BUTTERMILK FALLS

About Buttermilk Falls

Tucked into the green hills of Rutland County, Buttermilk Falls is one of Vermont's most rewarding natural swimming destinations — the kind of place that feels like a local secret even when others are sharing it with you. Fed by the cold, clear waters of Branch Brook, the falls tumble through a series of three distinct cascades, carving smooth, sculpted rock formations over centuries of patient erosion. The result is a landscape that looks almost too beautiful to be real: rushing white water, mossy ledges, and pools that shimmer with reflected forest light.

The Setting and Landscape

Arriving at Buttermilk Falls, you'll follow a short, well-marked path from the parking area to the water — an easy walk that opens suddenly onto the falls with satisfying drama. The surrounding forest presses in close, keeping the air cool and fragrant with pine and damp earth even on the hottest summer afternoons. Smooth rock formations, shaped by millennia of flowing water, line the brook and invite you to sit, wade, or simply take in the scene. Each of the three waterfall sections has its own character: some sections rush and roar, while others spill gently into quieter pools below. In autumn, the canopy above erupts in crimson and amber, making this one of the most photogenic corners of southern Vermont.

Swimming and Jumping

The pools at Buttermilk Falls are the main event for most visitors. The cascading water creates a natural massage effect as it pours over and around the smooth rocks — a sensation that's equal parts invigorating and relaxing after a warm hike. The water runs cold and clear, fed by the brook year-round, and reaches depths suitable for both cautious waders and more confident swimmers. Jumping from the rock formations is a popular activity here, adding a pulse of adrenaline to what might otherwise be a serene afternoon. Be aware that the rocks around the pools can be slippery, so move carefully and wear water shoes if you have them. There are no lifeguards or safety staff on site, so visitors swim at their own discretion and should supervise children closely near the jumping areas.

Practical Visit Information

Buttermilk Falls is a semi-official site with no formal facilities — there are no restrooms, changing areas, or concessions on site, so come prepared. There is no fee to visit. Summer is the prime season for swimming and jumping, when water levels are manageable and the weather invites long afternoons at the falls. Spring brings dramatically more powerful cascades as snowmelt swells Branch Brook, while winter transforms the area into an icy, otherworldly landscape — beautiful to observe but not suitable for swimming. Camping is not available at the site itself.

Plan Your Visit

Buttermilk Falls sits within easy reach of both Rutland and Ludlow, two of southern Vermont's most welcoming small towns. Rutland offers a full range of dining, lodging, and services, while Ludlow serves as the gateway to Okemo Mountain Resort, which draws visitors year-round for skiing in winter and outdoor recreation in warmer months. Whether you're building a full Vermont weekend or looking for a spontaneous afternoon escape, Buttermilk Falls makes an ideal centerpiece for a day in the Green Mountain State.