TOLLES HILL DAM

About Tolles Hill Dam Swimming Hole

Tucked into the forested hills of central Vermont, Tolles Hill Dam on the Black River offers one of the region's most quietly rewarding natural swimming experiences. This is not a manicured beach or a crowded state park — it's a genuine backcountry find, where a functional flood control structure has, over time, become a beloved gathering spot for locals and adventure-minded visitors alike. The surrounding woodland feels unhurried and alive, and the sense that you've discovered something genuine stays with you long after you've dried off.

The Setting and Landscape

The Black River winds through a lush corridor of hardwoods and conifers, and at Tolles Hill Dam, the water pools with a calm authority that makes it irresistible on a warm summer day. The forested hillsides frame the scene on all sides, their reflections shimmering across the surface of the river. In summer, the canopy is thick and green, casting dappled shade over the banks. Come early fall, those same trees ignite in gold, amber, and crimson — making this one of those rare swimming spots that rewards a visit even after the water turns too cold to wade in. Birdlife is active throughout the warmer months, and if you're quiet and patient, you may spot deer or other wildlife moving through the undergrowth near the water's edge.

The Swimming Experience

The Black River runs cool and refreshing here — the kind of cold that wakes you up the moment you step in and feels absolutely earned on a hot August afternoon. As a dam and river site, water depth can vary depending on season and recent rainfall, so always assess conditions carefully before entering. The area is best suited for confident swimmers who are comfortable in natural, unmanaged water. There are no lifeguards on duty, and facilities are unknown, so you'll want to arrive self-sufficient — pack your own water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. What you gain in return is solitude, scenery, and the rare pleasure of swimming somewhere that hasn't been smoothed out for the masses.

Planning Your Visit

Access to Tolles Hill Dam runs through the flood control area and is reachable via Maple Street in Perkinsville. Expect a short walk from where you park to reach the dam itself — comfortable footwear is recommended, especially if the path is wet. The difficulty is rated moderate, primarily because navigating into the flood control area requires attention to directions. Fees and available facilities are currently unknown, so plan accordingly and leave the area exactly as you found it. The best time to visit is summer for swimming, early fall for the extraordinary foliage backdrop, and spring if you want to witness the river running full and energetic. Tolles Hill Dam sits conveniently close to the charming Vermont towns of Ludlow, Springfield, and Perkinsville — each offering dining, lodging, and a warm sense of New England community. Ludlow in particular, known as the gateway to Okemo Mountain, has a well-developed hospitality scene that makes it an excellent base for a weekend of exploring the region's outdoor gems.