Outdoor Recreation

Swimming

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Four people jump off a raft into the water on a warm day.

In the distance, three people are in a lake with mountains in the back.

Lakes, Rivers, Swimming Holes

Swimming on a Summer Day

After hiking, paddling, biking, or just touring around on a hot summer day in Vermont, few things feel as good as swimming in a lake, pond, river, or iconic swimming hole. Summer in the Green Mountains is calling, whether you spend the day at a state park or plunge into a deep, cold waterfall pool formed by glacial ice.

Top Attractions

With more than 802 lakes throughout Vermont, it’s easy to find a swimming destination nearby.

Bristol Falls

A 14-foot waterfall with a series of swimming holes is a naturally refreshing attraction near downtown Bristol.

Texas Falls

Potholes in the rock created by glacial meltwater at this waterfall in Hancock serve as great places to take a dip on a hot day.

Green River Reservoir

Swimming is popular at the Green River Reservoir in Hyde Park, especially at Green River Reservoir State Park.

Blanchard Beach

Located in Burlington’s Oakledge Park, this beach provides shallow access to Lake Champlain as well as amenities like a public restroom and convenient location along the Burlington Bike Path.

Lake Willoughby

Vermont’s deepest lake, Willoughby’s skyline is defined by the fjord-like peaks that frame it, mounts Pisgah and Hor. Formed by glaciers, this lake is a Northeast Kingdom destination.

Lake Bomoseen

The largest lake located entirely within Vermont’s borders, Lake Bomoseen is popular for swimming at locations including Bomoseen State Park and Crystal Beach.

Waterbury Center State Park

Swimming, fishing, paddleboarding, paddle-to campsites, and a gently sloping grassy picnic area make this a northern Vermont destination.

Harriman Reservoir

Bordered by the Green Mountain National Forest, this reservoir is a popular swimming destination.

A person swims while three others sit on the beach at a quiet lake.

A person carries a paddle board into the water on a sunny day.

Your Gateway to Swimming in Vermont

Vermont State Parks

Vermont’s 55 state parks are a gateway to some of the state’s best swimming for the whole family. Discover sandy beaches at lakes and reservoirs, places to cool off in rivers and swimming holes, and even a swimming pool with lifeguards. Additionally, many parks rent gear like stand-up paddleboards and paddle boats.

Learn More

You can swim into Canada on Lake Memphremagog.

– More Vermont Facts

As seen from above, a small town bordering a large body of water.

Vermont Lakes and Rivers

From plunging northern lakes surrounded by rugged mountains to a southern river with fish aplenty, find a shore in Vermont to cast your line, dip your paddle, or just grab a book and relax with a picnic.

Vermont River Conservancy

Working to protect Vermont’s waterways both for the wildlife that call them home and for public access. The Vermont River Conservancy shares a guide to waterfalls, gorges, and some of Vermont’s best swimming holes.