Discover a mountain oasis: Dive into New England’s best hidden swimming holes

A family explores a scenic watering hole in the Rangeley region of Maine. (Visit Maine)

While the New England coast boasts many fine ocean beaches (and in the interior, hundreds of lakes, both large and small) there’s something special about seeking out swimming holes in the mountains. These hidden gems offer a sanctuary from the summer heat while often providing spectacular views, both panoramic and intimate. Whether it’s just cooling off in a knee-deep pool, swimming in a quarry, or rope-swinging into a deep swimming hole, these spots, found off-the-beaten path, provide a unique kind of hangout. Here is a small sampling of the many swimming holes around the north country.

Pike’s Falls, Jamaica, Vt.

It’s a short but somewhat steep hike to the base of this 20-foot cascading waterfall, dropping into a beautiful swimming hole. The crystal-clear pool measures about 40 feet by 25 feet, with a depth of about 10 feet. Flat rocks provide a surface to relax after enjoying a dip. Find location and more at newenglandwaterfalls.com/vt-pikesfalls.html. 

Buttermilk Falls, Ludlow, Vt.

Take a detour, about  a half-mile, off Buttermilk Falls Road to arrive at both the upper and lower falls. The upper falls, with two 12- to 15-foot drops, flows into a large swimming hole below. The lower falls spill into a 25-foot pool of clear water. Cliff jumping is possible if the water depth is sufficient. vermontriverconservancy.org/sites/buttermilk-falls

Sculptured Rocks, Groton, N.H.

The Cockermouth River plunges through a 30-foot high gorge, creating a succession of pools. One of New Hampshire’s most dramatic swimming holes, it was formed over 12,000 years, since the last Ice Age ended by sediment and fast-flowing water cascading over the rocks. nhstateparks.org/find-parks-trails/sculptured-rocks-natural-area

Diana’s Baths, Bartlett, N.H.

You’ll find 75-foot high waterfalls at this popular Mount Washington Valley gathering spot. It’s an easy and flat half-mile from the parking lot off West Side Road to the falls. Part of the U.S. National Forest System, the waterfall is spectacular in spring when water is high, best in summer for cooling off in the pools. Dog friendly. northconwaynh.com/dianas-baths

Green Island Quarry, Stonington, Maine

A 47-acre island located a half-mile off the coast of Stonington, Green Island is reachable via paddle or boat. Land a kayak or tie up at the wharf on the southeast side. Follow the Green Island Preserve sign to a loop trail, the meadow and the swimming hole in an old quarry. There you’ll find clear, clean water — deeper than many other swimming holes — and rope swings. vladi-private-islands.de/en/island-archive/archive/usa/maine/green-island-archive