
Mad River Glen Ski Area
A skier-owned cooperative with a classic vibe, challenging terrain, and the iconic Single Chairlift. Experience authentic Vermont skiing.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Deep snow for epic skiing

Mad River Glen Ski Area
Best Time
Deep snow for epic skiing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A skier-owned cooperative with a classic vibe, challenging terrain, and the iconic Single Chairlift. Experience authentic Vermont skiing.
"A real classic feeling mountain. The best powder days in Vermont are right here!!! Ski it if you can!"

🎯 Buy Passes Online
Always purchase your ski passes online in advance to secure your spot!
⛷️ Ski It If You Can
Embrace the challenge! This mountain is for experienced skiers who can handle its natural terrain.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Legendary Single Chair
Base Area
Ride America's last original single chairlift for a nostalgic and scenic journey up the mountain.

Challenging In-Bounds Terrain
Throughout the mountain
Discover steep, natural terrain perfect for advanced skiers seeking an authentic challenge.

Fall Foliage Lift Ride
Single Chairlift
Experience breathtaking Vermont autumn colors from a unique vantage point on a scenic lift ride.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Classic Ski Experience
Timing is Everything for Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Buy Passes Online
Always purchase your ski passes online in advance to secure your spot!
⛷️ Ski It If You Can
Embrace the challenge! This mountain is for experienced skiers who can handle its natural terrain.
🚗 Park Wisely
Parking can be tricky, especially after snowstorms. Be prepared for potential pull-outs.
🥾 Snowshoe Rentals Available
Rent snowshoes for $17 to trek up the mountain and enjoy beautiful views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Buy Passes Online
Always purchase your ski passes online in advance to secure your spot!
⛷️ Ski It If You Can
Embrace the challenge! This mountain is for experienced skiers who can handle its natural terrain.
🚗 Park Wisely
Parking can be tricky, especially after snowstorms. Be prepared for potential pull-outs.
🥾 Snowshoe Rentals Available
Rent snowshoes for $17 to trek up the mountain and enjoy beautiful views.
☕ Casual Lodge Vibe
Enjoy affordable food and a friendly atmosphere at the base lodge.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Mad River Glen for its authentic, old-school ski experience and challenging terrain, calling it a 'classic feeling mountain' and one of the 'last few non corporate ski resorts.' The affordable food and friendly staff are also highlights. However, conditions can be variable, and the mountain is best suited for experienced skiers.
"A real classic feeling mountain. We went towards the end of the season (mid March) and the temps were mid 50s. The conditions weren't the best, but the snow and trails were great regardless. The food was good and cheaper than most other mountains I've been to and the staff were all friendly and helpful."
Nick L
"One of the last few non corporate ski resorts left here!! Besides Sugar Bush IMO. The best powder days in Vermont are right here!!! Ski it if you can!"
SD P
"Fall foliage scenic single chair lift ride is a must. $20 for a ticket that you can buy in person at the window and have your ride from 10am -2pm on the weekend during the season."
Anna M.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mad River Glen is located in Fayston, Vermont. It's accessible by car, with the nearest major airports being Burlington International Airport (BTV) and Albany International Airport (ALB). Many visitors drive from Quebec, Canada, with the drive being around 3 hours.
The ski area is well-marked once you are in the Mad River Valley. Follow local signage. The drive itself offers scenic Vermont landscapes.
Parking can be challenging, especially after significant snowfall. Visitors are advised to park wisely and be prepared for potential pull-outs. Community members are often willing to help.
Public transportation options directly to Mad River Glen are limited. It's primarily a destination for those traveling by car. Consider ride-sharing if you're not driving.
The drive from Quebec to Mad River Glen is approximately 3 hours, offering scenic views of the Vermont countryside.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Lift ticket prices vary by season and day. It's highly recommended to purchase your ski passes online in advance to secure your spot and potentially get better rates.
While window purchases might be possible, buying online is strongly advised to guarantee access and avoid disappointment, especially on busy days.
Discounts may be available for certain groups or through online promotions. Check the official Mad River Glen website for the most current information on pricing and potential deals.
Operating hours vary depending on the season and day of the week. For the foliage lift rides, the first chair is at 10 AM and the last chair is loaded at 2:30 PM. Ski lift hours are typically from morning until late afternoon during the ski season.
No, Mad River Glen is one of the last few non-corporate, skier-owned cooperative ski resorts in North America, offering a unique, community-focused experience.
🎫 ⛷️ Onsite Experience
Mad River Glen is renowned for its challenging, natural, and often steep in-bounds terrain. It's a favorite among advanced skiers who appreciate its authentic ski experience.
Mad River Glen is generally not recommended for beginner skiers due to its challenging terrain and lack of extensive beginner-specific areas. It's best suited for intermediate to expert skiers.
The Single Chair is an iconic, original chairlift that offers a nostalgic ride up the mountain. It's a must-do experience for its historical significance and scenic views.
Yes, you can rent snowshoes for approximately $17. Ski rentals might be available through local shops in the Mad River Valley area.
When the clouds clear, you can expect stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Vermont landscape. The fall foliage season offers particularly spectacular scenery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Mad River Glen offers casual dining at its base lodge. The food is generally considered good and more affordable than at many other ski resorts.
Compared to other ski mountains, the food at Mad River Glen is noted for being cheaper and offering good value.
Specific dietary options can vary. It's best to check with the lodge staff upon arrival for the most current menu and available choices.
While not explicitly stated, many visitors bring their own snacks. However, supporting the lodge by purchasing food contributes to the cooperative's operations.
The lodge has a classic, old-school vibe, reflecting the mountain's history and community-focused ethos. It's a friendly and casual place to relax.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic views, especially during fall foliage. The Single Chairlift itself is a classic photo opportunity. Don't miss capturing the challenging terrain and the unique vintage feel of the mountain.
Early morning or late afternoon light can provide beautiful golden hour shots. For foliage, midday can offer vibrant colors, but be mindful of crowds.
Yes, you can take photos from the Single Chairlift, but be cautious with your equipment. The ride offers unique perspectives of the mountain and surrounding valley.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. If you're a skier, a GoPro or similar action camera can capture dynamic shots of the terrain.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the fall for a scenic foliage lift ride, which is a more accessible activity for all ages. If your family enjoys a classic, no-frills ski experience and can navigate intermediate to expert slopes, Mad River Glen offers a memorable outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
While lift tickets are an investment, the overall vibe and the focus on the skiing experience rather than luxury amenities can appeal to budget-conscious skiers who prioritize challenging runs and a classic mountain feel. Renting snowshoes is also a budget-friendly way to enjoy the mountain's scenery.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the challenging, natural terrain that defines the mountain's character. The vintage feel of the resort and the stunning Vermont landscapes provide endless photographic possibilities. Be prepared for variable weather conditions to get the best shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mad River Glen Cooperative Difference
The cooperative structure fosters a strong sense of community among its patrons. Visitors often describe a welcoming atmosphere where fellow skiers are friendly and helpful, embodying the mountain's motto, 'Ski It If You Can.' This shared passion for skiing creates a distinct and memorable environment.
This focus on the pure skiing experience means you won't find the typical resort bells and whistles. Instead, you get unadulterated, challenging terrain and a genuine connection to the sport's roots. It's a place that appeals to those who value tradition and the thrill of the mountain itself.
Navigating Mad River Glen's Terrain
Key areas to explore include Lisbon, known for its steepness, and Upper Birdland, offering a more technical descent. The Fall Line is another popular choice for those seeking a thrilling ride. Even the trails that are groomed are often challenging due to the mountain's natural contours.
For those looking for a different kind of adventure, Mad River Glen also offers opportunities for snowshoeing. Renting snowshoes allows you to ascend the mountain and enjoy the stunning Vermont vistas, providing a unique perspective even when you're not skiing.
The Iconic Single Chairlift
Riding the Single Chair is an experience in itself. It offers spectacular panoramic views of the Mad River Valley and the surrounding Green Mountains. During the fall, the foliage lift rides are particularly popular, allowing visitors to soak in the vibrant autumn colors from a breathtaking vantage point.
While it may not be the fastest lift, its charm lies in its simplicity and its connection to the mountain's past. It's a must-do for any visitor, offering a moment of reflection and appreciation for the enduring spirit of Mad River Glen.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit