At least to me it is. This was by far my favorite stop on the trip. My whole body and mind melted into relaxation as soon as I hit the Mad River Valley and caught the first glimpse of that Mad River.

As far as the resorts …

I took a quick trip up (3 miles) to Sugarbush which is open until April 27th this year. Another perfect spring day, quiet at the mountain, but like Stowe (and most ski resorts at this time of year), plenty of locals driving in and out to catch a few runs before the end of the day. Grateful Dead blaring and a handful of people doing a little partying out on the deck at the base … a good day at the mountain.

Close by is local favorite Mad River Glen (closed for the season), the unique, ungroomed, skier-owned mountain with an interesting history …

The ski area’s founder, Roland Palmedo, believed that the key to Mad River’s success laid in the community’s personal involvement, attachment and loyalty. This is the foundation that all of Mad River’s storied past is based upon. In 1995 a new era began at Mad River Glen. Harking back to Roland Palmedo’s vision, its skiers came together to form the Mad River Glen Cooperative. The skiers, who love, appreciate and want to preserve it now own Mad River Glen. It is America’s only cooperatively owned major ski area. All of us who have already committed ourselves to our goal of protection and preservation invite you to join us in our mission.

Mountain living at its best. The area is all about the spectacular, laid back environment, not too much commercial and endless outdoor recreational opportunities. After doing some people watching around the Waitsfield shopping center on the way out, having lunch at the The Three Mountain Cafe and just plain staring at the front of the small local post office, I realized how much this place felt like home (and maybe I was feeling a little homesick too). Waitsfield, Vermont felt like the eastern version of Wilson, Wyoming.

Not much more (or needed) to say about this area … if you love mountain living, you’ll get hooked pretty quick. Wonderful place … at the very least, try and get out there for a visit!