Brook VT

ADAMS HOLE

Discover Adams Hole in Vermont, a secluded swimming spot along Joes Brook. Ideal for nature lovers seeking tranquility and outdoor adventure.

Free
Access
Unofficial
Status
Pretty Confident
Confidence
Joes Brook
Water Body

Location Details

Nearby Towns
ST. JOHNSBURY, EAST BARNET, DANVILLE
Coordinates
10, 44.343334

Discover Adams Hole: Vermont's Hidden Swimming Gem

Where Is Adams Hole? Exploring Vermont’s Hidden Retreat

Adams Hole, tucked within the verdant reaches of Vermont's Caledonia County, is a natural aquatic retreat that offers visitors a serene escape into the wilderness. Located along the gentle flow of Joes Brook, this swimming hole is accessible from three nearby towns: St. Johnsbury, East Barnet, and Danville. The journey to Adams Hole itself is an adventure, as visitors traverse winding rural roads, eventually reaching a gravel pathway that leads to this secluded spot.

The Natural Beauty of Adams Hole and Joes Brook

Geologically, Joes Brook meanders through a mix of forested terrain and rocky outcroppings, creating pockets of calm pools and gentle cascades. Adams Hole is one such pool, a natural basin formed over centuries of erosion by the brook’s flowing waters. Its depths are ideal for swimming, with water clarity revealing smooth stones and pebbles below. During warmer months, the water temperature is refreshingly cool, offering relief to those visiting on hot summer days. The surrounding area is dotted with trees that provide shade and create a sense of seclusion, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and exploration.

Best Time to Visit Adams Hole: Seasonal Highlights

Swimming at Adams Hole is a tranquil experience. Seasonal variations add to the charm of the site; summer is undoubtedly the best time to visit, with the brook’s water levels remaining consistent and the surrounding foliage lush and vibrant. In autumn, the area transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors, while spring brings the excitement of snowmelt swelling the brook, though swimming may be less feasible during these months due to colder temperatures.

Wildlife and Photography Opportunities at Adams Hole

Wildlife enthusiasts will find Adams Hole an intriguing location. From darting dragonflies over the water to the possibility of spotting deer or foxes in the nearby woods, the area teems with life. Vegetation includes a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees, with ferns and wildflowers lining the brook’s edge. Photographers will be captivated by the interplay of light on the water, particularly during golden hours in the early morning or late afternoon. The reflections of trees and sky in the crystalline water create picture-perfect moments, while the rocky outcroppings serve as natural framing for landscape shots.

How to Get to Adams Hole: Access and Safety Tips

The gravel path leading to the swimming hole requires careful navigation, particularly after rain when the road may be slick. As the site lacks amenities, visitors must come prepared with essentials such as drinking water, sunscreen, and proper footwear. Families with young children should exercise caution, as the site’s natural features are not tailored to supervised play areas. Safety is paramount when visiting Adams Hole, and swimmers should be mindful of uneven and slippery rocks around the water’s edge.

Swimming at Adams Hole: What to Expect

Adams Hole offers a peaceful atmosphere, punctuated only by the rustling of leaves and the occasional chirping of birds. The gentle current of Joes Brook ensures a safe environment for swimmers, though caution is advised due to the lack of lifeguards or facilities. Visitors can expect a tranquil experience, perfect for unwinding or enjoying Vermont’s natural beauty. Adhering to Leave No Trace principles is essential to preserve the area’s pristine condition.

Nearby Attractions: Explore Vermont’s Rich Heritage

For those looking to extend their adventure, nearby attractions include St. Johnsbury’s Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium, a fascinating destination for those interested in natural history, as well as the Danville Historical Society, which sheds light on the region’s rich cultural past. Scenic drives along Route 5 or hikes in adjacent wooded areas provide additional opportunities for exploration.

Adams Hole offers a glimpse into Vermont’s commitment to preserving its natural environments. Whether you’re here for a swim, a picnic, or simply to soak in the surroundings, Adams Hole invites you to enjoy the simpler pleasures of Vermont’s great outdoors.

Getting There

Directions to Adams Hole, Vermont

Adams Hole is a scenic swimming spot located in Joe's Brook near the towns of St. Johnsbury, East Barnet, and Danville, Vermont. Follow these step-by-step directions to reach this location:

  1. Starting Point: St. Johnsbury, VT
    Begin your journey in St. Johnsbury. Head south on VT Route 5 (Main Street).

  2. Turn onto Joe's Brook Road
    Approximately 2 miles before reaching East Barnet, turn west (right) onto Joe's Brook Road. This turn is well-marked, so keep an eye out for the road sign.

  3. Follow Joe's Brook Road Toward Danville
    Continue driving on Joe's Brook Road toward Danville. The road will transition from paved to gravel after a short distance.

  4. Locate the Pull-Off
    Once the road becomes gravel, drive approximately 0.5 miles further. Look for a pull-off area on the right-hand side of the road. This pull-off is unmarked but provides space for parking.

  5. Access the Swimming Hole
    Park your vehicle at the pull-off. From here, the swimming hole is located nearby in Joe's Brook. You may need to walk a short distance down to the brook, so wear sturdy footwear and exercise caution on uneven terrain.

Additional Notes:

  • Parking is limited at the pull-off, so plan accordingly during peak times.
  • There are no formal trailheads or signs marking the swimming hole, so be prepared to explore the area carefully.
  • Respect the natural environment and leave no trace to preserve the beauty of the site.

Enjoy your visit to Adams Hole!

Highlights

Crystal-clear waters of Joes Brook
Secluded natural setting
Ideal for summer swimming
Rich local wildlife
Photography opportunities in lush surroundings

Unique Features

Natural basin shaped by centuries of erosion
Seclusion with no facilities or crowds
Refreshing cool water even in peak summer

Location & Area Map

Safety Information

Important Safety Tips

Wear sturdy footwear for uneven terrain, be mindful of slippery rocks near the water, and bring essentials like water and sunscreen due to the lack of facilities.

Cultural & Historical Context

Historical Background

Located near St. Johnsbury, a town with deep historical roots in Vermont’s development. Joes Brook and the surrounding area hold cultural significance tied to the region's natural resources.

Photography Guide

Photo Opportunities

Best times for photography are early morning and late afternoon. Capture reflections on the water, lush greenery, and wildlife near the brook’s edge.

Conservation & Ethics

Protect This Place

Follow Leave No Trace principles. Avoid disrupting wildlife and ensure personal waste is packed out to preserve the area’s pristine condition.

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Visit Information

Best Time to Visit
Summer months from June to August offer optimal swimming conditions with warm temperatures and consistent water levels. Fall is excellent for scenic photography with vibrant foliage.
Difficulty Level
Moderate. The gravel road requires careful driving, and the natural terrain leading to the swimming hole may be uneven.
Fee
None
Facilities
No facilities available. Visitors should plan to bring all necessary supplies, including water, food, and towels.
Activities
Swimming

Camping Information

Not at site.

Nearby Attractions

  • Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium in St. Johnsbury
  • Danville Historical Society
  • Scenic Route 5 drives
  • Connecticut River Valley
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Weather Information

Weather data is currently unavailable for this location.

Check Weather.gov for local conditions

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