The Mad River Valley is known for its scenic hikes and epic ski runs, but there’s so much more to explore beyond the usual outdoor activities. From fly fishing in pristine mountain streams to horseback riding through rolling hills, there are plenty of ways to explore the great outdoors. A stay at our Vermont Lodging puts you right in the heart of it all, giving you the perfect home base to experience the best of the season.
Fly Fishing: Cast a Line in the Mad River
Spring is a fantastic time to fly fish in the Mad River, as warming waters bring wild brown, brook, and rainbow trout out of their winter hiding spots. The river’s crystal-clear waters and healthy aquatic ecosystem make it a favorite among anglers. Local outfitters like The Silver Trout Fly Fishing Shop have everything you need for a successful day on the river.
Horseback Riding: Explore the Valley from the Saddle
One of the most memorable ways to take in Vermont’s countryside is on horseback. At Vermont Icelandic Horse Farm in Fayston, you can ride through forests, open meadows, and scenic trails on gentle Icelandic horses, a breed known for their smooth gaits and friendly nature. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, the farm offers a variety of trail rides, from short excursions to longer treks through the Mad River Valley’s rolling hills. If you’re visiting during the spring, you’ll be treated to blooming wildflowers, rushing streams, and the fresh scent of pine and earth as you explore Vermont’s hidden corners from a unique vantage point.
Birdwatching: Spot Rare and Beautiful Species
As the valley bursts into bloom, migratory birds return, making spring an ideal time for birdwatching.
Lincoln Gap Road, a steep and scenic mountain road that leads to the Long Trail, is the place to go for a chance to spot high-elevation species that are harder to find elsewhere. Here, you can spot Golden-Crowned Kinglets, Blackpoll Warblers, Magnolia and Nashville Warblers, and the elusive Bicknell’s Thrush, a rare, high-altitude songbird.
For a more leisurely birding experience, visit the Mad River Greenway-West, a peaceful, unpaved trail along the Mad River. As you stroll through wetlands, shrubby thickets, and open grasslands, look for American Redstarts, Yellow Warblers, Warbling and Red-Eyed Vireos, and Great Blue Herons. The river itself is also home to Belted Kingfishers and Ospreys, adding to the diversity of birds you can spot along the way.
Tee Up Some Fun: Golf and Disc Golf at Sugarbush
For those who prefer their outdoor adventures on the fairway, Sugarbush Golf Club offers a stunning 18-hole course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. With mountain vistas at every turn, it’s one of Vermont’s most scenic golf courses. If the weather isn’t cooperating, you can still work on your swing at Sugarbush’s golf simulation suites inside the Sugarbush Health & Recreation Center (SHaRC). These high-tech simulators let you practice on world-class courses, providing a fun and interactive way to stay on top of your game.
If disc golf is more your style, Sugarbush’s course offers an exciting challenge with a mix of wooded and open fairways. Winding through 18 holes across the base area and into the wooded lower trails, this scenic course provides a mix of open fairways, technical wooded shots, and elevation changes that make for an exciting and dynamic round.
Unlike traditional golf, disc golf requires nothing more than a few well-aimed throws, and if you don’t have your own discs, Sugarbush’s Adventure Gear Shop in the Gate House at Lincoln Peak has you covered with a wide selection of Innova discs for purchase. Best of all? The course is open 24/7, meaning you can enjoy a casual round at sunrise, an afternoon challenge with friends, or even a quiet evening game beneath Vermont’s starry sky.
Paddle the Mad River
In the spring, as the mountain snow melts, the Mad River truly lives up to its name. With fresh runoff, the river becomes a prime destination for whitewater enthusiasts, offering exciting rapids and technical sections for experienced paddlers. The Lower Mad River, in particular, has been a favorite among Vermont paddlers for decades, providing a mix of Class II to IV rapids that challenge kayakers and canoeists alike.
If you’re an experienced whitewater paddler looking for an adrenaline rush, this is the time to go. Be sure to check water levels and safety conditions, and always paddle with a buddy. Local outfitters can also provide guidance on the best sections to tackle during peak runoff.
Chasing Waterfalls: Visit Warren Falls
Located just south of Warren on Route 100, Warren Falls is famous for its emerald-green pools, smooth rock formations, and cascading falls. With easy parking and short trails leading to multiple viewing spots, it’s a great stop to soak in Vermont’s natural beauty before continuing your Mad River adventure. While the water may still be chilly in early spring, the area is perfect for a scenic picnic, photography, or simply enjoying the peaceful sounds of rushing water. With easy parking and short trails leading to multiple viewing spots, it’s a great stop to soak in Vermont’s natural beauty before continuing your Mad River adventure.
Star Gazing: See the Milky Way in Vermont’s Dark Skies
As night falls, the Mad River Valley transforms into a stargazer’s paradise. Thanks to minimal light pollution, you’ll be able to see an astonishing number of stars, planets, and even the Milky Way on clear nights. Some of the best stargazing spots include Lincoln Gap Road, Blueberry Lake, and anywhere away from town lights. Bring a blanket, lie back, and enjoy the cosmic show.
End the Day with a Campfire Under the Stars
After a full day of Mad River adventures, there’s nothing better than gathering around a fire, sharing stories, and unwinding under Vermont’s starlit sky. Warren Lodge and White Horse Lodge both offer outdoor fire pits for a welcoming space to kick back and relax. Wherever you choose to stay, you’ll find plenty of ways to relax and embrace the simple joys of spring in Vermont.
Want to take it up a notch? Bring along some local craft beer or Vermont cider, and toast to a perfect day in the Mad River Valley.
Your Vermont Adventure Awaits
The Mad River Valley is more than just a ski destination. Whether you’re reeling in a trout from the Mad River, playing disc golf with friends, or enjoying a peaceful night under a sky full of stars, the valley offers something special for every kind of traveler.
Start planning your Mad River adventure today and make the most of spring in the Green Mountains!