Best Waterfalls in Vermont: 22 Local Favorites & Hidden Gems

Vermont might well be one of the smallest states in the country, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in scenic splendor. Lauded for its vibrant fall foliage and green mountains, there is also a treasure trove of waterfalls in Vermont.

Have you ever wondered, "How many waterfalls are there in Vermont?" Well, did you know that there is one county in Vermont that boasts 16 wondrous waterfalls? Or that Moss Glen Falls has been hailed as one of the best waterfalls in the Northeast? Or that, despite often being written off as a state for winter recreation, there are abundant waterfall swimming holes in Vermont?

The Green Mountain State is full of surprises – beautiful, wonderful surprises – and today, we’re going on a waterfall-chasing tour de force to uncover the best waterfalls in Vermont.

Best Waterfalls in Vermont

From waterfall hikes and superlative cascades to clear-blue waterfall swimming holes and frozen falls, waterfall chasing is a 24/7/365 pastime in Vermont. These falls offer the perfect enticement to brave the elements of the Northeast.

Here at OnlyInYourState, our insatiable appetite for wanderlust keeps us going, and waterfall chasing is our favorite way to satisfy our adventure-seeking souls. And in Vermont, unlimited adventures – and waterfalls – await. Here are the best Vermont waterfalls that belong on every adventurer's bucket list.

1. Moss Glen Falls

Located in pristine Putnam State Forest, you’ll find what is easily the most acclaimed and astonishing waterfall in Vermont. Moss Glen Falls is a stunning 125-foot waterfall that features plunge, horsetail, and fan shapes. Easily accessible for most hikers, a short-and-sweet 10-minute hike will give you an easy trek to view from the middle viewpoint for peak waterfall viewing. Prefer to view the waterfall sans a hike? Moss Glen Falls is located right off of Vermont's scenic Route 100, and is easily accessible from the roadside.

2. Bristol Falls (AKA Bartlett Falls)

At 14 feet in height, Bristol (or Bartlett) Falls feeds into the New Haven River. The waterfall views and swimming hole make this a great spot for a family outing. Bristol Falls in Vermont is a great spot to simply relax and enjoy the sounds of the tumbling water. It's so close to Vermont Route 116, so it's no wonder Bristol Falls is one of the more popular waterfalls in Vermont to visit during summer road trip season!

3. Lye Brook Falls

The tallest and most commanding waterfall in Vermont, Lye Brook Falls, is 125 feet of pure natural beauty. This 125+ foot waterfall consists of several tiers of cascades and horsetails, making for a jaw-dropping scene unlike any other. The moderate, 1.8-mile hike is a bit rugged at times and rated moderate, but if you’re willing to lace up your shoes and hit the trails, you’re in for quite the treat. Add this one to the list of best waterfall hikes in Vermont!

Looking for a fun side quest? An hour away, head to Half Moon Pond State Park, a little-known Vermont state park with some of the best camping in the Northeast.

Top Waterfall Hikes in Vermont

Nothing compares to a hike with a waterfall -- especially in the Green Mountain State, where the lush landscape and dreamy scenery make for a wholly enchanting waterfall-chasing experience.

Every adventurer knows that some of the best places require some work to get to. It is deep within the woods where you find the pace of life slows down as you are surrounded by the beautiful scenery here in Vermont. There is also a sense of accomplishment when you finally arrive at the base of a gorgeous waterfall. However, the journey of getting there can be just as fun as the destination. For avid waterfall enthusiasts, the following waterfalls are considered to be the top waterfall hikes in Vermont; lace up your hiking boots and see if you agree!

4. Buttermilk Falls

From Bingham Falls to Lye Brook Falls and all the small ones in between (more on those in a bit), Vermont sure has some wonderful hidden gems in its backyard. One of the most underrated waterfalls in the Green Mountain State is Buttermilk Falls, a classic and stunning cascade that’s also, as it so happens, one of the best waterfall hikes in Vermont. Immensely beautiful, Buttermilk Falls is actually composed of a few different cascades. At the upper falls, you'll find a fairly deep olive-green natural pool and a 20-foot falls; the middle falls is a great place to hang out and swim due to its large and calming pool; further downstream, the lower pools and falls offer a more relaxing and secluded experience.

If you're game, New York’s lovely Lake George is a scenic 90-minute drive from Buttermilk Falls, and makes for an amazing weekend getaway for Vermonters!

5. Falls of Lana

Another immensely scenic waterfall hike in Vermont, you'll find beautiful horsetails and cascades at the Falls of Lana in Salisbury. Towering over 100 feet in height, this mesmerizing waterfall hike offers different vantage points which range from easily accessible vistas to harder-to-access overlooks suitable for more experienced hikers.

5 Minutes Away: Lake Dunmore is a mere five-minute drive from the Falls of Lana, and is a wonderful lake with clear-blue waters and a soft, sandy beach that’s a perfect summertime retreat in Vermont!

6. Smuggler's Notch

In Cambridge, Vermont, Smuggler’s Notch is a veritable treasure trove of waterfalls, with several cascades worth seeking out at this oasis. The falls are located within Smuggler’s Notch State Park, which has a nominal Day Use Fee. This Vermont State Park offers all sorts of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including bouldering, hiking, biking, cave exploring, and camping.

Within Smuggler’s Notch State Park is the half-mile hike leading to Bingham Falls known as, predictably, the Bingham Falls Trail; it’s pretty easy and appropriate for most hikers of all skill levels, and it’s so beautiful you might feel like you "cheated" by accessing it so easily! This is absolutely one of the best waterfall hikes in Vermont and a must for your bucket list.

Easy Waterfall Hikes in Vermont

There’s nothing like the thrill of the chase, and this most certainly applies to waterfall chasing.

However, novice or beginner hikers can still participate in the fun, as some of the best waterfall hikes in the Green Mountain State are also the most accessible. Certainly, hard work will come with a big payoff in most of life but that doesn't have to apply here. You can take a short trip if you are a beginner, short on time, or looking for a great waterfall, either way, these waterfalls are a must-see for anyone who loves to explore the great outdoors.

Take a look at the following easy waterfall hikes in Vermont; they offer immensely scenic payoffs for minimal effort!

7. Thundering Brook Falls

What makes Thundering Brook Falls stand out from other easy waterfall hikes in Vermont is the falls themselves. Thundering Brook Falls features a unique and striking rock pattern; the flow of the falls trickles down myriad natural stairs in perfect synchrony. The entire area is simply breathtaking, and there is a short and sweet half-mile boardwalk trail to reach the waterfall.

In addition to the waterfall trail, this area is popular among birders and wildlife enthusiasts. This half-mile trail is rated easy, and dogs are welcome as long as they remain on a leash.

15 Minutes Away: For those looking to hike a portion of the acclaimed Appalachian Trail, there’s an entry point just five miles from Thundering Brook Falls!

8. Old City Falls

While you can practically drive right up to the beautiful Moss Glen Falls in Vermont, there are some waterfalls that require a bit of hiking and searching. The path to Old City Falls isn’t as clearly marked as other waterfall hikes, but if you’re able to follow it to the secret waterfall, it will be well worth the search. The upper falls have a 45-foot drop into a cerulean blue pool, which makes for a refreshing swimming spot on hot summer days!

This short-and-sweet hike is easy; however, the walk down to the falls is rocky and can be a bit slippery, so wear appropriate footwear when visiting this hidden gem waterfall in Vermont.

Up for another adventure? Just 15 minutes away, Strafford, Vermont, is also home to an abandoned copper mine that’s rife with opportunities for exploration!

9. Bittersweet Falls

Bittersweet Falls is a quick-and-easy 0.2-mile in-and-out hike in Middlebury, Vermont. The flat path and short distance make the trail conducive for hikers of all different levels. In addition to the views along the trail, the highlight of this short and scenic hike is the falls at the end of the path; there are multiple vantage points to take in the cascades, which are at their fullest in the springtime. Along with enjoying the gorgeous waterfall views, this area is teeming with wildlife, so keep an eye out for frogs, fish, and myriad forest creatures!

This 0.2-mile hike is one of the best easy waterfall hikes in Vermont, and it’s a total hidden gem. And take note: as the water flow tends to be higher after a rainstorm in the spring and after a snowfall in the winter, these are the best times to visit Bittersweet Falls.

Looking for more Vermont waterfalls to chase? Nearby Addison is home to no less than 16 waterfalls, so stay and make a day of epic waterfall chasing in this incredible county.

No-Hike Waterfalls in Vermont

While we’re all for lacing up our boots and embarking on an epic waterfall adventure, sometimes, even the most avid waterfall chasers need a break from, well, the chase.

And of course, we happen to think these natural wonders deserve to be admired by everyone, not just pro hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. Even if you are an avid adventurer sometimes it's nice to just go for a drive, get out of your car, and stand in awe of some of our state's best waterfalls.

Luckily, there are some truly magnificent no-hike waterfalls in Vermont, just waiting to be admired! Here are some of our favorites...

10. Moss Glen Falls

One of the best and most accessible waterfalls in Vermont, those wishing to see the falls sans hike can head to the vantage points along Vermont’s Route 100. Moss Glen Falls is arguably the most wondrous "roadside attraction" in Vermont, boasting all the beauty of the state’s more elusive falls but with no hiking necessary. Moss Glen Falls is a stunning 125-foot waterfall that features plunge, horsetail, and fan shapes. While those looking for a hike can definitely find some beautiful trails nearby, there are also numerous vantage points along Route 100 that offer million-dollar views of Moss Glen Falls, no hiking necessary!

11. Middlebury Falls

Middlebury is lauded as Vermont’s very own waterfall town, and its centerpiece is the eponymous Middlebury Falls. This cascade is unique in that it’s a bona fide urban waterfall, and it’s the definition feature of Middlebury, Vermont. Framed by old brick buildings, a quaint collage, and a covered bridge, this is a delightful destination for those looking for the ultimate charming small town/waterfall chasing twofer!

Looking for more to explore? Middlebury is home to its very own vineyard that’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon in Vermont.

12. Vergennes Falls Park

Another beautiful urban waterfall in Vermont, Vergennes Falls, is a vision of breathtaking beauty! You'll find this Vermont waterfall located in the eponymous park, where there are picnic tables and grills for a relaxing meal with a view.The perfect backdrop for a picnic, take in the beautiful view of Otter Creek rushing between the buildings perched on rocky islands creating three segmented waterfalls that drop 37 feet in a huge splash. The park is equipped with picnic tables and grills just waterside so you can enjoy dinner with a view!

Vermont Waterfalls You Can Swim In

After a day spent chasing waterfalls all around the Green Mountain State, it's time for some R&R.

And you don't have to look elsewhere to find a tranquil slice of paradise; there are numerous Vermont waterfalls with cool, cerulean blue pools in which you can actually swim!

Yes, you read that right: even in the Green Mountain State, which is best known for its crisp autumns and snowy winters, when the summer heat kicks in (and it always does), there’s nothing better than a dip in one of these Vermont waterfalls you can swim in. So get ready to float in some clean mountain water and let it wash your cares away.

13. Warren Falls

Conveniently located along VT-100, Warren Falls is a great stop to check out a series of small waterfalls along the Mad River that are picture-perfect Vermont waterfalls you can swim in. A short path leads to a series of steep waterfalls with deep, shockingly blue natural swimming holes noted for cliff jumping. Since Warren Falls is a popular destination in Vermont when it's hot, plan to head here in the morning, preferably mid-week.

Important to note: While fairly easy to locate, set your GPS to 3919 VT-100 in Warren, Vermont, for the most straightforward directions.

14. Bingham Falls Swimming Hole

During the summer, locals flock to Bingham Falls for a cool dip in this waterfall oasis. The falls are located within Smuggler’s Notch State Park, which has a nominal Day Use Fee. If you're looking to make this adventure into a day trip, Woodstock is about 90 minutes away and is a one of Vermont's most charming small towns to visit.

Best Road Trips to Vermont Waterfalls

For those who live for the thrill of the chase, there’s nothing more exciting than an action-packed road trip adventure to some of the region’s finest falls.

Here at Only In Your State, we love nothing more than creating epic road itineraries and think you’ll find the following adventures to be among the best road trips to Vermont waterfalls. Pack your bags grab your friends and family and hop in the car for a good old classic road trip!

15. Ultimate Waterfall Road Trip

If you’re looking for the "best of the best" in terms of road trips to Vermont waterfalls, look no further. In this epic adventure, you will find some of the most beautiful waterfalls in this do-able Ultimate Waterfall Road Trip, which takes just over six hours of drive time from start to finish. Of course, with highlights such as Moss Glen Falls, Bingham Falls, and Bolton Potholes, you will definitely want to budget extra time to explore each wondrous waterfall along the way!

16. Northeast Kingdom Waterfall Day Trip

As one of the most picturesque spots in the country, Vermont’s Northeast Kingdom is known for its spectacular scenery throughout the entire year. This includes lush greenery, colorful foliage, gorgeous winter views after a snowfall, and some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Vermont, including one located right on the international border! When you visit this scenic part of Vermont, you’ll find that you can easily spend the day checking out waterfalls, which we outline in this Vermont waterfall day trip itinerary.

17. Vermont Weekend Waterfalls Road Trip

If you’re looking for the Goldilocks of Vermont waterfall road trips, this weekend adventure fits the bill. Longer than a day trip and shorter than a week-long journey, this short-and-sweet road trip visits seven stunning waterfalls, along with fun, only-in-Vermont points of interest along the way. Highlights include Thundering Brook Falls and Hamilton Falls, the latter of which often freezes over in the winter! As for attractions, you’ll visit Vermont icons such as the Trapp Family Lodge and Green Mountain Sugar House. What a fun adventure!

Hidden Gem Waterfalls in Vermont

There’s hidden beauty everywhere in the Green Mountain State, a place with verdant forests and cerulean pools that seem straight out of Middle Earth. This is especially true of the myriad hidden gem waterfalls in Vermont, which you’ll discover along the state’s waters and woodland.

Come along with us as we chase down some hidden gem waterfalls in Vermont!

18. Buttermilk Falls

For an adventure-filled day of waterfall chasing in Vermont, Buttermilk Falls in Ludlow is *the* spot to go. With several swimming holes and tons of outdoor activities for any season, you'll definitely leave the Okemo Valley with a smile. However, during the colder months of the year, there’s a serenity that descends upon this area that offers a quiet place for contemplation and reflection.

With various water features, Buttermilk Falls can get quite crowded during the summer months, but during the winter months, it’s an uncrowded hidden gem, especially as this half-mile waterfall trail is rated easy and considered accessible for most hikers. While you're in the area, stay and explore Ludlow, a charming little town in Vermont that will quickly feel just like home!

19. Big Falls

You’ll have to venture clear to the northernmost extremity of Vermont, but this cascade along the Canadian border is well worth the chase, right along the Canadian border. This 40-foot waterfall is considered one of the largest undeveloped waterfalls on a major river in Vermont, and it’s truly the definition of a hidden gem waterfall! Just note: while rge hike to the falls is a quick and easy trek from the parking lot, wear shoes with good traction, as the vantage points can be quite slick.

20. Emerson Falls

Perhaps *the* most elusive hidden waterfall in the Green Mountain State, Emerson Falls is so hidden, almost no one – even the most avid waterfall enthusiasts – has seen it in person. Intrigued? Just outside St. Johnsbury, Emerson Falls is a part of Sleepers River and is surrounded by the scenic landscapes for which Vermont is celebrated. Especially ravishing in the spring following a snow melt, Emerson Falls drops 25 feet in a series of cascades along a basalt slope and is a must for your waterfall bucket list. Because this waterfall is so little known, we wanted to show you just how beautiful it really is.

The town of St. Johnsbury, wherein Emerson Falls is located, is a small town in Caledonia County, Vermont, that was originally granted in 1760 as part of the New Hampshire Grants. Today, it’s a beautiful slice of the Northeast that’s known for its vibrant fall foliage.

Seasonal Vermont Waterfalls

While pretty much all of Vermont’s waterfalls are beautiful year-round, there are some seasonal standouts. The frozen falls of winter are something to behold, and when the snow begins to melt, the spring cascades come back stronger than ever. Summer means falls framed by verdant greenery, which, come autumn, transform into the vibrant fall foliage for which Vermont is well known. Here are a few seasonal Vermont waterfalls that are true standouts:

21. Waits River Falls

Vermont is a state known for its fearsome winters. Temperatures can positively plummet here. But all that cold weather comes with a major benefit – the natural beauty that snow and ice create! Yes, all the snow Vermont gets turns much of the state into an actual winter wonderland. Consider the waterfalls that dot the state. They’re lovely during the summer, but in the chillier months, they transform into something more otherworldly.

A waterfall on the Waits River is a must-see in particular, transforming into something otherworldly during the deep freezes common in the Northeast. Waits Falls are a collection of cascades in Bradford, Vermont, that seem to freeze mid-air in the winter. It’s a spectacular scene worth seeking out – and braving the cold for!

22. Bingham Falls

In terms of all-around seasonal all-stars, Bingham Falls wins. Not only is this waterfall swimming hole a summertime favorite, but for ardent waterfall chasers, these falls rush in a thunderous roar of power come springtime. An easy one-third-mile trail will take you to Bingham Falls, which is especially lovely once the winter snow begins to melt. You will be awestruck at the stunning plunges and cascades of this Mt. Mansfield State Forest wonder.

There is an embarrassment of riches in terms of natural wonders in Vermont – especially considering it’s one of the smallest states in the country. But what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in splendor, as evidenced by each and every one of the best waterfalls in Vermont outlined above.

So whether you’re looking to explore the eponymous Green Mountains of Vermont or the state’s pristine alpine lakes and lush forests, an epic waterfall-chasing adventure awaits…  right around the corner! Use our Interactive Map to customize your visit to each of the Best Waterfalls in Vermont covered above. Happy waterfall chasing!