Mad River Valley Mini Hike

posted on : July 8, 2022 posted by : GNExplorer 0 Comment

Chase Brook Town Forest, June 2022

The towns of Waitsfield and Warren lie in the Mad River Valley of Vermont. They are quintessential Vermont towns with covered bridges and farms surrounded by the beautiful vista of the Green Mountains. While strolling along Main Street in Waitsfield my husband and I stumbled upon the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce. I was eager to go in and get some free information, but my husband was reluctant; I think he likened it to asking for directions. What’s so bad about stopping and asking for help? I don’t get it, but I digress. We explained our mission to the Chamber of Commerce representative: find doable day hikes. He was happy to oblige and provided us with a wealth of information, maps and a QR code.

Over the summer we have been able to check out several of the hikes recommended to us by the MRV Chamber of Commerce. Here is some information about our first mini hike.

CHASE BROOK TOWN FOREST:

Trail head on German Flats Road near Sugarbush, VT

Chase Brook is a 2.9 mile out-and-back trail that took us about and 1 ½ hours to complete. It starts with a well-maintained footbridge across the brook and then winds through the woods. There was maple syrup farm paraphernalia evident along the trees and the path was well maintained. This was an easy hike that all ages can enjoy. It was a little overcast on the day we tried it, but there was still a lovely view of a fern covered meadow overlooking the mountains near the turnaround point. You may even spot a black bear looking for a treat along the Sugarbush access road like we did. In all seriousness, bears have become more prevalent in this area recently. If you encounter one, make noise and back away slowly – don’t run. After your hike you may want to grab a beer at the Hide Away Café especially if you come face to face with a bear.