Skiing down the historic slopes of Mad River Glen in Waitsfield, Vermont, means engaging with a mountain fiercely itself. Here, the snow holds a quiet weight beneath your skis, while branches from the surrounding hardwood forest seem to lean in, daring you through narrow glades. Mad River Glen’s claim to fame isn’t just the rugged terrain—it’s the iconic single-chair lift, a relic from a past era that moves slowly but with purpose, offering a grounded, unhurried ascent unlike any modern high-speed lift.

As you settle into that one-seat chair, the world around you shifts. The lift creaks softly, the cold whisper of wind plays with the trees uphill, and below you, the slopes open up in an uneven stretch of glades, steep pitches, and classic New England rock runs. Mad River Glen's terrain isn’t manicured; it pushes back against complacency with steep drops up to 55 degrees and a vertical descent over 2,000 feet. This forces you to respect the mountain, tune into its rhythm, and commit fully to every turn.

The trail network rewards skiers who know their gear and techniques—or are eager to learn. There are few beginner runs here, so preparation counts. Layers that breathe and wick, durable gloves, and helmets that protect from rock and ice will serve you well. Planning a trip? Aim for mid-January through early March: this window offers the best snow quality, often fine granular powder that the single-chair quietly hoists you over.

Don’t underestimate the charm of the single-chair lift. Unlike fast quads that whisk crowds upwards, this chair invites you to breathe in each yard of ascent, watch the sun crawl over the Green Mountains, or spot deer pauses in the periphery. It’s a slow mutual negotiation between skier and mountain—an experience that foregrounds the adventure in skiing.

When carving your lines down Long Trail Glade or navigating the challenging terrain on The Face, remember that Mad River Glen is not about convenience but about connection—to the mountain’s raw energy and history. Packed with steep pitches, tight trees, and occasional ice patches, it demands care and resilience.

For those ready to take on its character, treat Mad River Glen like a hiking trail: respect it, prepare for it, and let it unfold on your terms. Pack snacks, hydrate well, and moderate your speed on crowded days. And when you finally slide off the single chair for one more run, don’t rush. Let the slow ride up be part of the mountain’s story you carry with you.