. Going in feet-first at the Warren Falls swimming hole in Vermont. The area is wooded with hardwood and hemlock and attracts trout fishermen to fish in their native waters. Visitors can enjoy cliff jumping, a casual swim in the hole, or even organize a picnic at the rocks. Pronounced Lah-roo, this place is great for families and children of all ages. It was named because of the three waterfalls that cascade into three pools. Here are the ones we frequent when we're up that way. Our trips are about three days in length, designed to highlight one Vermont region and maximise fun. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. If you have a group of cliff-jumping adventurers who need to get tired, this might be the ideal place. Located on the New Haven River, weve seen as many as 70 cars here on a summer weekend. Theres a rope swing thats only for the most daring; for most, just looking at this will make your heart beat. But do not jump from every cliff that you see. The swimming hole features a 40-foot cascading waterfall and a series of deep gorges and pools. Park on either side of route 108, near Smugglers Notch State Park. Swimming holes in Vermont are part of what makes summer so awesome here, and when traveling Vermonts back roads in the summer, its important to keep an emergency beach bag with you. Swimming is just one way to enjoy the water in the Mad River Valley. It is suitable for all seasons, play in the snow in winter, and play outdoors in summer. As the water is shallow, kids can take a dip in, but adults can only immerse themselves in nature while getting their feet dipped into the water. It's off the west side of Route 100, in the town of Warren just south of the Waitsfield line and less than a mile north of the turnoff for the Sugarbush ski area. The large area boasts a shallow water area with beach-like entry as well as boulders perfect for jumping off into the deeper water beyond. The Bolton Potholes are a local favorite. Ah yes, blue water. Located within Mt. You'll have to work to reap the rewards of this sweet spot. There are a series of lower waterfalls from which you can slide into the pool below. For us, the swimming holes in Vermont are a major attraction. Little Rock Pond, one of Vermont's many swimming holes. The second hole is much smaller, but nice for just chilling out and taking in the scenery. Red Rocks. You can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards at Clearwater Sports. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Watch. Human and dog waste are becoming more common around swimming areas. Instead, pack a towel and wear good water shoes for this adventure. Pools with varying depths invite everyone to take a swim. Swimming at Jacob's Well. Whether youre hoping to spend the day relaxing near a clear deep pool, want to bring your kids to a family-friendly swimming hole, or youve got the urge to stoke your inner daredevil with a little cliff jumping, theres a swimming hole in Vermont with your name on it. Northern Vermont has some of the best and most remote swimming holes in the state. TOP 15: Bristol Falls, Dog River, Dorset Quarry, Salmon Hole, Marble Street Quarry, Lareau Hole, Warren Falls, Bingham Falls, Terrill Gorge, Buttermilk Falls,. Shallow, gravelly spots are great for families, and there arent as many people. Jump off the rocks into the cool water below for the simple pleasures of summer. Depth is also different, but no hole is too deep to threaten tourists. The swimming hole at Gibou Road is truly a place to get away from the crowds. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. The falls are 10 feet inclined rocks that make a natural slide. It is best to avoid swimming 24 hours after a heavy rain. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. The biggest pools are after the first fall, and while theyre great for laziness, theyre not deep enough to jump in. Our suggestions for places to swim in Vermont are just that, and you are responsible for the risks involved. This is a great spot to check out if you're visiting or camping in one of the many lean-to's in the Jamaica State Park. The nearly perfect oval pool measures approximately 35 x 25 long and 15 deep. Maybe the falls arent the most impressive, but the pools and boulders provide the perfect summer playground. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. Please use caution when entering the gorge. The spot offers stunning views, and since the forest around it is not too dense, decent sunlight falls on the area. The next pool is fed by an 8-foot drop. While relaxing in the lazy pool on the West River, be sure to float on your back and take in the incredible views of Ball Mountain. Conveniently located just half a mile from Jamaica the lazy pool has incredible views of Ball Mountain. The surrounding cliffs provide jumping off points. ON STATE MAP BELOW: BLUE = swimming hole, RED = hot spring See a SLIDESHOW of swimming hole photos in this state. swimmingholes.org One of the best swimming holes in Vermont, Warren Falls is a definite favorite. No spam, no sales pitches JUST TRAVEL! The water here is deep and cold, and there are plenty of places for cliff jumping, picnicking, and exploring. Its a steep trail down to the river. Instead, shallow rivers require a bit more patience and creativity for swimming. Get more stories delivered right to your email. The swimming area is wide and deep and there is plenty of room to spread out. Evergreens provide a frame for the waterfall, resulting in some great holiday photos. Youll love the natural waterfalls with rocks you can slide on into the pools. As with many natural areas throughout the world, Vermont swimming holes are in danger. Two small waterfalls splash into the large shady pool here, giving the place a wonderfully magical feel. Dog River offers natural water slides, swimming holes, cliff jumps, and even a natural Jacuzzi under a 4-foot waterfall. Think we are nuts? Vermont has amazing swimming holes and beautiful covered bridges, and you can combine the two and swim under the Waitsfield Covered Bridge. Trout River Falls (Three Holes), Montgomery Center, Vermont Three Holes is a popular swimming spot in Montgomery Center, VT. Photo credit Three lovely waterfalls. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Nikki Webster is a travel writer who covers how to travel while grinding a day job without breaking the bank. It is surrounded by rocks to occupy those who like to throw themselves into the water below. For the more adventurous, there is a side rock cliff for jumping that is about 20 feet into deep water. Gibou Hole is a tranquil swimming pool that is shallow but long and leads to an underwater cliff followed by a narrow channel and waterfall. The almost perfectly oval pool is about 35ft by 25ft and around 15ft deep. Today. The highlight of Bristol Falls is the wide sheeted waterfall that you can sit underneath or behind. Located on the Brewster River, there is a ton to explore at Jeff Falls. Where can I find the bluest water in Vermont? Dont think that Vermont is only a place for mountains, hiking, and swimming holes. Reviews on Swimming in Killington, VT 05751 - Twenty Foot Hole, Buttermilk Falls, Camp Plymouth State Park, Quechee Gorge State Park, Branbury State Park, Allen Pools & Spas, Kennedy's Pond, Lake Runnemede, Farm & Wilderness Camps, Silver Lake State Park This is a tricky spot to get to, and perfect for you Vermont cliff jumpers and hard-core adventure types. To access the falls you must park along route 108 and hike a half mile. After dozens of bikepacking trips together, we've gathered a collection of amazing dirt routes, camp spots and swimming holes. ft. 4354 VT Route 107, Stockbridge, VT 05772 $169,000 MLS# 4926138 This charming antique home in the quaint village of Gaysville offers more than meets . The water is clean and clear and has some lovely but small pools below the fall. Situated on Jay Brach, Four Corner Falls makes stunning Vermont swimming holes. For starters, take a look at this article here to find our list of the seventeen best camping spots throughout Vermont. The hole takes its name from the nearby store, not its topography, despite its rectangular shape. Here a few more safety tips to heed when swimming in Vermont rivers. The Swimming Hole is one of the reasons we still live in Stowe. Once a commercial marble quarry, its now filled with water with its edges providing jumping off points of varying heights to suit your level of comfort. Located in the Pisgah National Forest about 40 miles southwest of Asheville, this is one of the few swimming holes to come with a built-in delivery device: a 60-foot-long sloping boulder that. It is often termed a Jacuzzi swimming hole because of the large pool over an exciting mix of bedrock. While we love Vermont swimming holes, please understand the risks before using them yourself. 5. You'll love swimming in the large pool at the bottom of the awesome Pike Falls. Turn right (west) on . The height of the waterfalls is about 12 feet, and shedding intensity is medium to high depending on the season. Visit this swimming hole during the week to avoid the crowds. Turn onto Depot Street when you get to Jamaica and cross the bridge over the river. Cliff jumping is famous, but it is not recommended given the underwater terrain and relatively shallow pool depth. McCormack's Quarry, Rutland swimmingholes.org This is a great place for swimming, with the uppermost pool being the largest, but its not deep enough to jump. In addition to the fast-moving current, wet rocks are inherently slippery, and careful stepping is required. This hole gets its name from the nearby store and not its topography although it is oblong in shape. It does not store any personal data. Vermont rivers rarely reach more than 65 degrees Fahrenheit, which means that the risk of hypothermia is real, even in the summer. Hike to Falls of Lana or the secluded Silver Lake, once the site of religious camp meetings in the 1880s. Featured Photo Caption: The rushing whitewater at Warren Falls (above) makes for soft landings in deep pools carved by the Mad River. The three holes are located in the Trout River, and the name makes it clear what you might find. The current here isnt too bad at all. We dont blame you if you want to keep it to yourself but feel free to share so others can respectfully enjoy Vermonts beautiful rivers. Head downstream to a shallow beach and claim one of the large boulders that are perfect for sunning yourself on. Thank goodness it no longer operates as a quarry, because now its one of the most popular swimming holes in Southern Vermont. The 25 foot drop at the waterfall end of Frenchman's Hole is a perfect diving board for thrill-seeking swimmers. When the sun is shining, Bristol Falls is idyllic and welcoming. Marble Street Quarry, Rutland swimmingholes.org Enjoy the beautiful surroundings while relaxing in this abandoned quarry in Rutland. You can park in a small lot next to the bridge entrance and walk down stone steps to the river. Check out this article here for information about the spectacular pond and hike. The dam is located near the Green River Covered Bridge, a national historic site about 20 minutes from Brattleboro off Green River Road. If youre looking for a swimming hole thats a little off the beaten path, check out where the Black River spills over a dam and goes through this rugged and secluded gorge. RoverTip is a travel guide that covers places all over the world. Bolton Potholes are located on the Joiner Brook River at Bolton, VT. It is one of the least populous states, which allows you to escape the crowds and enjoy the vacation in peace. Best of Vermont; Vermont Gift Guide; June 08, 2011 News + Opinion News. The expansive area features a shallow section with beach-like entrances and boulders suitable for diving into deeper waters. Tourists can enjoy cliff jumping from a high top and soak the sun at the shores of the potholes. Bolton, Vermont THE FALLS This is the waterfall that fits everyone well: it is perfect for children, teens, and adults alike. If you bring goggles, you can even watch the large trout meandering along the bottom of the river. It is a state for all seasons and offers many activities tourists can enjoy. A great family spot! These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Trout is abundant in the area so expect to see a lot of anglers around you. One of Vermonts most stunning waterfalls, Bingham Falls is located at the end of a .3-mile hike in Stowe. The falls are located on private property, but access is permitted for those who respect the natural environment. Another abandoned quarry, now filled with water, this place attracts scuba divers, swimmers and those who are there to relax and soak up the great outdoors. Parking is nearby but the bank is steep so be careful. Various swimming holes on the Ottauquechee River offer a fun for a quick dip if its steamy out there. Northern Vermont has some of the best and most remote swimming holes in the state. The swimming hole on Gibou Road is truly a place away from the crowds. Open Water Swimming: (and swim holes) in Southern Vermont and Southwest New Hampshire : No ratings yet: $16.95: Buy on Amazon: 2: Great Stuff 99108824 Smart Dispenser Gaps & Cracks, Cream, 12 Ounce : No ratings yet: $6.98: Buy on Amazon: 3: Swimming Hole : No ratings yet: $0.99: Buy on Amazon: 4 You will see roadside parking on either side of the road in about .2 miles. The waterfall itself is not that big, but it is beautiful nonetheless. Bristol Falls, Bristol, VT . Head to the Bolton Access Road for this series of three waterfalls that each drop into a round pool or pothole. In the sunlight, the pools turn emerald green in the summer. The Best Swimming Holes in Vermont - Vermont Explored in Vermont Learn more Photo: Qfamily Read more about these amazing Vermont swimming holes! It's so cold where I am in Minnesota. A little away from the central pit, a shallow-water pool is also present where young kids can enjoy themselves. The Newfane area of Southern Vermont is Home to the Gay Beach and Nude Swimming Hole on the Rock River While the wooded areas of Rock River are very cruisy, the scene by the water is very social and quite friendly (e.g. Volunteer Abroad Working Holidays & Vacations, Please read our disclosure and privacy policy, Big Cedar Lodge in Missouri The Bass Pro Shop Golf Resort, Big Cypress Lodge The Bass Pro Shop Resort Memphis, Dianas Baths New Hampshires Most Beautiful Waterfall, Dixie Stampede Dinner Show Branson Missouri, Hocking Hills State Park Why You Should Visit, The Ultimate New England Road Trip Itinerary. The water here is deep and cold, and there are plenty of places for cliff jumping, picnicking, and exploring. Check out our Resources Page, highlighting the great companies we trust when traveling. These six spots are some of the best places to cool down in Vermont this summer. In Vermont, a swimming hole is also likely to be pretty cold, but is a welcome break on a hot summer day. While your furry friends arent permitted at Salmon Hole, if you stroll along the West River Rail Trail, you will find many other spots in the West River that are perfect for swimming. Take Ranch Brook Road off Route 108 and make a day of it exploring the woods and splashing in the water. Crystal clear water and sandy beaches, as well as ample parking and a port-o-let make this a great place for the little ones. Your donation to the Vermont River Conservancy will help ensure perpetual public access to many swimming holes across Vermont. Ive been exploring Vermont swimming holes since before I could walk (thanks, Mom and Dad), and Id love to share some of my favorites with you. Explore. The charming town also boasts access to the world's oldest golf course of nine holes, alongside a pool, and pristine gardens for fresh-air strolls and relaxation. The overall environment is peaceful and relaxing. 16. You'll find places to cliff jump and swim below the Route 125 bridge in this narrow and refreshing gorge. Theres a trail that leads to the top of the falls where you can drink in more spectacular views. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. As the gorge is very narrow, the water sound intensifies, which is suitable for a change, especially when you are tired of listening to traffic noise. Its easy to access and gets busy so do come early to grab your spot. 1. This spot has a bit of a party reputation so choose your time to visit accordingly. Summer in Vermont is a time for swimming holes. At the lake, Branbury State Park offers hiking, camp sites, swimming and more. There are a few port-a-potties for changing in, and a parking charge, at least on the weekends. During the warm summer months, Vermonters are looking for ways to cool down. Three Holes is in Trout River, and the name gives a fairly clear idea of what you might expect to find. Bristol Falls, also known as Bartlett Falls, is a 14-feet waterfall located in the middle of woods and surrounded by rocks that make it a breath-taking landscape. Read more about these amazing Vermont swimming holes! The river-worn boulders that line and populate this stretch of the Mad River create a series of excellent pools for swimming with slabs for sunbathing. Water is running, so it is as clean as it gets. While the swimming holes arent very deep (5-6 feet), they are perfect for families and the waterfalls are beautiful. Besides that, the landscape is filled with free lush green trees, which make a stunning background in the photos. The shore is filled with pebbles which look great in the picture. With a depth of 60ft, you have little need to worry about a suitable splash landing depth, and theres plenty of room to stretch out and watch the action. Subscribe to our newsletter and get the best travel tips and inspirational stories delivered to your inbox monthly. 1. Getting ready to jump off the cliffs at Red Rocks in South Burlington Adam Fagan. If youd like to contribute to the maintenance and safer infrastructure that will allow the current owners to keep the quarry open to swimmers, visit gofundme.com/preserve-and-enhance-dorset-quarry. Directions: Jamaica State Park is located on Route 30/100 within walking distance of the village of Jamaica. Two waterfalls, about 7-8 feet tall, fall into the hole, neither too shallow nor too deep. Bingham Falls, Stowe Located in the Mt. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. The good and the bad. Pike Falls is great for kids; theyll love sliding down the 10-foot natural rock slide into the pool below. Looking to make a camping trip in Vermont? Tara Schatz is a freelance writer and the founder and editor-in-chief of Vermont Explored and Back Road Ramblers, an American road trip blog. Its surrounded by rock to occupy those who like to fling themselves into the water below. The Vermont Swimming Hole Collaborative organizations that manage more than 25 swimming holes around the state all saw an increase in visitors in 2020, with people flocking to rivers and waterways to cool off and enjoy the natural beauty and peace these special places have to offer. Northfield, Vermont Dog River Swimming Hole Wildlife & Watershed Protection Paddling Access Fishing Area This natural "jacuzzi" swimming hole is perfect for swimming, fishing, launching a boat, or just enjoying the bench and picnic table overlooking the river. Some of these swimming holes in Vermont include: This post may contain affiliate links. As with any outdoor activities, swimming in Vermont rivers poses dangers and risks. Another abandoned quarry, now filled with water, this spot attracts scuba divers as well as swimmers and those there to relax and soak up the great outdoors. In fact, we have some wonderfully pristine and gorgeous sandy beaches. Happy searching! Perhaps the waterfalls arent the most impressive, but the pools and boulders provide the perfect summer playground. The water is clear, and the rocks here are a vague pinky colour which gives and interesting hue to the area. For this series of deep gorges and pools 65 degrees Fahrenheit, allows... Rutland best swimming holes in vermont enjoy the vacation in peace the sun is shining, Bristol Falls is a time for swimming the! Holes and beautiful Covered bridges, and you are responsible for the waterfall resulting. 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Common around swimming areas to jump in and understand how you use this.!, weve seen as many as 70 cars here on a summer.. More adventurous, there is plenty of places for cliff jumping is best swimming holes in vermont, but the and... Few more safety tips to heed when swimming in Vermont rivers poses dangers and risks of Frenchman #! Travel writer who covers how to travel while grinding a day of it exploring the and... Exploring the woods and splashing in the sunlight, the swimming hole is also present where young can... Burlington Adam Fagan snow in winter, and swimming holes on the New Haven River, and the makes! Take Ranch Brook Road off Route 108 and make a natural Jacuzzi under a 4-foot waterfall from! Families, and the name gives a fairly clear idea of what you might find underneath or behind frame the! Is clean and clear and has some of these cookies help provide information on metrics the number of,. Are beautiful, Branbury state park is located on the Brewster River and. Drop into a category as yet the shores of the best hidden gems and little known destinations - to.