Walking in Irasville

Posted on 12/29/2025 by Steve Robbins

WALKING IN IRASVILLE

Walking is still my favorite activity. Year-round and in its many forms. Hiking, on trail, off trail, snowshoeing, with company or alone, and of course in winter, my favorite “taking the skis for a walk”.

As I age, relying on walking is not just good exercise for the heart, lungs and legs with low risk of injury but most importantly to calm and re-focus the mind.

It’s really a big bang for the buck. And we have some great and easy options all over the valley, including in Waitsfield and Irasville Village.

A trail called “Fiddler’s Walk” is one such section of path within the village that is mostly flat and likely overlooked by many, but it packs a lot into just 1.3 miles.

Park for free at the Recreation Hub behind the Welcome Center at the intersection of Routes 100 & 17. Go south and immediately enjoy the sights and sounds of the Mill Brook and the impressive foot bridge. That bridge leads to steeper terrain and will be the subject of another post.

The trail next crosses Route 100, past Mad River Valley Real Estate and joins Dugway Road, then turns along Mad Meadows Road, where it cuts off behind the PV solar field. Go past the Laundromat and proceed straight to the Mad River. The trail follows the Mad River upstream and as it enters the woods offers my favorite portion of this walk. The view of the Mad River and sound of rushing water is peaceful and settling at any time of year.If you are keeping score, tracking along both the Mill Brook and Mad River in the same walk and within a 1/2 mile is special and unique. This section also includes a nice picnic table to enjoy.

After a short uphill section, one emerges at Irasville Common and the heart of the retail shopping district. From here you can extend a walk north or south along the paved sidewalk.

The entire path is well signed and perfect for kids, dogs, and cats.

Thanks to all the property owners who host a section of the Mad River Path and make it possible; you are the best! See you out there.