Maine’s coastal wonderland means plenty of opportunities to enjoy the (often frigid) ocean waters we call home. Our lakes also offer tons of recreational activities but with slightly warmer waters. We’ve told you about both our beaches and lakes in the past, so we’re hoping you’ve had some time to explore. But, there’s one other way to enjoy the water that I love. Whether the summer heat has you wanting to cool down or you’re looking for great views in the fall or winter, heading to a swimming hole in Maine is always a good idea. Our waterfalls and rivers provide some of the best swimming holes in Maine. We’ve listed a few awesome options for you here.

1. Gulf Hagas, Piscataquis County
Gulf Hagas, Piscataquis County
Thomas Cook / Flickr
Located in Katahdin Iron Works State Park in central Maine, Gulf Hagas is known as the "Grand Canyon of Maine." After hiking the 8.6-mile loop, you can jump into one of the best swimming holes in Maine to cool off at the base of some of the falls. Read more about Gulf Hagas.
2. Coos Canyon, Oxford County
Coos Canyon, Byron, ME 04275, USA
George Keith / Flickr
This swimming hole is easily accessed by simply pulling off of the Route 17 Scenic Highway. The swimming area is a deep area within the Swift River and is nestled between two fairly steep sections of rock. It can sometimes be slippery to access, so exercise extreme caution when heading in. Then, once you're in, soak up the sun! Learn more about Coos Canyon.
3. The Cataracts, Oxford County
The Cataracts, North Oxford, ME 04261, USA
The Cataracts / Facebook
To fully appreciate the water flow at Maine swimming hole The Cataracts, a visit in the spring is best. The individual falls leading to the various pools are collectively about 100 feet in height. Enjoy swimming, splashing, and sliding around the rocks here. Check out more about The Cataracts.
4. Frenchman's Hole, Bethel
Frenchman’s Hole, Sunday River Rd, Newry, ME 04261, USA
Elien B / TripAdvisor
Frenchman's Hole is exactly what comes to mind when you imagine summer Maine swimming holes. Its high rocky ledges and deep, crystal water allow for some epic dives and the shallower upper pool is great for kids and taking a dip with your dog. If the water is running heavily, be very careful as it can be quite dangerous. Read more about Frenchman's Hole.
5. Rattlesnake Pool, Oxford County
Oxford County, ME, USA
Sean Munson / Flickr
This just might be the most magical of all the swimming holes on this list. The waters are completely clear and taking a dip almost feels tropical. As long as you can ignore the absolutely frigid temps that come with it. The pool is fed by Rattlesnake Brook and a mossy slide leads to it. The pool is actually on privately owned land, but the public is permitted to access it via a fairly easy hike very near Blueberry Mountain. Take the Stone House Trail in Evans Notch and veer off to hit the pool. Find out more information about waterfalls in Oxford County.

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6. Step Falls Pools, Newry
Step Falls Preserve, Newry, ME 04261, USA
The B's / Flickr
While you can't actually have a proper swim here, these pools are great for sliding down the very slippery rocks. Kids will love this and it's likely you'll end up spending an entire day splashing about. Learn more about Step Falls.
7. Ledge Falls Pools, Medway
Ledge Falls, Medway, ME 04460, USA
Tammi Thompson McAdam / Facebook
These falls are actually primarily some of the prettiest swimming holes in Maine, made more fun by the presence of rock slides. Located on the west side of Baxter State Park, you can see the area directly from the main road in the park. Bring flotation devices to make the slides even more fun! Read more about Medway.
8. Royal River Pool, Yarmouth
Royal River Park / Wildlife Refuge ., 111 E Elm St, Yarmouth, ME 04096, USA
A F / TripAdvisor
This very unofficial pool is part of the Royal River Park. Follow the path in the park to a small waterfall where you can spend some time in the water. Then go further down the waterway to find a much larger area which is nice for some actual swimming. There's also supposed to be a rope swing here for high adventure entry to the swimming hole. There is plenty of fun to be had in Yarmouth in any season of the year. Check out this fun and spooky tour of Yarmouth.
9. Houston Brook Falls Pools, Bingham
Houston Brook Falls, Pleasant Ridge Plantation, ME 04920, USA
Trypp Adams / TripAdvisor
This area boasts many pools along the network of Houston Brook Falls. You'll find the falls near Wyman Lake, where Houston Brook empties along the Kennebec River. Plan your visit by learning more about Houston Brook Falls.
10. Smalls Falls, Franklin County
Smalls Falls, West Central Franklin, ME 04970, USA
Neucrew / TripAdvisor
The swimming holes throughout Smalls Falls are fun for kids as well as adventurous grownups. The lowest pool can be accessed via the parking lot and the rest are just a short scramble up the rocks. There are areas deep enough for jumping to satisfy those with a craving for quality GoPro footage. You can take a fantastic waterfall road trip in Maine that starts right at Smalls Falls.
11. Three Pools, Swift River, Roxbury
Swift River Road, Swift River Rd, Roxbury, ME, USA
The B's / Flickr
Three Pools is a part of the Swift River and is located at the base of a small set of falls. Accessing it means parking along the road and walking towards the river. Of the hidden swimming holes in Maine, you'll especially love this one. As you get close, you'll find yourself at the ledge. Once you're there you'll love splashing around. Read more about Roxbury, Maine.

Here's a video that highlights the area:

The best swimming holes are often the smallest, hidden within our favorite forests. What is the best swimming hole you’ve found in Maine? Once you’ve explored the many incredible swimming holes here, make your way to the lakes for more waterfront fun.

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Swimming Holes in Maine

Michelle S | May 28, 2023

What are the most beautiful hikes in Maine?

The most beautiful hikes in Maine can be found in every corner of the state. Some of the most beloved include:

 

And, there are amazing hikes in Maine for every month of the year.

What are the most beautiful lakes in Maine?

The most beautiful lakes in Maine offer both beauty and fun. Here are a few to explore the next time you're looking to spend some time outside:

  • Jordan Pond, Acadia National Park: There's nothing like swimming in placid water surrounded by mountains!
  • Cobbosseecontee Lake, Kennebec County: This is an amazing place for appreciating underwater life as there is a reef beneath the surface.
  • Echo Lake, Acadia National Park: This beautiful lake is considered one of the clearest in the entire state.

 

If you love waterways, you'll definitely want to continue your explorations with some of these gorgeous lakes in Maine.

What are the best beaches in Maine?

While locals and even visitors may know the major beaches in our state, there are also lots of hidden beaches in Maine you should visit this season! Birch Point State Park Beach in Owls Head is so pretty you won't want to leave, so lounge on the sand all day long. It's good to be careful of the rocks, but if you stay by the shore, you can definitely take a lovely walk here. Roque Bluffs State Park is an amazing place to enjoy a tranquil day, as it's not typically too crowded.

 

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