Posted in Massachusetts Hiking, Nature, On The Water June 03, 2022 by

The Natural Swimming Hole Off The Appalachian Trail In Massachusetts Will Take You Back To The Good Ole Days

We here in Massachusetts are lucky to have no shortage of beautiful places to swim. However, it can get tiring wading through the crowds at popular beaches and seaside hotspots. When you’re in the mood for a good, old-fashioned country swimming hole, Upper Goose Pond in Massachusetts is just the thing. Here’s why you should check out this pretty spot this season.

Upper Goose Pond is a lovely rural swimming hole in the town of Becket. You can reach it via a quick and scenic hike through the woods.
AllTrails/Randy Rethemeyer
The pond is located just off the Appalachian Trail, which runs all the way through Massachusetts. Luckily, reaching the pond only requires a 3.4-mile hike from the parking area.
AllTrails/Branca D.
The Goose Pond Trail in Massachusetts is a short and sweet hike that's easy enough for even the youngest of nature lovers to hike on their own, so bring the whole family out for a day of fun in the sun.
Upper Goose Pond is a quiet spot that is just perfect for a quick swim or a lazy float. Wading out into the cool, clear water on a hot day is such a pleasure.
AllTrails/R P Hirt
With views like this, it's no wonder why it's one of the most beautiful natural swimming holes in Massachusetts.
There’s a small dock that can be used to launch canoes, kayaks, and small rowboats. Power boats are not allowed, though fishing is permitted.
AllTrails/Becca Mason
Even though this spot is truly beautiful, the short hike means it’s never crowded with swimmers or tourists. It’s ideal for those looking for a quiet country afternoon.
AllTrails/Tricia Vuong
The first few minutes of the trail to the swimming hole are adjacent to a highway, but the path quickly plunges into the forest. Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for some uneven terrain.
AllTrails/Tricia Vuong
There aren’t any changing facilities or bathrooms at the swimming hole, so plan accordingly. Families and furry friends are welcome!
AllTrails/Humberto Rosales

You can find out more about hiking to Upper Goose Pond in Massachusetts by visiting the pond and trail’s listing on AllTrails for additional photos, detailed hiking directions, and reviews by other hikers. What’s your favorite local swimming hole in Massachusetts? Share your hidden gems with us!

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Address: Upper Goose Pond, Massachusetts 01238, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

Upper Goose Pond in Massachusetts

June 08, 2022
Jackie Ann

Are there any good swimming holes in Massachusetts?

There’s nothing more refreshing than splashing the day away, and there are plenty of natural swimming holes in Massachusetts to enjoy. Tucked away in the Berkshires, Upper Goose Pond in Massachusetts is a hidden gem for those looking to cannonball into summer. For the more adventurous, Shelburne Falls is a natural swimming hole in Massachusetts that’s part of the Deerfield River and features many rocks and rugged terrain to sunbathe or jump off of.

Where can I find the bluest water in Massachusetts?

While we may not see the tranquil turquoise waters of the Caribbean, Massachusetts has an abundance of beautiful beaches, lakes, and rivers that have crystal clear water so clean you can see your feet and maybe even a fish or two. Brant Rock Beach in Marshfield is slightly off the beaten path and offers a beautiful beach to sunbathe while admiring the beautiful blue water of Massachusetts’ South Shore.

What are the most beautiful beaches in Massachusetts?

The Bay State's inspiring coastline boasts 1,500 miles of shoreside parks, salt marshes, and beaches that any nature lover would enjoy. There are several beaches in Massachusetts that are ideal for a summer day, and we’re not just talking about the Cape. Wingaersheek Beach in Massachusetts is a beautiful beach in Gloucester that’s a great place for finding sand dollars in between splashing around in the refreshing ocean.  If you’re wanting to get your steps in, you can’t go wrong with the six miles of beautiful, white sandy beaches at Duxbury Beach, which also has some of the best coastal sunrises in the state.