Why Mad River Glen, Vermont Offers Free Season Passes to Scythe-Wielding Volunteers

Uttering the words 'Mad River Glen' in a crowded ski bar will undoubtedly elicit profound reactions. The unique ski area located in northern Vermont is as polarizing as it is beloved due to its no snowboarding policy.

Then there's the iconic Single Chair, a lift that Mad River Glen's (MRG) co-op elected to spend exorbitant amounts of money on to restore, rather than replace, back in 2007. Some argue that MRG is stuck in time while others hope it never changes.

One of the ski area's oldest, and certainly most unique, practices is the Mow Crew. MRG enlists dozens of volunteers each early-Autumn to hand cut weeds, brush, and other debris with scythes. Yes, they use the same tool you've seen peasant field workers swinging in medieval movies, or being carried by The Grim Reaper.

Like most modern ski areas, MRG utilizes a tractor to cut and trim growth from the majority of its terrain, but roughly 20 trails are simply too rugged for a vehicle to navigate. That's where MRG's scythe-wielding group of volunteers come to play.

"The most important thing is that we keep our water bars clear so we have good water management," says Mad River Glen's Marketing & Events Manager Ry Young. "Then, obviously, we're going after woody plants so trees don't grow in the middle of trails where they're not supposed to."

Video: Mad River Glen Mow Crew

Video Credit: Photos by Kintz , Mad River Glen

Young, who has worked at Mad River Glen for over two decades, has joined the mow crew multiple times over his tenure. "It's the best worst job you'll ever have," he said with a chuckle.

MRG began the hand-cutting program back in 1948, the same year the ski area opened. Nowadays, MRG's ten day Mow Crew team is a desirable gig. Most members aren't paid in cash (MRG offers $18/hr for tenured mowers), but those who participate in the full ten day program are rewarded with a season pass, an invaluable benefit for those who can't afford the nearly $1,000 price tag.

Young confirmed that the majority of volunteers are motivated by the free pass, but that the experience ends up meaning more to some folks. "There are lifetime friendships that form across the ten day program. You really get to know people, and it attracts people from all walks of life with a similar interest— Mad River Glen."

The Mow Crew typically starts their day at the bottom of the mountain at 7AM. They then set off together for their daily assignment. It can be a slog hiking the steep and rocky terrain that MRG is revered for, but according to Young, it's an excellent way to learn more about the mountain.

The day wraps up at 3PM with a relaxing ride down one of MRG's chairlifts, which varies on the trail(s) that were cut that day, but the most enjoyable ride is obviously on the Single Chair. "You don't have to walk down the hill which is easier on everybody's knees. And after a long day of working, it's nice to kick back and get some wind in your face," explains Young.

Young made sure to emphasize that Mow Crew isn't a walk in the park. The group keeps a slow and steady pace, but swinging a scythe as you hike up a mountain for ten days in a row is taxing on the body. "The hardest thing about Mow Crew is waking up in the morning," he said. "But once you show up, everybody is in the same boat, and the group rallies together."

Mad River Glen's Mow Crew started on September 9th and is expected to run through September 20th, 2024. Meaning it's too late to get involved this year. If you're interested in earning a season pass next year on the Mow Crew, Young is encouraging folks to come out. Bring your hiking shoes, a good water bottle, a pair of trustworthy working gloves, and good vibes.

Mow Crew isn't for complainers. Mow Crew is for skiers.

Related: Jay Peak, Vermont Sees First Snowfall of Winter '24/'25 Season

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