The mountain, at a glance
A co-op owned, skiers-only cult classic with a single chair, minimal grooming and some of the most challenging natural terrain in North America.
Co-op ownership, the single chair and natural terrain make this a distinctive Vermont ski experience.
Skiable acres
115
Vertical drop
2,037 ft
Trails
54
Lifts
5
Who's it for?
Plan your first day
Best for skiers who enjoy challenging, less-groomed terrain and a traditional mountain atmosphere.
Mad River Glen is skiers only: snowboarding is not permitted. Natural-snow coverage varies.
Know before you go
⛷️ Skiers only
Mad River Glen does not allow snowboards. Ski it if you can — the Single Chair is iconic.
Aprés-ski & local pours
Scene: Classic ski bum
Local picks — hours change seasonally, so check before you go.
Our experience there
If you want the most pure, hardcore, retro ski experience on the East Coast, Mad River Glen is standard-setting. Their famous tagline "Ski It If You Can" is no joke—this place has some of the absolute tightest glades, gnarliest moguls, and steepest natural drops you will find anywhere. Riding up their iconic Single Chair feels like stepping right back into the 1960s. The cooperative, skier-owned community vibe in the base lodge is incredible, and the food in the cafeteria is actually reasonably priced. That said, there are two major things to keep in mind: first, they strictly BAN snowboards, so this is a skiers-only mountain; second, they rely almost entirely on natural snowfall, meaning conditions depend heavily on what mother nature delivers. But on a fresh powder day, Mad River Glen is pure paradise.
Where to stay
Base yourself in Waitsfield or Warren for valley inns and easy access to nearby dining.
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