dinner reservations, or scenic driving routes, the innkeepers are happy to share their local knowledge.
After a full day exploring what to do in Vermont, return to a peaceful setting where you can relax with a glass of wine or local beer before planning the next day’s adventure. From mountain recreation and scenic drives to charming villages and exceptional hospitality, the Mad River Valley offers an authentic Vermont experience that keeps visitors returning throughout the year. Book your lodging first.
Exploring waterfalls in Vermont offers a rewarding way to experience the natural beauty of the East, especially for travelers seeking an adventure-focused itinerary. From scenic roadside stops to forested hiking trails, the Mad River Valley offers access to some of the best waterfalls in Vermont, each with its own distinct setting and seasonal appeal.
Warren Falls, VT, is one of the most convenient and popular stops, located just minutes from the Inn. Known for its cascading tiers and deep swimming holes, it is a favorite during warmer months. Visiting early in the morning or late in the evening provides a quieter experience, as midday crowds can quickly fill the limited parking area. This is always one of the best things to do in the Mad River Valley!
For those planning a scenic drive, the Granville Gulf Reservation is a worthwhile addition. Within this expansive natural area, Moss Glen Falls drops approximately 80 feet into a rugged gulf, creating one of the more dramatic Vermont waterfalls along Route 100. Nearby, Texas Falls in the Green Mountain National Forest features a series of cascades accessible via an easy loop trail through mixed hardwood forest.
Those looking to pair waterfalls with charming towns should consider Middlebury Falls. This wide, block-style waterfall is set within a walkable downtown, with viewing points from both a pedestrian bridge and Riverfront Park. Bartlett Falls, located along the New Haven River, is another popular destination, especially for those interested in Vermont swimming holes during the summer.
A stay at a Bed and Breakfast in Vermont places you within easy reach of these natural attractions while offering a comfortable base for exploration. Located in the Mad River Valley, the Inn provides thoughtfully appointed guest rooms with premium linens, en suite bathrooms, and inviting sitting areas designed for rest after a day of hiking or sightseeing.
Each morning begins with a freshly prepared breakfast featuring both sweet and savory options, along with locally roasted coffee or tea. Guests also have access to curated maps and personalized recommendations, making it easy to plan visits to nearby hikes in Vermont and waterfalls. This B&B is ideal for couples’ getaways in Vermont!
Whether you are exploring forest trails, scenic drives, or classic Vermont swimming holes, this region offers a well-rounded adventure experience. Secure your stay and begin planning your itinerary to discover the best places to visit in Vermont.
For couples who want a meaningful commitment without the expectations of a traditional wedding, choosing to elope in Vermont offers a beautiful alternative. Vermont has a way of making celebrations feel personal. With four distinct seasons, scenic landscapes, and welcoming small towns, it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the best places to elope in New England.
Elopements today are about intention, not scale. Vermont supports that mindset with settings that range from gardens and meadows to mountain views and historic barns. Whether you picture a quiet ceremony surrounded by fall color, a snow-covered winter backdrop, or a summer celebration under open skies, Vermont offers couples space to focus on their story.
One of the reasons couples choose to elope in Vermont is simplicity. Instead of coordinating dozens of vendors, Vermont elopement packages allow couples to enjoy the experience without stress. From personalized ceremonies to on-site lodging, everything is planned with care so you can stay present on your day. One of the best places to elope is at the West Hill House B&B, where every elopement is designed to feel thoughtful and stress-free.
At West Hill House B&B, a quaint Inn in Warren, VT, they offer a complete elopement experience in one location. Couples enjoy two nights of lodging, a customized ceremony with an experienced officiant, seasonal flowers, digital photography, a custom cake, and a celebratory toast with keepsake flutes. For larger gatherings, we assist with trusted local vendors and can accommodate group lodging for guests.
Beyond the ceremony, there are so many things to do in the Mad River Valley before or after your big day. Celebrate with a glider ride over the Green Mountains, explore nearby villages, or enjoy farm-to-table dining together. Many couples turn their elopement into a longer stay, easing into married life with time to explore and relax.
Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony or a small celebration, eloping in Vermont allows your commitment to feel both personal and memorable. If you’re just beginning to plan your Vermont elopement, be sure to consider a charming Bed and Breakfast in the stunning Mad River Valley.
Couples searching for Vermont wedding venues often want more than a scenic backdrop. They want a setting that feels personal, flexible, and thoughtfully designed for a range of celebrations. Located in the Mad River Valley at the base of the Green Mountains, there’s a charming Vermont Bed and Breakfast that offers an experience tailored to couples planning intimate weddings, micro celebrations, and meaningful weekend gatherings.
This historic Vermont Bed and Breakfast sits on nine acres, providing a sense of privacy while still feeling welcoming and relaxed. Couples appreciate having multiple ceremony options on one property. Outdoor ceremonies can take place in garden spaces, open meadows, or near the pond, while the classic red barn offers a warm and inviting space for receptions, dining, and dancing. These options make it easy to plan a wedding day that flows naturally from ceremony to celebration.
One of the reasons couples choose this property when comparing small wedding venues in Vermont is the ability to host everything in one place. From the ceremony to the final toast, the setting feels cohesive and intentional, without the stress of moving guests between locations.
Having lodging on-site is a major advantage when planning a wedding weekend. Couples can relax knowing that guests are just steps away from the celebration, and there’s no rush at the end of the night. After the wedding, a romantic guest suite awaits, offering a quiet space to unwind and enjoy the first moments of married life.
West Hill House B&B is well-suited for weddings of up to 50 guests and is especially popular with couples planning elopements and small weddings. Flexible food options allow smaller groups to enjoy in-house dining, while larger celebrations can work with trusted local caterers familiar with the property.
Beyond the wedding day, couples and guests can enjoy everything the Mad River Valley offers, from hiking and local towns to breweries and seasonal activities. This makes the Inn an ideal weekend wedding venue for couples traveling from out of state who want their celebration to feel like a complete Vermont experience.
Winter transforms the Green Mountains into a storybook setting, making it an ideal season for romantic getaways in Vermont. The Mad River Valley offers couples both outdoor adventure and quiet moments together. Snow-covered landscapes and charming villages provide endless ways to enjoy the season.
For couples who love to ski, Sugarbush Resort is one of the top winter destinations in the region. With over 100 trails spread across two mountain peaks, Sugarbush delivers a dynamic experience for all skill levels. Mad River Glen is another nearby favorite, offering classic New England skiing and a welcoming apres-ski culture. Beyond downhill skiing, winter opens the door to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing at local favorites like Blueberry Lake and Olés Cross Country, as well as guided moonlit snowshoe tours through ClearWater Sports.
Between adventures, the Mad River Valley invites couples to slow down and explore. A covered bridge tour is a memorable way to experience the region’s character, especially in winter when these landmarks are topped with snow. Shopping in Warren adds a local touch, from the Warren Store to Vermont-made treats at the 5th Quarter Butcher and Provisions. Early spring visitors can also enjoy tastings along the Vermont Cheese Trail.
On your romantic getaways in Vermont, first and foremost, you should choose the right place to stay. A top-rated Vermont bed and breakfast in Warren provides an inviting retreat just minutes from Sugarbush. Historic charm, open mountain views, and thoughtfully designed guest rooms create an atmosphere that feels relaxed and personal.
Each morning at West Hill House B&B begins with a freshly prepared multi-course breakfast, designed to fuel winter adventures or leisurely mornings by the fire. Guests can also enjoy amenities like on-site trails, cozy common areas, and optional romantic packages for anniversaries or special occasions.
Winter is the perfect time to reconnect in the Green Mountains of the Mad River Valley. Start planning your romantic getaway and book one of the most memorable winter escapes in Vermont today.
Vermont fall colors begin their transformation in early September, when the native sugar maples across the state start turning from green to gold, orange, and deep crimson. The display builds gradually over several weeks, moving from the higher elevations down into the valleys, and it typically holds its peak through early to mid-October. Few places capture that shift better than the Mad River Valley, where rolling hills, working farms, and forested peaks create some of the most photographed foliage scenery in the state.
At West Hill House B&B in Warren, guests find themselves inside that scenery rather than just passing through it. A row of sugar maples lines our property, and the porch and garden paths offer views of the changing hillside without ever leaving the grounds.
There is no single date every year, since Vermont’s foliage timeline depends on temperature and rainfall. In the Mad River Valley, color typically starts appearing in early September at higher elevations and moves into the valley through late September and October. Early to mid-October is usually the strongest window for peak color here, though it shifts slightly from year to year. Checking a current Vermont foliage map before you travel is the best way to time a trip around the display.
The 36-mile Mad River Byway threads through Middlesex, Moretown, Waitsfield, Fayston, Warren, and Granville, passing covered bridges, farmland, and mountain views along the way. It is an easy half-day route for anyone who wants a relaxed introduction to the valley. For a shorter loop with more stops, the Bragg Hill Loop covers classic Vermont countryside in less time, while the West Hill Loop climbs toward Lincoln Gap for some of the more dramatic mountain views in the area.
Hikers can pick up a section of the Long Trail, which runs 272 miles through the Green Mountains, or head up Camel’s Hump for summit views over a valley full of color. Cyclists often choose the five-mile Moretown Common Road loop, and for something different entirely, a glider flight with Sugarbush Soaring puts the whole canopy below you.
West Hill House B&B sits on a quiet hillside just outside the village of Warren, close enough to reach the Mad River Byway or Sugarbush Resort in minutes, but removed from the traffic that builds up along the busiest foliage routes during peak weekends. Guests can spend the morning on a scenic drive and come back to a private pond, on-site massage, and gardens that are still showing color of their own.
Breakfast leans into the season with apples, cranberries, and pumpkin worked into the morning menu, and afternoons bring fresh-baked treats alongside a rotating selection of Vermont wine and craft beer. With nine guest rooms and a Select Registry designation, the inn is built around the kind of unhurried hospitality that fall in Vermont calls for.
Fall books up quickly across the Mad River Valley, so reserving a room ahead of peak season matters more here than almost any other time of year. If you are planning a fall getaway built around Vermont’s foliage, book your stay at West Hill House B&B and settle into a home base that is already surrounded by color.
When is peak fall foliage in Vermont?
Peak foliage in the Mad River Valley usually falls in early to mid-October, though the exact timing shifts each year based on weather.
Where can you see the best fall colors in Vermont?
The Mad River Byway, Bragg Hill Loop, and West Hill Loop offer some of the most scenic drives, while Camel’s Hump and the Long Trail provide rewarding hiking views.
Where should I stay in Vermont for fall foliage?
The Mad River Valley near Warren puts you close to scenic byways and hiking trails while staying removed from the busiest traffic. West Hill House B&B offers a quiet hillside setting with views of the season right from the property.
Sugarbush Resort is widely known for winter sports, but summer reveals a different side of this Vermont destination. Set in the Mad River Valley, the resort transitions into a mountain landscape filled with fresh air, open trails, and a wide range of outdoor activities. A summer visit offers the chance to experience Sugarbush Resort from a new perspective, where hiking, biking, and scenic views define the pace of each day.
Hiking is one of the most popular ways to explore the area. Trails at Lincoln Peak range from short, accessible loops to more demanding climbs, such as the Castle Rock Summit route. Scenic lift rides add flexibility, allowing visitors to ride up and hike down or create a customized route. Mountain biking is equally prominent, with lift-served downhill trails designed for experienced riders, along with rental options for those who prefer a more relaxed ride.
Golf is another highlight during the summer in Vermont. The Sugarbush Resort Golf Club, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., features an 18-hole course shaped by the natural terrain of the Green Mountains. Disc golf provides a casual alternative, with a wooded course located near the base area. Heading to Sugarbush in the warmer months is one of the best things to do in Vermont!
West Hill House B&B offers convenient access to Sugarbush Resort while providing a comfortable and welcoming place to stay. Located just minutes from the resort, this Sugarbush Bed and Breakfast combines historic character with thoughtful amenities. Guests can start the day with a freshly prepared breakfast before heading out to explore hiking trails, schedule a tee time, or visit nearby dining options.
The property features nine guest rooms, each designed for relaxation after a day outdoors. Common spaces, including a sunroom and gardens, provide quiet areas to unwind. Innkeepers are available to assist with local recommendations, helping guests make the most of their summer itinerary in the Mad River Valley. It’s the perfect place for a couple’s getaway!
From outdoor recreation to local dining and seasonal events, Sugarbush Resort, Vermont, offers a well-rounded summer experience. Booking a stay nearby ensures easy access to the area’s activities while maintaining a comfortable retreat at the end of the day.
Snowshoeing in Vermont is one of the most rewarding ways to experience winter in the Green Mountains. Flexible, approachable, and well-suited for all ability levels, snowshoeing allows travelers to explore terrain that feels quiet and untouched, even during peak winter months. The Mad River Valley stands out as a premier destination for winter adventure, offering access to scenic trails, guided experiences, and protected forest land.
The region features a wide variety of snowshoeing trails, from gentle routes near village centers to backcountry terrain within the Green Mountain National Forest. Popular routes include sections of the Long Trail, the Catamount Trail, and lesser known paths that wind through forests and open meadows. Many visitors also enjoy snowshoe trails located just steps from their lodging, making it easy to explore without driving far.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, guided outings with Clearwater Sports offer an excellent way to discover snowshoeing in Vermont. Local guides lead small groups through unmarked terrain and quiet winter landscapes, adjusting pace and difficulty based on experience. These tours often include naturalist insights, animal tracking, and seasonal highlights that deepen the connection to the land. Options like moonlight headlamp tours and adventures featuring the locally invented Mad River Rocket add a sense of excitement to the experience.
After a full day on the trails, a comfortable place to return to makes all the difference. A historic Bed and Breakfast in Vermont, located in the village of Warren, provides a peaceful home base close to Sugarbush and many of the area’s best snowshoeing trails. Guests enjoy warm shared spaces, a welcoming atmosphere, and easy access to outdoor recreation.
Each morning begins with a multi-course breakfast designed to fuel winter adventures. Hot coffee, hearty dishes, and thoughtful hospitality set the tone for another day of exploration. If you’re seeking an adventure with snowshoeing in Vermont, along with a cozy mountain stay, West Hill House B&B creates a winter getaway worth planning around.
If you are searching for where to stay in Vermont for a meaningful escape together, our Vermont Bed and Breakfast in New England offers the ideal setting. Surrounded by the beauty of the Green Mountains and tucked along a quiet country lane in Warren, this is where couples come to slow down, reconnect, and experience the very best of the Mad River Valley.
Every season brings new opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Spend your days exploring scenic backroads, covered bridges, and charming villages. Discover the best things to do in the Mad River Valley, from hiking and biking to skiing at Sugarbush or Mad River Glen. Sample craft beverages, farm-to-table dining, and specialty foods made in Vermont. Whether you prefer outdoor excursions or cozy afternoons indoors, this region offers something for every couple.
Choosing the right lodging in Vermont makes all the difference. Our historic Bed and Breakfast in Vermont blends timeless New England charm with modern comfort. With nine uniquely appointed guest rooms and suites, you will find inviting spaces featuring pillow-top beds, private en-suite baths, gas fireplaces, and jetted tubs.
Beyond your room, enjoy shared spaces like the library, sunroom, and living room, perfect for relaxing with a glass of wine or a favorite book. Our beautifully landscaped nine-acre property offers perennial gardens and peaceful corners for quiet walks or conversation.
Enhance your couples getaway with our Luxurious Pampering package, complete with flowers, bubbly, Vermont chocolates, cozy robes, massages, and a romantic dinner for two. Each morning begins with a thoughtfully prepared multi-course breakfast that sets the tone for another day of exploration.
When you are deciding where to stay in Vermont, choose an experience that blends connection, comfort, and access to the best things to do in the Mad River Valley. Book your Vermont Bed and Breakfast stay today and start planning your next unforgettable couples retreat.
Moss Glen Falls stands out as one of the best waterfalls in Vermont, offering a rewarding combination of accessibility, scenic beauty, and a well-maintained trail. Located just outside Stowe, this destination is ideal for travelers looking to experience Vermont waterfalls without committing to a long or strenuous hike.
The trail to Moss Glen Falls, VT, begins at a small parking area along Moss Glen Falls Road. From there, a short path leads through wetlands and forest, with boardwalk sections that help preserve the natural landscape. Within about a quarter mile, visitors reach a viewing area that reveals the full height of the falls as water drops roughly 125 feet down a steep rock face. During periods of snowmelt or after rainfall, the flow becomes especially powerful, creating one of the most dramatic waterfall views in the region.
While the main overlook is the highlight, those interested in extending their time outdoors can continue along the trail into Putnam State Forest. This area offers a deeper look at Vermont hiking trails, with additional opportunities to explore wooded terrain and follow the brook upstream. Waterfall chasing is just one of the best things to do in the Mad River Valley!
After a day visiting Moss Glen Falls and other nearby attractions, returning to a Vermont Bed and Breakfast provides a comfortable and well-appointed retreat. Located in the Mad River Valley, West Hill House B&B offers easy access to waterfalls in Vermont while maintaining a quiet, country setting. It’s a lovely place for a couple’s getaway in Vermont!
Each guest room is individually designed and includes en suite bathrooms, premium linens, and thoughtful amenities that support a restful stay. Guests can unwind in the common areas, stroll through the landscaped grounds, or relax in outdoor spaces such as the gazebo or the pond area.
Mornings begin with a freshly prepared breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients, along with coffee or tea. The Inn also provides helpful guidance on planning visits to the best waterfalls in Vermont, nearby scenic drives, and additional places to visit.
Whether you are planning a focused hiking trip or adding a scenic stop to your itinerary, Moss Glen Falls remains one of the most memorable things to do in 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.