Best Vermont Swimming Holes: Local Guide to Natural Pools, Waterfalls & Hidden Gems
Vermont’s rivers and streams hide some of New England’s most spectacular natural swimming spots. Whether you’re a local looking to beat the summer heat or a visitor exploring the Green Mountain State, Vermont swimming holes offer something you won’t find at any public pool: glacier-carved rock formations, crystal-clear mountain water, rope swings, cliff jumps, and the kind of serene natural beauty that makes summer feel worth the wait.
This guide covers the best swimming holes in Vermont — from the popular Bolton Potholes near Burlington to the tucked-away Fosters Swimming Hole in Stowe — with practical details on parking, water depth, and what to bring.
What Makes Vermont Swimming Holes Special?
Vermont’s swimming holes are formed by centuries of glacial activity and rushing mountain streams cutting through bedrock. The result is a landscape of natural pools, smooth rock slabs perfect for sunbathing, cascading waterfalls, and plunge pools deep enough for jumping. Unlike crowded public beaches, most Vermont swimming holes are nestled in the woods, offering a quieter, more immersive outdoor experience.
Water temperatures tend to stay cool even in peak summer — refreshing on a hot July afternoon, but worth knowing before you jump in.
Bristol Falls – Bristol, Vermont
Best for: Families, chair-in-water lounging, rock sunbathing
Bristol Falls is one of Vermont’s most beloved natural swimming spots, and for good reason. A couple of hundred feet downstream from the main falls, just past the cliffs, the river opens into a series of shallow, clear pools. Over time, visitors have used rocks to build up natural walls, creating several distinct wading pools — some shallow enough for kids, others deep enough for a full swim.
The travel credit card that saves you money. Learn how to apply here.
The flat rock slabs lining the riverbanks are ideal for sunbathing, and the far side of the river catches morning sun before shifting into afternoon shade — a perfect setup for a full day out. Bring a hammock if you want to nap between swims.
Water depth: Shallow to moderate, depending on seasonal flow
Cliff jumping: Yes, from the cliffs near the upper falls
Parking: Pull off on either side of the road. Keep all four tires on the gravel — parking with tires on the pavement risks a ticket.
Fosters Swimming Hole – Stowe, Vermont
Best for: Those seeking a less-crowded Vermont swimming hole, natural rock jacuzzis
One of the more under-the-radar swimming holes in Vermont, Fosters is tucked just off Notchbrook Road in Stowe. From the road, a short set of roughly 15 stone steps leads you down to the river. Large flat rocks shaded by trees at the top serve as a natural staging area to leave gear before heading in.
The deepest section of the river sits right at the base of the steps — this is the primary jumping spot. A short hike through the woods on the far bank leads to an alternate jump point. For a gentler experience, head upstream to the right, where water depth ranges from about 6 inches to 4 feet depending on current flow. Look for gaps between the rocks — wedge yourself in and let the current do its work for a natural jacuzzi effect.
Fosters tends to stay less crowded than the Burlington-area swimming holes, making it a great choice on busy summer weekends.
Water depth: 6 inches to 4 feet (wading area); deep pool at base
Cliff jumping: Yes, from the riverbank and far side of the river
Parking: No lot. Park on the left side of Notchbrook Road, facing downhill.
Bolton Potholes – Bolton, Vermont
Best for: Day trips from Burlington, waterfall swimming, scenic views
Bolton Potholes is arguably the most famous swimming hole near Burlington, Vermont, and it earns its reputation. Located along Joiner Brook, the potholes are a series of five waterfalls that have carved out a sequence of separate plunge pools over thousands of years. Each pool has its own character — some sunny and shallow, others deep and shadowy
Rocky beaches line the banks for sunbathing, and deeper sections make for excellent jumping. If you’re up for a short scramble, climb to the Eagle’s Eye viewpoint for sweeping Vermont mountain views that are worth the effort.
Is the AMEX Platinum Card worth the fee? Yes! Learn how to apply here.
Be prepared for crowds on hot summer weekends. An alternate trail access point is available: instead of taking the first trailhead, head north along the road and follow the path up.
Water depth: Varies by pool — shallow to deep
Cliff jumping: Yes
Parking: No roadside parking is permitted. The Bolton Valley Access Road lot is closed. Best option: park near Smilie Community School and follow the trail up to the potholes.
Winooski Footbridge (Long Trail) – Bolton, Vermont
Best for: Bridge jumping, tubing, sandy-beach relaxing near Burlington
Not a traditional swimming hole in the carved-rock sense, the Winooski Footbridge spot is a local favorite for its small sandy beach and its bridge — a launching point for anyone willing to make the jump. The river drops off sharply near the bridge, making it swimmable even close to shore.
If jumping isn’t your thing, this is a solid spot for floating on a tube or inflatable raft, or simply setting up a chair on the sand and watching others take the plunge.
Water depth: Deep near the bridge; drops off quickly from shore
Bridge jumping: Yes — moderate height, not for the faint of heart
Parking: There’s a designated lot just off Route 2. Plan a roughly quarter-mile walk along a trail through dense forest to reach the swimming spot. Pack light and bring bug spray.
What to pack for a day at a Vermont Swimming Hole
You don’t need much — but the right gear makes the difference between a great day and a soggy, uncomfortable one.
- Water Shoes -Rocky riverbeds are slippery and uneven; water shoes protect your feet and improve grip
- Soft-sided backpack cooler— Easy to carry on the trail, keeps drinks cold all day
- Low-profile beach chair — Lightweight and packable; doubles as a chair you can wedge right into the shallows
- Waterproof Phone Case – Essential near the water
- Sunscreen – Even on cloudy days, UV exposure on the water adds up fast
- Bug Spray – Particularly important for wooded spots like the Winooski Footbridge trail
- Towel & Dry Bag – Keep a change of clothes dry on the hike in
Tips for Visiting Vermont Swimming Holes
- Go early or on weekdays. Popular spots like Bolton Potholes fill up fast on sunny weekend afternoons. Arriving by mid-morning gives you first pick of the best rocks.
- Check water levels before you go. Vermont rivers fluctuate significantly with rainfall. After heavy rain, water can run fast and deep — conditions that make swimming dangerous, especially near waterfalls. Many swimming holes are best visited a day or two after rain has passed.
- Leave no trace. Vermont’s swimming holes are on public land or private land with informal access. Pack out everything you bring in, avoid disturbing wildlife, and respect any posted signs. These spots stay accessible because visitors treat them well.
- Water temperature. Vermont mountain water stays cold. Even in August, river temps at shaded spots can feel bracing. Give yourself a few minutes to adjust before swimming hard.
- Cliff and bridge jumping. Jump only if you can clearly see the bottom or know the depth from a reliable local source. Rocks shift seasonally, and water levels change what’s safe from one visit to the next
Frequently Asked Questions About Vermont Swimming Holes
- Are Vermont swimming holes free?
Most are free to access, though some trailheads have small parking fees. Always check current conditions before visiting, as access rules can change seasonally. - What is the best time of year to swim in Vermont?
Late June through mid-August offers the warmest water temperatures and the most reliable weather. July is peak season for most swimming holes. - Are Vermont swimming holes safe for kids?
Many spots — including the wading areas at Bristol Falls and Fosters — are great for families with children. Stick to shallow, calm sections and avoid fast-moving water near waterfalls. - Can you camp near Vermont swimming holes?
- Dispersed camping is not generally permitted at most swimming holes. Vermont has excellent state park campgrounds nearby — including Underhill State Park and Little River State Park — that pair well with a day trip to a swimming hole
Please use caution and swim at your own risk – Vermont’s swimming holes are living, changing places. Water levels, access, and parking rules shift from season to season. Always verify current conditions locally before visiting, and practice leave-no-trace principles to keep these spots accessible for everyone.
See more Vermont Swimming Holes here.
