Need a fun day trip or weekend escape in Central Vermont? Head to Warren! Explore charming covered bridges, hike scenic trails, and relax in a cozy mountain village. Whether you're skiing world-class slopes, swimming under waterfalls, or browsing local boutiques, Warren offers a peaceful, picturesque retreat in the Mad River Valley.
Warren, VT Highlights:
- Warren Falls: Swim, slide, or simply marvel at this popular natural waterfall and swimming hole along the Mad River.
- Warren Covered Bridge: Stroll through this historic 19th-century bridge, offering classic Vermont photo opportunities and quaint small-town charm.
- Sugarbush Resort: Ski or snowboard in winter, and hike, mountain bike, or golf during the vibrant green summer and colorful fall seasons.
- Blueberry Lake: Kayak, paddleboard, or enjoy serene mountain views at this peaceful lake surrounded by forests.
- Warren Store: Grab sandwiches, homemade baked goods, local crafts, and gifts at this beloved country store in the heart of the village.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Warren is during the late spring through fall (May–October) for lush greenery, waterfall adventures, and vibrant fall foliage. Winter is also fantastic if you love skiing and snowboarding, with Sugarbush Resort offering some of Vermont’s best slopes.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Warren is located off Vermont Route 100, about 1 hour from Burlington and 3 hours from Boston.
- By Plane: The nearest major airport is Burlington International Airport (BTV), approximately a 1-hour drive away.
- By Bus: Vermont Translines and Greyhound offer regional service to nearby towns; car rentals are recommended for full access to the Mad River Valley.
Where to Stay
- The Pitcher Inn – Elegant, luxury inn located right in the village, offering themed rooms, gourmet dining, and cozy New England charm.
- West Hill House B&B – Romantic, eco-friendly bed-and-breakfast near Sugarbush, perfect for couples and peaceful retreats.
- Sugar Lodge at Sugarbush – Comfortable lodge-style accommodations close to Sugarbush Resort and area hiking trails.
Best Things to Do
⮕ Ski or Hike at the Sugarbush Resort
The Sugarbush Resort in the scenic Mad River Valley is a ski resort owned and operated by the Alterra Mountain Company and is one of the New England region’s latest ski resorts. Encompassing a total of over 4,000 acres, the resort is home to off-piste riding and skiing, sixteen ski lifts, more than fifty miles of trails, and over 480 skiable trail acres. In addition to skiing and other winter activities, the Sugarbush Resort also offers other outdoor recreation during the summer season, such as hiking, tennis camps, kids adventure camps, disc golf, zipline, and downhill mountain biking.
Address: 102 Forest Dr, Warren, VT 05674, Phone: 802-552-4007
⮕ Fly Gliders with Sugarbush Roaring
Sugarbush Roaring is based in the Mad River Valley of Vermont, one of the country’s most beautiful places to fly gliders. The company offers aero tows, introductory flights, rentals, scenic rides, and flight instruction. The Warren Sugarbush Airport is one of the United States’ premier soaring locations and on any day locals and tourists alike could experience one of three different forms of soaring lift with Sugarbush Roaring, including the Sugarbush Wave, ridge, or thermal. A full-time operation, lessons and rides are available Sunday to Saturday. The three scenic rides offered include the Mad River Valley, Top Gun, and Mile High.
Address: 2355 Airport Rd, Warren, VT 05674, Phone: 802-496-2290
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
⮕ Take a Cheese Making Class at Three Shepherd Farm
The Three Shepherd Farm is owned and managed by the local Faillace family who produce artisanal cheese made using both sheep and cow milk and aged inside of straw-bale cheese caves. This unique farm in Warren, Vermont is also well known for the classes in cheese making it offers on a regular basis. The Three Shepherd Farm offers specialty cheese classes, artisanal cheese classes, one-day cheese making classes, advanced cheese classes, and even private home classes. These cheesemaking classes and the cheese produced by the farm itself have been featured in a number of television shows and publications.
Address: 108 Roxbury Mountain Rd, Warren, VT 05674, Phone: 802-496-3998
⮕ Have a coffee at the Parisian-style bistro Chez Henri
Chez Henri is a Parisian-style bistro in the ski resort town of Warren. Located within the Sugarbush Village, the restaurant has been a part of the local community for more than fifty years, originally opening its doors back in 1964. The interior of the bistro features murals with scenes of Vermont, “Speakeasy booths,” 1850’s mirrors, a bar made of Italian marble, and a romantic fireplace used for warming bread. Reservations are often necessary during the holiday weeks and weekends.
Address: 80 Sugarbush Village Dr, Warren, VT 05660, Phone: 802-583-2600
⮕ Go Snow Shoeing or Biking at the Blueberry Lake Cross Country Center
Perfectly nestled in the Mad River Valley, the Blueberry Lake Cross Country Center is a much-loved community facility where you can enjoy a variety of winter sports including cross-country skiing, snow shoeing, skating and fat biking. In total, there are 11 trails to explore, covering 35km. The trails are beautifully maintained and offer comfortable, sheltered skiing conditions. Regardless of whether you are an experienced cross-country skier or a novice, there will be a trail that suits your level of expertise. If you are visiting the area you can hire skies and snowshoes on site. Young children and babies can enjoy a ride on a pulk.
Address: 424 Plunkton Rd, Warren, VT 05674, 802 496 6687
⮕ Cool off with a swim in Blueberry Lake
On a hot summers day nothing beats a dip in Blueberry Lake. Vermont is home to several secret swimming holes and Blueberry Lake is one of the best. The little-known lake is nestled among beautiful green hills and woodlands and although it does not have a sandy beach area, the cool clear waters are totally irresistible. In addition to swimming you can also enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking and SUP on the calm protected waters of the lake. Visitors can enjoy wildlife watching around the lake perimeter and hiking and biking are also popular activities. To get to the lake you will need to park at the small parking area off Blueberry Lake Rd and walk the last 100 feet to the lake shore.
Address: Blueberry Lake Rd, Warren, VT 05674
Where to Eat
- Pitcher Inn’s Tracks Restaurant – Upscale dining with a creative, locally sourced menu in an intimate setting.
- American Flatbread at Lareau Farm – Savor wood-fired, farm-to-table pizzas served in a rustic, family-friendly environment just minutes from Warren.
- The Warren Store Café – Delicious, casual spot for hearty breakfasts, sandwiches, and pastries in a laid-back country setting.
If you are interested in local events:
- Warren Fourth of July Celebration (July) – Famous small-town Independence Day bash featuring a quirky parade, live music, and a festive street party.
- Vermont Mountain Bike Festival (Summer) – Celebrate the outdoors with bike races, trail rides, live music, and local brews nearby in the Mad River Valley.
- Mad River Valley Craft Fair (Labor Day Weekend) – Shop handmade crafts, art, and local foods at this well-loved festival in nearby Waitsfield.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Warren, Vermont:
- Waitsfield, VT (10–15 min) – Explore another charming Mad River Valley town with farmers markets, art galleries, and restaurants.
- Appalachian Gap (Route 17) (20 min) – Drive or bike this stunning mountain pass with breathtaking views of the Green Mountains.
- Mad River Glen Ski Area (20 min) – Visit a legendary ski resort famous for its rugged trails and "Ski It If You Can" motto.
- Camels Hump State Park (30 min) – Hike one of Vermont’s most iconic peaks, offering challenging trails and 360-degree summit views.
- Granville Gulf Reservation (25–30 min) – Discover mossy ravines, waterfalls, and scenic roadside stops on a peaceful drive through this protected area.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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When did skiers first discover the high peaks around Warren, Vermont?
- It was during the 1940’s when skiers discovered the high peaks around Warren, Vermont that overlook the idyllic Mad River Valley.
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What makes the Mad River Valley a popular destination today?
- The valley today, with its two towns of Warren and Waitsfield, attracts countless visitors, ranging from laid-back day trips to adventure vacations.
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What is special about the town of Warren?
- The town of Warren is a particularly cute little town with its general store.
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How does the Mad River Valley maintain its charm despite tourism?
- Fortunately, the swell of fields and pastures lining the river and the gently carved ridges that cradle the Mad River Valley help keep the threat of ski resort sprawl away, offering an ideal experience for visitors.
Plan Your Trip