Swim at This Iconic Emerald Green Swimming Hole in Maine for the Ultimate Outdoor Fun

Maine’s natural beauty has inspired artists and writers for generations, and it’s easy to see why—from gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean along the coast to lush forests throughout its interior, the Pine Tree State dazzles locals and visitors alike all 12 months of the year.

For a dip in summertime, there’s a long list of waterfalls and swimming holes throughout Maine, but my favorite is the lagoon-like Rattlesnake Pool in the woods near Stow. Its stunning emerald green water and always-shaded locale give off a particularly romantic and magical vibe—plus, it’s relatively easy to hike to.

This 2.1-mile out-and-back trail takes less than an hour total, and it never climbs higher than a 10% grade, or lower than -12%, with the first half being particularly wide and flat. The road to the free, small parking lot can be muddy or icy, and usually requires slow going. The best time of year to try it is early spring to mid-fall, or April through October. The trail and pool are not located in one of Maine’s famous state or federal parks but on private property, so it is particularly important to mind the clear trail markers and not stray from the path.

A quarter mile along Stone House Trail (the path on the left at the trailhead; the path on the right is private), you’ll come to a split. The trail to the right leads to Rattlesnake Flume, a scenic gorge approximately .3 miles away, but you should take the path on the left and follow the signs for around .3 miles if you want to go to the pool directly. There is a steep path down to the water, or you can cross the top of the fall and carefully take a more gradual climb down the mossy and slippery rocks.

Rattlesnake Pool is fed by a three-to-four-foot horsetail, like a mini waterfall, that flows from Rattlesnake Brook running through Rattlesnake Flume. Because the spot is always shaded, the surrounding rocks stay moss-covered, and the mountain water is stunningly ice-cold. The pool is approximately 12 feet deep at its deepest points, and there are a few places on the rocks above from which you can jump in. The pool is not very big, so a visit during the busier summer months may require some patience while you wait for your turn to take a dip. This gives you an ideal opportunity to practice your nature photography or enjoy an al fresco lunch under the tall trees.

If you’re in the mood for a longer hike, there’s a moderately difficult one to the summit of Blueberry Mountain that has an elevation of 1,782 feet. You can take a 4-mile loop that travels up the steeper White Cairn Trail, then along the Stone House Trail, with a stop at Rattlesnake Pool about a mile from the trailhead.

Is a visit to Rattlesnake Pool now on your Maine bucket list? Is there a different watering hole in the state you enjoy more? Don’t hesitate to share this article with a friend planning a trip to Maine!