Attitude of Gratitude
Explore this page to learn more about the Mad River Valley, and all the ways that we can care for it together.
We Welcome You to This Very Special Place.
Carved by glacier and river, and known for its uncommon beauty.
The Mad River Valley gives us an exceptional opportunity to coexist with nature: to know bears as our neighbors, to smell the rich earth, to cool off in deep green pools, and to savor food grown on our small farms.
These gifts call for us to meet them with reverence and responsibility.
As a Community
We choose to steward and protect the integrity of this special place: for the people who are here today, and for the generations to follow.
Our Pledge:
Be present in this very moment
Honor the natural world's right to exist
Recognize that access is a privilege
Choose care over convenience
Welcome each person we meet
Honor the Natural World's Right to Exist.
Nature has an inherent right to exist in and of itself. In order to protect the diversity of plants and animals here, we purposefully leave large areas undeveloped and free from the presence of people. This creates time and space for regeneration, and allows our wild neighbors to thrive.
Be Present in This Very Moment.
When we enter the natural world, we tune in. We consider replacing the distraction of our devices with the exquisite gifts of our senses. We slow down, and bring our awareness to the plants, animals and other people we encounter along the way.
Choose Care Over Convenience.
We embrace the simple actions that have a big impact on the living world:
- Take a break on durable surfaces instead of delicate flora on the forest's floor
- Pack out trash and pick up after others (including your dog)
- Volunteer to maintain trails and other community spaces
- Learn about the plants and animals that live here
- Speak up for positive change and educate others on recreational ethics
Recognize that access is a privilege.
In the Mad River Valley, we recreate on land stewarded by Indigenous people for over ten thousand years. Modern day stewardship is shared among federal, state, municipal, and private landowners.
Most local trails pass through private land, thanks to the goodwill and generosity of landowners and businesses who allow access. Countless hours of diligent care go into our trails from community volunteers.
Our ability to experience the beauty of this valley is due to these stakeholders, and we express gratitude by supporting local businesses to ensure a thriving and vibrant local economy.
Welcome Each Person We Meet.
All are welcome here. We acknowledge and greet the people we meet, notice when someone needs help, and take time to extend support to visitors. We strive for a culture of caring for and acknowledging others, honoring the human experience we share with family, friends, and strangers.
Take the Pledge
