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About Adams Hole on Joes Brook

Tucked into the rolling hills of northeastern Vermont, Adams Hole is the kind of swimming spot that rewards those willing to seek it out. This unofficial natural swimming area sits along Joes Brook, a clear, cold-running stream that winds through the forested countryside connecting the communities of St. Johnsbury, East Barnet, and Danville. There are no signs pointing the way, no parking attendants, and no concession stands — just the brook, the trees, and the sound of water moving over stone.

The Setting and Landscape

The scene at Adams Hole is quintessentially Vermont. A natural basin, carved slowly over centuries by the patient work of erosion, cradles a pool of crystal-clear water beneath a canopy of hardwoods and conifers. In summer, the light filters green through the leaves and dapples the surface of the brook. The banks are natural and unmanicured — expect moss-covered rocks, tree roots at the water's edge, and the occasional glimpse of a white-tailed deer or woodland bird moving through the underbrush. The terrain leading to the water is uneven in places, so you'll want to watch your footing. Come fall, the surrounding hillsides ignite with brilliant reds, oranges, and golds, making this one of the more photogenic corners of the Northeast Kingdom.

Swimming in Joes Brook

Don't let the small size of a brook fool you — the natural basin at Adams Hole offers a genuinely refreshing swim. The water runs remarkably cool even during the hottest weeks of July and August, fed by shaded woodland tributaries that keep temperatures brisk. The clarity is striking: you can see straight to the gravel and smooth stone bottom below. This is brook swimming at its purest — no lap lanes, no chlorine, just cold, clean water and the gentle current pressing against you as you ease in. The pool is best suited for wading, floating, and leisurely splashing rather than distance swimming, making it an ideal spot for families with older children or adults looking to cool off after a hike. Note that there are no lifeguards or safety staff present, so swimmers should use good judgment and stay within their comfort level.

Plan Your Visit

Adams Hole is an unofficial site with no facilities — bring everything you need, including water, snacks, and a way to pack out your trash. The access road is unpaved gravel, so drive carefully and allow extra time. There is no fee to visit. The best time to come is during the summer months of June through August, when water levels are consistent and temperatures make swimming genuinely enjoyable. Fall visits are worth considering if photography or foliage-watching is your goal. The nearest towns — St. Johnsbury, East Barnet, and Danville — each offer places to grab a meal, fuel up, or find lodging before or after your visit. St. Johnsbury in particular, roughly the largest of the three, provides a full range of services and makes a convenient base for exploring this quiet corner of Vermont's Northeast Kingdom.

About Arlington Green, No Name Hole & Grout Pond: Three Vermont Swimming Gems

Tucked into the rolling hills and river valleys of southwestern Vermont, this trio of swimming destinations offers something for every kind of water-seeker — from families looking for a gentle, accessible splash to adventurers willing to push off the beaten path for a hidden reward. The Batten Kill River corridor and the Green Mountain backcountry set the scene: think moss-covered banks, the sound of moving water filtering through stands of birch and maple, and skies that seem somehow bluer once you're surrounded by all that green.

The Setting & Landscape

Arlington Green is perhaps the most immediately rewarding of the three spots. Situated along the Batten Kill River near a historic covered bridge, it carries the unmistakable charm of old Vermont — the kind of place that feels like it belongs on a postcard, except you're actually standing in it. The covered bridge frames the scene perfectly, its weathered timbers reflected in the clear, cool river water below. In late September and October, the surrounding hillsides erupt in fiery reds, burnt oranges, and gold, making this one of the finest spots in the region for autumn photography even when the swimming season has wound down.

No Name Hole lives up to its mysterious title. Reaching it may require a bit of off-road exploration and a willingness to follow faint trails, but the payoff is a more secluded, intimate experience away from the crowds. Wildlife sightings — deer at the water's edge, herons wading in the shallows — are more common here precisely because fewer people make the trip.

Grout Pond, the only officially sanctioned swimming area of the three, sits deeper in the Green Mountain National Forest. It's the most developed option, offering bathrooms on-site and even camping for those who want to make a full weekend of it.

What Swimming Is Like

The Batten Kill's waters are famously clear and cold, fed by mountain springs and shaded by a generous forest canopy. At Arlington Green, you'll find a mix of shallow wading areas and deeper pockets where jumping is part of the fun — an excellent combination for groups with both cautious first-timers and eager leapers. No Name Hole offers a similarly varied depth profile, blending shallow reaches with deeper pools. Grout Pond, as a pond rather than a river, offers calmer, slightly warmer water — ideal for longer swims or for younger children who prefer still water to current. July and August are the prime swimming months across all three locations, when water temperatures are at their most welcoming and the days are long.

Plan Your Visit

All three sites are free to visit, though fees may apply for camping at Grout Pond — check current Green Mountain National Forest guidelines before you go. Arlington Green and No Name Hole have no restroom facilities, so come prepared. None of these locations have lifeguards on duty, so swimmers should exercise appropriate caution, especially with children or in deeper water. The nearest towns — Bennington, Arlington, West Arlington, and East Arlington — provide dining, lodging, and supplies. Arlington in particular is a charming base camp, with easy access to the Batten Kill and the area's broader network of outdoor recreation. Whether you're making a day trip from Bennington or camping under the stars at Grout Pond, this corner of Vermont rewards the curious traveler generously.

About Benson's Hole

Tucked away along the winding course of Bromley Brook near Manchester, Vermont, Benson's Hole is the kind of swimming hole that feels like a secret worth keeping. Unofficial and unimproved, this natural gem rewards those willing to navigate tricky backroads and arrive self-sufficient. No signage, no parking lot, no concession stand — just cold, clear water rushing over smooth stones, hemmed in by the verdant hills of southern Vermont. If you crave the feeling of discovering a place rather than being delivered to it, Benson's Hole delivers in full.

The Setting and Landscape

Bromley Brook carves through a landscape that feels genuinely untouched. Overhanging trees filter the sunlight into shifting patterns on the water's surface, and the surrounding banks are thick with ferns, wildflowers, and the kind of moss-covered rocks that make every photographer reach for their camera. The swimming area sits in a naturally formed pool where the brook widens and deepens, offering varying depths that range from ankle-high shallows near the edges to deeper pockets toward the center. In July and August, the water reaches its warmest temperatures, making it ideal for a long, leisurely soak. Come early autumn, the foliage transforms the hillsides into a canvas of amber and crimson, and the combination of falling leaves and clear water creates scenery that's genuinely hard to beat. Wildlife sightings — songbirds, the occasional deer at the water's edge, dragonflies skimming the surface — are a regular feature of any visit.

The Swimming Experience

The water at Benson's Hole carries that unmistakable Vermont brook character: brisk even in midsummer, crystal-clear down to the rocky bottom, and refreshing in a way that no chlorinated pool can replicate. You'll feel the current gently moving around you as you wade in, the smooth brook-stones shifting slightly underfoot. The varying depths make it accessible for confident waders and comfortable for those who simply want to float in a quiet pool and stare up through the tree canopy. There are no lifeguards on duty and no safety infrastructure of any kind, so swimmers should honestly assess their own abilities and never swim alone. Children should be supervised closely, particularly near deeper sections.

Plan Your Visit

Benson's Hole is a free, unofficial site with absolutely no facilities on-site — no restrooms, no changing areas, no trash receptacles. Pack everything in and pack everything out. Sturdy footwear for the approach and a dry bag for your valuables are strongly recommended. Because directions can be genuinely tricky, do your research thoroughly before leaving home and allow extra time to locate the spot. The nearest full-service town is Manchester, Vermont, a charming and well-appointed destination roughly a short drive away, where you'll find excellent restaurants, lodging, and shops to round out your day. The surrounding Green Mountains region also offers hiking, waterfall chasing, and scenic drives that pair beautifully with a morning swim at the brook. Visit midweek if you can — this kind of spot rewards those who arrive before the crowd does.

About Brockways Mills Gorge

Tucked away in the green hills of southeastern Vermont, Brockways Mills Gorge is one of those rare places that feels like a genuine secret. Carved by the Williams River over countless millennia, this natural gorge reveals itself through a short woodland trail that winds through uneven, root-laced terrain before opening onto a scene of breathtaking geological drama. Towering rock walls, worn smooth and striated by centuries of flowing water, rise on either side of a river so clear you can count the stones on the bottom from the bank. This is an unofficial swimming area — no lifeguards, no concession stands, no crowds — just you, the current, and the sound of water moving through ancient stone.

The Setting and Landscape

The gorge itself is the star of the show. Geologically striking formations frame the Williams River as it cuts through the bedrock, creating natural pools and chutes that shift in character with the seasons. In summer, the canopy overhead filters the light into shifting patterns on the water's surface, while ferns and wildflowers press in close along the trail. The air carries a cool, mineral freshness even on the hottest July afternoons. Come autumn, the gorge transforms entirely — the surrounding hardwoods ignite in amber, crimson, and gold, their reflections shimmering in the river below, making late September and October visits equally worthwhile even without a swim. Spring brings thundering, high-volume flows that are mesmerizing to witness, though the water runs cold and fast enough to make swimming inadvisable until early summer.

Swimming the Williams River

When summer temperatures climb, the crystal-clear pools of the Williams River offer a genuinely refreshing escape. The water runs cold — fed by the hills and shaded by the gorge walls — so that first plunge is bracing in the best possible way. Natural rock formations create calm pockets suited for a leisurely float, while other stretches move with enough current to keep things interesting. The riverbed and surrounding boulders make for natural perches where you can dry off in the sun between swims. Wildlife is a constant companion here: you may spot herons wading in the shallows, listen to wood thrushes in the trees above, or notice the darting flash of native fish beneath the surface. The uncrowded nature of this spot means the experience feels intimate and unhurried — a genuine retreat into Vermont's wild landscape.

Plan Your Visit

Brockways Mills Gorge carries no entrance fee and offers no facilities, so come fully self-sufficient: pack your water, snacks, and a change of clothes. Wear sturdy footwear with grip for the moderate trail over uneven terrain — sandals won't serve you well on the root-crossed path. The best swimming conditions fall between June and August, when water levels are friendly and temperatures are warmest. The gorge sits near the town of Rockingham, Vermont, and is conveniently positioned between Brattleboro to the south and Springfield to the north, both of which offer restaurants, lodging, and a taste of authentic Vermont small-town life. Whether you're passing through on a road trip along the Connecticut River valley or making a dedicated day trip, Brockways Mills Gorge rewards the effort with an experience that feels far more remote than it actually is.

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.

About Cavendish Gorge

Tucked into the forested hills of central Vermont between the small towns of Cavendish and Ludlow, Cavendish Gorge is the kind of place that feels like a secret — even if you've driven past the turnoff a dozen times. Carved over millennia by the Black River, this dramatic gorge cuts through ancient rock with a quiet authority, offering one of the most visually striking natural swimming spots in the state. The site is unofficial, undeveloped, and entirely unmanicured, which is precisely what makes it so compelling.

The Setting and Landscape

Standing at the edge of the gorge, you're surrounded by sheer rock walls shaped by centuries of water and ice. The Black River moves through the cut with purpose, its clear, cool water catching light in ways that make the green depths look almost impossibly inviting. The natural rock formations here aren't merely a backdrop — they're the whole story. Boulder faces rise on either side, draped in moss and fern, while the surrounding canopy of Vermont hardwoods filters sunlight into shifting patterns on the water's surface. In autumn, those same trees erupt in reds and golds, making the gorge feel almost theatrical. In spring, the river runs fast and forceful, a reminder of how this landscape was sculpted in the first place. A historically significant power plant sits nearby, a quiet testament to the river's long-standing relationship with the communities it passes through.

Swimming at Cavendish Gorge

The water here is what you'd expect from a Vermont mountain river: cold, clean, and refreshingly clear. On a warm summer afternoon, sliding into the Black River feels like a reward well earned. The gorge setting creates natural pools where the current slows, giving swimmers a chance to float and look straight up at the rock walls and sky above. Because the site is undeveloped and unofficial, there are no roped-off zones, no shallow-end markers, and no lifeguards — you're responsible for reading the water yourself. The terrain near the gorge requires careful footing, and getting there involves a short hike along a grassy path before navigating natural ground close to the water's edge. It's rated moderate in difficulty, appropriate for reasonably fit adults and older teens comfortable with uneven terrain.

Planning Your Visit

There are no facilities on site — no restrooms, no parking infrastructure, no concession stands, and no fee to enter. Bring everything you need: water, snacks, footwear with grip, and a towel. Arrive early on summer weekends if you value a quieter experience, as the gorge draws a loyal following of locals who know a good thing when they see it. The nearest services, food, and lodging are available in Ludlow, a lively village roughly a short drive away that serves as a base for Okemo Mountain Resort visitors year-round, and in Cavendish, a quieter town with deep Vermont character. Whether you're making Cavendish Gorge the centerpiece of a summer day or a detour on a leaf-peeping drive, this unpolished corner of the Black River valley is worth every step of the trail.

About The Cornfield Swimming Hole

Tucked along the banks of the West River in southern Vermont, The Cornfield is the kind of place that locals whisper about and out-of-towners stumble upon with a mix of surprise and delight. There are no signs announcing its presence, no parking attendants, no concession stands — just the river moving through a landscape of stone, root, and sky. If you're looking for a genuine, unspoiled slice of Vermont summer, this is it.

The Setting and Landscape

The West River rolls through a corridor of mature hardwoods and open meadow, and at The Cornfield, you feel the full weight of that natural quiet. Depending on the season, the banks shift from the electric greens of June to the amber and crimson spectacle of early October. Birdsong fills the air, and if you sit still long enough, you're likely to spot a great blue heron working the shallows or a kingfisher darting low over the water. The terrain is raw and unmanicured — exposed roots, smooth river stones, and tall grasses define the shoreline. It doesn't try to be anything other than what it is, and that's exactly its appeal.

Swimming the West River

The West River runs cool and clear at The Cornfield, fed by Vermont's forested hills and moving at a pace that can shift dramatically with rainfall and snowmelt. In the heart of summer — particularly July and August — the current mellows and the water reaches a refreshing coolness that makes the heat of the day feel like a distant memory the moment you step in. You'll feel the smooth riverbed underfoot in shallower areas, while deeper pools invite you to float face-up and stare at a ceiling of leaves and open sky. Water clarity can be excellent in dry stretches, lending the scene an almost painterly quality. That said, river conditions vary: after heavy rain, currents can strengthen and visibility can drop, so checking conditions before you go is always wise. There are no lifeguards on site, and visitors should assess the water themselves before entering.

Practical Visit Information

Getting to The Cornfield requires a little patience and attentiveness. There is no marked entrance or formal parking area, and visitors park carefully along Route 30 and make their way to the water on foot across natural terrain. Facilities are nonexistent — no restrooms, no changing areas, no trash cans — so pack out everything you bring in. The site is free to visit and carries no formal sanction, which means the experience is entirely what you make of it. The best window for swimming runs from late spring through early fall, with June through September offering the most reliable combination of warm weather and manageable river levels. Arrive early on summer weekends if you prefer a quieter experience.

Plan Your Visit

The Cornfield sits within easy reach of Brattleboro, Vermont, a vibrant small city with excellent restaurants, independent bookshops, and a thriving arts scene that makes a full day or weekend trip well worthwhile. Whether you're driving up from the Connecticut River Valley or passing through on a longer Vermont road trip, pairing a swim at The Cornfield with an afternoon exploring Brattleboro's Main Street makes for a near-perfect summer outing. Come prepared, leave no trace, and let the West River do the rest.

About Dorset Quarry

Tucked into the gentle hills of southern Vermont, Dorset Quarry is one of those rare places where history and natural beauty collide in the most refreshing way possible. This is no ordinary swimming hole — it's the oldest marble quarry in the United States, carved out of the earth centuries ago and now filled with water so clear and still that the white marble walls shimmer beneath the surface like something out of a dream. Whether you're a longtime Vermonter or a first-time visitor passing through Manchester or Jamaica, this legendary spot has a way of stopping you in your tracks.

The Setting and Landscape

The quarry sits in a natural bowl of pale, striated marble, its walls rising dramatically from the water's edge and draped in summer greenery. Birches and maples crowd the rim, their branches arching overhead and casting dappled light across the surface. The contrast is striking — the cold geometry of cut stone against the soft chaos of the forest. In autumn, the foliage transforms the quarry into a painter's canvas, with crimson and gold leaves reflected perfectly in the still water below. Even on a busy summer afternoon, the sheer scale and silence of the space gives it a cathedral-like quality that quiets the chatter and slows the pace.

Swimming and Jumping

The water at Dorset Quarry is cold, clean, and bracingly clear. Fed by groundwater seeping through the marble bedrock, it carries that particular chill that makes the first plunge feel like a full reset — all the heat and noise of the drive up melts away instantly. Visibility through the water is remarkable, and you can watch the white stone walls descend into the blue-green depths below you. The quarry is deep, making it ideal for swimmers who want to actually swim, not just wade. Natural stone platforms along the edges provide ledges for jumping, and on summer weekends you'll find kids and adults alike taking the leap, their shouts echoing off the marble walls. There are no lifeguards on site — this is a swim-at-your-own-risk destination, and visitors should exercise caution, particularly with jumping.

Practical Visit Information

Dorset Quarry is private property, but the owners graciously allow public access — a tradition that locals deeply appreciate and visitors should respect. There are no facilities here: no restrooms, no concessions, no changing rooms. Pack what you need and carry out everything you bring. Parking is available on Kelly Road, and the access is straightforward with only minor terrain to navigate, making it suitable for most visitors. There is no confirmed entry fee. If you want to extend your stay, a commercial campground operates directly across the street, offering a convenient base for an overnight trip. Early mornings and late afternoons reward those who seek a quieter, more contemplative visit.

Plan Your Visit

Dorset Quarry is ideally positioned for a day trip or weekend adventure in southwestern Vermont. The charming village of Dorset itself is worth a stroll, with its historic inns and village green, while Manchester — just a short drive away — offers restaurants, shops, and the Hildene estate. Jamaica, to the northeast, serves as a gateway to Jamaica State Park and the West River. Whether you're based in one of these towns or just passing through, the quarry makes for an unforgettable detour that you'll be talking about long after you've dried off.

About Falls of Lana

Tucked into the forested hillsides near Middlebury and Salisbury, Vermont, Falls of Lana is the kind of place that feels like a secret even when you're standing in the middle of it. Fed by the cold, clear waters of Sucker Brook, this unofficial swimming destination draws hikers, families, and solitude-seekers who are willing to work a little for their reward. There are no signs directing you to a snack bar, no lifeguard whistles, no manicured lawns — just the sound of rushing water and the soft crunch of trail underfoot.

The Setting and Landscape

The approach to Falls of Lana sets the tone immediately. The trail winds through lush Vermont woodland, climbing through steep sections and navigating uneven, rooty terrain that keeps casual crowds at bay. As you push upward, the air grows cooler and more humid, and the sound of cascading water grows louder before the falls finally come into view. What greets you is a dramatic series of cascades tumbling over striking rock formations — ledges worn smooth by centuries of water — dropping into natural pools below. The geology here is rugged and photogenic, particularly in autumn when the surrounding hardwoods ignite in brilliant oranges and reds, turning every angle into a postcard. In summer, dense green canopy filters the light into dappled patterns across the brook's surface.

Swimming at Falls of Lana

The swimming pools carved out by Sucker Brook are the main attraction, and they deliver. Fed by a mountain brook, the water runs cold and refreshing even on the hottest July afternoons — the kind of cold that makes you gasp on entry and grin once you've adjusted. The pools sit beneath the cascades, framed by the same rugged rock formations that define the landscape. Natural rock slides add an element of playful adventure for those willing to explore. The water tends toward clarity you'd expect from a clean Vermont brook, and the surrounding rocks offer plenty of spots to stretch out and dry off in any sun that filters through the trees. This is an unofficial site with no maintained facilities, so visitors should come self-sufficient — pack out everything you bring in and practice Leave No Trace principles.

Plan Your Visit

Falls of Lana is best experienced during the summer months of June through August, when warm air temperatures make the cold brook water genuinely inviting rather than just bracing. Spring brings dramatically increased water flow and lush new growth, though the water will be significantly colder and trail conditions can be muddy. Autumn rewards photographers and foliage enthusiasts with exceptional color from September into October. The hike is rated moderate — expect steep sections and rocky footing, so wear sturdy shoes and bring water. There is no fee to visit and no facilities on site, so plan accordingly. The falls sit conveniently close to both Middlebury and Salisbury, giving you easy access to lodging, dining, and supplies before or after your hike. Branbury State Park and nearby Lake Dunmore are just a short drive away, making this an ideal anchor for a fuller day of Vermont outdoor exploration.

About Felchville Swimming Holes

Tucked into a quiet corner of Windsor County, the Felchville Swimming Holes along the North Branch Black River offer one of Vermont's most rewarding off-the-beaten-path water experiences. These are places you stumble upon and remember for years — crystalline pools carved by centuries of moving water, sheltered by a dense canopy of hardwoods and conifers that keep the air cool and the light dappled even on the hottest summer days. There are no crowds, no concession stands, no lifeguards — just you, the river, and the sound of water threading through ancient stone.

The Setting and Landscape

The North Branch Black River has done patient, beautiful work here. Over time, it has sculpted three distinct pools into the bedrock, each one a slightly different shade of blue-green depending on the angle of the sun and the depth of the water beneath you. The most celebrated of these is Twenty-Foot Hole, a name that tells you exactly what you're in for. Getting there requires a moderate hike along a trail that can turn slick and demanding after rain, so wear shoes with grip and plan accordingly. Once you arrive, the effort dissolves immediately. Lush forest presses in from every side, and the only sounds are birdsong, wind in the leaves, and the low rush of water. Wildlife sightings — herons, songbirds, the occasional deer — are common enough that it's worth pausing before you splash in.

What Swimming Is Like

The pools here are cold, clear, and genuinely refreshing. The blue-green tint of the water isn't a trick of light — it reflects real depth and clarity, the hallmark of a river that runs clean through undeveloped Vermont countryside. Swimmers can wade into the gentler edges or commit fully to a leap from the rocky outcroppings above. A natural rope swing adds a jolt of adrenaline for those who want it, and the jumping spots draw visitors who like their swimming with a side of spectacle. Because this is an unofficial site with no facilities whatsoever, you carry in everything you need and carry out everything you bring. There are no restrooms, no changing areas, no trash cans. Treat the place accordingly, and it will remain the wild retreat it is today.

Plan Your Visit

Swimming here is best from June through August, when air temperatures are warm enough to make the cold water feel like a reward rather than a shock. Late spring brings the river to its fullest and most dramatic, though current strength can make swimming less relaxed during peak runoff. Entry to the swimming holes carries no fee, though conditions and access can change, so asking locally before you go is always wise. The site sits near the small communities of Felchville, Reading, and South Reading, and the classic Vermont village of Woodstock is within easy reach for a meal, lodging, or an afternoon of wandering before or after your swim. Plan to arrive early on warm weekends — word about places this good tends to travel.

About the Floating Bridge on Sunset Lake

There are swimming holes, and then there are swimming holes with a story. The Floating Bridge on Sunset Lake in Brookfield, Vermont is unmistakably the latter. What you find here isn't just a place to cool off on a hot July afternoon — it's a living piece of American history, a rare engineering curiosity, and one of the most quietly magical freshwater destinations in New England. The bridge itself, which has spanned Sunset Lake in various forms since 1820, is the only floating bridge east of the Mississippi River, riding low on the water's surface so that waves lap gently over its planks when trucks rumble across.

The Setting and Landscape

Sunset Lake sits in the rolling hills of central Vermont, cradled by dense forest that shifts dramatically with the seasons. In July and August, the surrounding treeline is a wall of deep green, reflected in the lake's calm, clear water. Come September and October, those same hills ignite in amber, crimson, and gold, making the short walk to the water's edge feel like stepping into a painting. The lake is peaceful and unhurried — you're more likely to hear birdsong and the soft slap of water against the bridge's pontoons than any kind of crowd noise. The atmosphere here is distinctly Vermont: understated, genuine, and quietly beautiful.

What Swimming Here Feels Like

Sunset Lake offers the kind of freshwater swimming that reminds you why people seek out natural swimming holes in the first place. The water is cool and clear, with that characteristic crispness of a Vermont lake fed by mountain runoff. You can slip in from the bridge's edge — jumping is a popular option, though you should check depth carefully before leaping — or find a comfortable entry point along the bank. The lake bottom is natural and soft, the water refreshing without being brutally cold in peak summer. Because facilities are nonexistent here, you won't find rope swings, docks, or designated swim zones — just the bridge, the lake, and the sky above. There are no lifeguards on site, so swim with awareness and keep an eye on younger visitors.

Practical Information and Local Character

Access to the Floating Bridge is easy — no trail to hike, no steep scramble required. This is a roadside gem that welcomes visitors with minimal fuss. There is no fee to visit, but also no facilities whatsoever, so come prepared. Bring water, snacks, a towel, sunscreen, and anything else you might need. Pack out what you pack in. The site is unofficial, meaning there's no formal management or signage guiding your visit — part of what gives it that genuine, off-the-beaten-path character that regulars love. The annual ice harvesting festival held here in winter draws a loyal local crowd and speaks to the deep connection this community has with the lake and its unusual bridge.

Plan Your Visit: The Floating Bridge is located in Brookfield, Vermont, easily reachable from Montpelier — Vermont's compact and charming state capital — which sits roughly 12 miles to the northwest and offers restaurants, lodging, and supplies. Plan your visit between July and August for the best swimming conditions, or arrive in late September to catch the foliage at its peak.

About Four Corners Swimming Hole

Tucked into the rolling hills of Vermont's Northeast Kingdom, Four Corners is one of those rare swimming spots that feels like it belongs entirely to the locals — until you find it. Situated where the towns of Lowell, Troy, and Jay converge, this beloved unofficial gathering place sits along Bugbee Brook, a clear, cold tributary of the Missisquoi River. The brook tumbles over smooth ledges, carves out deep pools, and catches the light in that particular way that Vermont water does on a summer afternoon — all shimmer and green shadow. There are no signs pointing you here, no ranger station, no concession stand. Just the sound of rushing water and the occasional whoop from someone launching off the rope swing.

The Setting and Landscape

The brook runs through a landscape that shifts dramatically with the seasons. In summer, the surrounding hardwoods create a canopy of deep green overhead, filtering sunlight onto the water and the smooth rock ledges that line the banks. Those ledges — worn flat and warm by years of sun and current — are ideal for spreading out a towel and letting the afternoon pass slowly. Come early September, the foliage begins its transformation, and a visit to Four Corners takes on a different kind of beauty: the trees above the brook turning gold, orange, and red while the water stays cold and clear below. Keep your eyes open and you may spot wildlife along the banks — songbirds, the occasional great blue heron, or a deer picking its way through the understory on the far side of the brook.

Swimming, Jumping, and the Rope Swing

The water in Bugbee Brook runs cold and clean, fed by northern Vermont's hills and snowmelt. The swimming area features a satisfying range of depths — shallow riffles where younger visitors can wade comfortably, and deeper pools where stronger swimmers can submerge fully and feel the chill settle around them. The brook bottom is rocky, so water shoes are a smart addition to your pack. The natural rope swing is the undisputed centerpiece of the experience: a classic, unadorned thrill that draws grins from adults and kids alike. This is an unofficial, unsanctioned site with no lifeguards or safety staff on duty, so swimmers should use good judgment, check conditions before jumping, and keep a close eye on children at all times. Avoid the site during or after heavy rainfall, when water levels and currents can rise quickly.

Plan Your Visit

Four Corners is refreshingly easy to reach — the swimming hole sits directly across from a parking area, so there's no hike required to enjoy it. There are no facilities on site, so arrive self-sufficient: bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a bag for your trash. The site is free to visit. The best conditions run from late May through September, with warm summer days offering the most comfortable swimming. The nearby towns of Jay, Troy, and Lowell each offer a taste of authentic Vermont small-town life, and Jay Peak Resort — just up the road — provides a useful landmark for navigation. If you need supplies before or after your swim, the area around Jay Four Corners is your closest option for a quick stop. Lowell and Troy are both within easy driving distance for a meal or a place to stay.