Waterfalls and Swimming Holes in Vermont

Best Waterfalls and Swimming Holes in Vermont

Vermont's rugged landscape is carved with rivers and brooks, creating countless natural swimming holes and cascading waterfalls. These unofficial, often pristine spots offer a refreshing escape. This guide highlights the best, with essential tips for a safe and enjoyable visit.

TL;DR

Vermont's top swimming holes and waterfalls are found in state parks and along rural rivers. Key spots include the dramatic Bristol Falls & Circle Current and the popular Buttermilk Falls. Always prioritize safety: rocks are slippery, water levels change rapidly, and there are rarely lifeguards. Access is often via unmarked trails, and parking can be limited. Leave no trace.

Top 12 Vermont Waterfalls & Swimming Holes

  1. Bristol Falls & Circle Current – A powerful waterfall and deep, swirling pool on the New Haven River. Bristol Falls & Circle Current
  2. Buttermilk Falls – A series of three scenic waterfalls and pools on Branch Brook near Ludlow. Buttermilk Falls
  3. Bolton Potholes: Sculpted rock and cascades on Joiner Brook, with serious swimming hazards. No visitor parking; access is by foot or bicycle only. Never enter Eagle's Eye. Bolton Potholes
  4. Falls of Lana: Rocky cascades on Sucker Brook reached from the Silver Lake trailhead on VT 53. This is not the developed beach at Branbury or the separate hike-in beach at Silver Lake. Falls of Lana
  5. Salmon Hole (Jamaica State Park) – A family-friendly, deep swimming hole on the West River. Jamaica Vermont Swimming Holes
  6. Pikes Falls (Jamaica area) – A natural pool below a waterfall, offering a more secluded experience. Jamaica Vermont Swimming Holes
  7. Brewster Gorge (Lamoille Valley) – A dramatic gorge with deep swimming spots along the Lamoille River. Lamoille River Valley Swimming Holes
  8. Jeff Falls (Lamoille Valley) – A lesser-known waterfall and swimming area. Lamoille River Valley Swimming Holes
  9. Fosters Pool (Stowe area) – A popular, easily accessible swimming hole on the West Branch River. Stowe Vermont Swimming Holes
  10. Bingham Falls (Stowe area) – A stunning waterfall with a deep, cold pool at its base. Stowe Vermont Swimming Holes
  11. Montgomery Center Area Falls – Several waterfalls and swimming holes in the northern Green Mountains. Montgomery Center Vermont Swimming Holes
  12. Johnson Swimming Hole (Lamoille Valley) – A classic river swimming spot in a small town setting. Lamoille River Valley Swimming Holes

Falls of Lana, Silver Lake or Branbury?

These nearby destinations offer different kinds of visits. Choose the outing before choosing a parking destination:

  • Waterfall walk: Follow the Silver Lake Trail from the VT 53 trailhead toward Falls of Lana. The Brandon Chamber describes the falls viewpoint about 0.3 miles along the route and cautions about footing. That distance is to the waterfall area, not the full hike to Silver Lake.
  • Longer lake outing: Silver Lake lies farther uphill. Moosalamoo Association describes a small beach and access on foot or bicycle, not a drive-up lakeside beach. Allow for the return hike and check the current trail map.
  • Developed beach: Branbury State Park on Lake Dunmore has a sandy beach and visitor services. It is a separate destination from the falls. Check the park's current season, fees and beach conditions before travelling.

Moosalamoo Association describes cooling-off spots at Falls of Lana, but that is not a current assessment of water quality, depth or flow. Do not interpret a waterfall photograph as permission to slide down rocks or enter below a cascade.

Sources checked September 26, 2026: Moosalamoo Association's swimming information and Brandon Chamber's trail access guide. Check Branbury State Park for current park details.

When to Go

  • Prime Season: Late June through early September. Water temperatures are most comfortable, and summer storms can swell rivers.
  • Snowmelt (May-June): Water is very cold and currents are strong from melting snow. Falls are at their most powerful but swimming can be dangerous.
  • Heavy Rain: Avoid entering rivers during and after storms. Dangerous currents can persist for days. At Bolton Potholes, the caretaker advises at least 48 hours without swimming after heavy rain; elapsed time alone does not prove safe conditions.
  • Off-Season (Fall-Winter): Not recommended for swimming. Trails can be icy, and hypothermia risk is extreme.

Safety First

These are natural, unsupervised areas. Your safety is your responsibility.

  • Slippery Rocks: Algae-covered rocks near waterfalls are extremely slippery. Wear water shoes with grip and move cautiously. Never run.
  • Flash Floods: Water levels can rise rapidly from upstream rain, even if it's not raining where you are. Know the weather forecast and have an escape route to high ground.
  • Cold Water: Even in summer, spring-fed water can cause cold shock or hypothermia. Acclimate slowly.
  • Diving/Jumping: Never dive headfirst. Submerged rocks and changing depths make this extremely dangerous. Always enter feet first.
  • Strength of Current: Especially at spots like Bristol Falls & Circle Current, currents can be deceptively strong. Avoid swimming near the base of powerful falls.
  • Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash. Respect private property and stay on established trails.

Access & Permits

  • Unofficial Status: Most listed spots are not official state park facilities. They are accessed via informal trails, often from roadside pull-offs.
  • Parking: Parking is extremely limited at many locations. Arrive early, carpool, and never block gates, driveways, or traffic lanes. Illegal parking results in tickets and access closures.
  • No Permits Required: Generally, no permits are needed for day-use swimming at these natural features.
  • Private Land: Some access trails may cross or border private land. Be respectful, follow posted signs, and do not trespass.

Bolton access checked September 26, 2026: Vermont River Conservancy lists no visitor parking, foot or bicycle access only, and no dogs. Do not use old roadside-parking directions.

FAQs

Q: Are these spots suitable for young children?
A: It varies. Places like Salmon Hole in Jamaica Vermont Swimming Holes are more family-friendly with gradual entry. Powerful currents at places like Bristol Falls are not safe for non-swimmers or young kids.

Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: Check each site's current rules. Dogs are not allowed at Bolton Potholes, even though older signs or visitor reports may suggest otherwise.

Q: Are there restrooms or changing facilities?
A: Almost never at these unofficial spots. Plan accordingly. State parks like Jamaica may have facilities nearby.

Q: Is the water clean?
A: This guide does not provide current water-quality results. Check local advisories and do not judge safety by water clarity. Bolton's caretaker advises avoiding swimming for at least 48 hours after heavy rain; that waiting period does not guarantee safe conditions. Never drink untreated stream water.

Q: What should I bring?
A: Water shoes, sunscreen, a towel, drinking water, a trash bag, and a first-aid kit. A waterproof bag for your phone/keys is also recommended.

Q: What's the biggest mistake visitors make?
A: Underestimating the power of moving water and overestimating their swimming ability. Always err on the side of caution.