Mad River Glen has very loyal skiers. So loyal in fact, they actually own the resort itself. The resort's foundations are built on the appreciation and almost-cult like devotion of its skiers to its slopes, which makes it fitting enough that it is the country's only non-profit, cooperative-owned ski area. With practically no artificial snowmaking, no fancy condos and in proudly boasting one of the last two surviving single chairlifts in the country, Mad River Glen epitomizes the fun and fury of old fashioned style skiing. The resort embraces its unique role, providing hard core terrain for serious skiers and a rugged atmosphere among a breathtaking, thickly wooded Vermont setting. But be warned: the old school theme means snowboarders are not allowed.
Mad River Glen is known for its plentiful hardcore, expert terrain. The runs are full of snow-covered cliffs, waterfalls, moguls and boulders. From the resorts famous single lift, you can access a very wide-open trail, the Catamount Bowl. The area called Paradise, best explored with a guide, is entered by dropping down a five-foot waterfall, and is certainly a challenge. Intermediate skiers should head to the other side of the mountain, accessible via the Sunnyside Chair, for terrain to fit their skill level. Bunny, Quacky and Porcupine are all good runs, but beware not to slide into some of the expert trails (Panther, Slalom Hill and Gazelle) which may be a bit more of a challenge than you bargained for. Beginner territory is a bit hard to find, but from Sunnyside chairlift, follow a few catwalks to intermediate runs Duck, Lark, Robin and Loon, also comfortable for intermediates.
4 lifts.
$$$ (Expensive)45 runs - 30% beginner, 30% intermediate, 40% expert. Longest run is 15,840 feet.
Mountain Statistics: 2,037 feet vertical drop, 3,637 feet summit elevation, 115 acres, average annual accumulation 250 inches.
Mad River Glen is a ski area like no other It's a place where skiing is still a sport, not an industry. A place where skiing remains an outdoor adventure in a pristine, natural setting. A place so perfect its skiers are banding together to protect and preserve it forever. If you have only heard of the legend that is Mad River Glen we invite you to come see for yourself what makes it America's most unique and special ski area. If you haven't been here in a while we encourage you to come back to remind yourself what a ski experience can be. Just say the word and I would be happy to make all your arrangements for a visit. We look forward to seeing you on the mountain this season.