Refresh, Relax
& Recharge…
Is there anything more quintessentially Vermont on a warm summer day than venturing to a
swimming hole and feeling the exhilarating rush of icy, mountain-fed water before
stretching out on a sunbaked rock? We think not. So, here are a few of Central
Vermont’s hottest spots for cooling off.
Bingham Falls, Stowe
A 40-foot waterfall, surrounded by deep gorges and pools,
awaits visitors to this 72-acre property in the Mount Mansfield State Forest.
Gaze at the red maple, birch, beech and hemlock trees as you dry off after a
dip into the brisk waters.
Lake Groton, Groton
Also known as Groton Pond, this 400-plus acre stretch of
water in the Groton State Forest has several parks for launching into the blue,
but one of the best is Boulder Beech State Park, which offers sandy shores,
shallow waters for wading and access to the nearby Groton Nature Center.
The Mill, Worcester
This swimming hole has many sides, from the colorful,
graffiti-covered concrete dam and piles of boulders to pools of water as deep
as 12-feet. It’s an off-the-beaten-path destination for those who have
experienced other, more popular locations.
Warren Falls, Warren
Here, a short
hike along a trail leads to teal-blue tumbling waters, pools from a foot to 10-feet
deep, and breathtaking rock formations. Brave the 20-foot drop or simply marvel
at the spot that’s been called one of New England’s ten best swimming holes by Yankee Magazine.
Waterbury Reservoir,
Waterbury
Oh what fun it is to paddle, swim, and soak up the sun at
this placid, L-shaped body of water a stone’s throw from the shops and
restaurants of Waterbury and Stowe. Pack a picnic to spread out on the
brown-sugar beach, and a ball for playing catch.
West Branch River,
Stowe
As it snakes its way through the village of Stowe, the West
Branch River also reveals several swimming holes for dipping hot toes after a
day hiking in the mountains. Skip rocks and bring Fido for a swim, too.
Where is your favorite spot to cool off? Let us know in the comments!
