About the Mad River Valley

Although the Mad River Valley has become famous for its tourism attractions, it is truly so much more. The Valley is a clearly defined geographic area, created by the river that runs through it.

The villages of Warren and Waitsfield, set along the Mad River, received their charters more than 200 years ago. Along with Fayston, the communities survived on farming and became prosperous for a time through manufacturing, using both the Mad River and the Mill Brook to power mills.

Prosperity ended in the 1920's with a disastrous flood and it wasn't until after World War II, with the beginnings of the ski industry, that the Valley began to prosper gain. The natural beauty, coupled with the attraction of the mountains, drew new residents -- a diverse and cultured group, many retreating from the clutter of big city living -- to the Valley.  Today, a unique community has fostered a unique life style. The Valley is not a manufactured tourist attraction; it is a real community -- a good, decent place to live, which makes it a wonderful place to visit.