Vermont swimming holes are a popular pastime when the weather starts to warm up, and luckily for us, the Green Mountain State has plenty of places to make a splash in this summer. Grab your swimsuit and don’t forget your sunscreen; these swimming holes are sure to become your favorite destination this summer.

1. Bingham Falls, Stowe
Bingham Falls, Stowe, VT 05672, USA
swimmingholes.org
To get to Bingham Falls, you'll need to hike one mile down a fairly steep trail, but you'll be rewarded when you see the stunning 30-foot waterfall. People have slipped, so be careful at this Vermont swimming hole - strong swimmers only!
2. Dog River, West Berlin
Dog River, Vermont, USA
swimmingholes.org
Be careful hiking down a steep embankment to get to this gem of swimming holes in Vermont. Whether you like large, shallow pools or if you’re looking to check out the two-person Jacuzzi spot, you’ll love the water chute that varies from five to eight feet (depending on the season), which pours you into the swimming hole. For the more adventurous, there is a side rock cliff for jumping that is about 20 feet into deep water. Get more details on visiting Dog River.
3. Bristol Falls, Bristol
Bristol, VT 05443, USA
swimmingholes.org
There’s nothing like swimming around a natural waterfall, and the drop at Bristol Falls is a long, deep channel with many different jumping spots along the way. Check this place out for some of the best Vermont swimming and you’ll see why it’s so popular with the locals.
4. Buttermilk Falls, Ludlow
Buttermilk Falls, Ludlow, VT 05149, USA
swimmingholes.org
Three falls in separate areas create a mecca of Vermont swimming holes and areas to relax and swim the day away. Buttermilk Falls and the swimming areas are now preserved thanks to the Vermont River Conservancy.
5. Cavendish Gorge, Cavendish
Cavendish Gorge, Cavendish, VT 05142, USA
swimmingholes.org
This is a great swimming hole that’s a little off the beaten path. Check out where the Black River spills over a dam and goes through this rugged and secluded gorge. There is a ton to explore here with plenty of privacy. Please use caution when entering the gorge. Find out more about Cavendish Gorge.
6. Devil's Gorge, Clarendon
Clarendon, VT, USA
swimmingholes.org
You'll have to work to reap the rewards of this sweet Vermont swimming spot. After a hike and a swim upstream from Clarendon's Gorge (a relatively long trek) you'll be rewarded with this private spot. And be sure to check out Clarendon Gorge too while you are at it.
7. Warren Falls, Waitsfield
Warren Falls, 3919 Vermont Rte 100, Warren, VT 05674, USA
swimmingholes.org
One of the best Vermont swimming holes, Warren Falls is a definite favorite.
8. Marble Street Quarry, Rutland
Marble Street Quarry, 2703-2135 Marble St, West Rutland, VT 05777, USA
swimmingholes.org
Enjoy the beautiful surroundings while relaxing in this abandoned quarry in Rutland. If the calming waters of this quarry entice you, consider heading up to the Darby Quarry, one of the largest attractions in Vermont.
9. East Middlebury Gorge, Middlebury
East Middlebury, Middlebury, VT 05753, USA
swimmingholes.org
You'll find places to jump and a swimming hole below the Route 125 bridge in this narrow gorge. If you have a sweet tooth, consider making a stop at Middlebury Sweets, which is not too far from here.
10. Pikes Falls, Jamaica
Pikes Falls, Jamaica, VT 05343, USA
swimmingholes.org
Pikes Falls is a great Vermont swimming spot for the entire family to enjoy. The entire swimming hole is about 25 feet long and 40 feet wide, with a depth of about 10 feet.
11. Kenneth Ward Memorial Access Area, Moretown
Kenneth Ward Park, 4806 VT-100B, Middlesex, VT 05602, USA
swimmingholes.org
There is a lot to explore in this area, which has the warmest water in the Mad River (don't get us wrong - it's still cold!). Easy parking and access makes this a fun destination and place to stretch your legs. Another cool place in Moretown is the Vermont Icelandic Horse Farm.

Where are some of your favorite spots for Vermont swimming? Tell us in the comments!

For the more daring, check out cliff jumping in Vermont. And if you’d rather play it safe, here are some awe-inspiring Vermont waterfalls hiding in plain sight.

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Jackie Ann | May 12, 2022

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