Scenic Waterfall Hikes with Swimming Spots Across New England

Looking for that perfect summer adventure where you can hike to stunning waterfalls and then cool off with a refreshing swim? New England’s lush forests and rugged mountains are home to some incredible waterfall swimming holes that let you connect with nature in the most delightful way.

The best waterfall hikes in New England offer both scenic beauty and natural swimming areas where you can relax after your trek.

Options range from easy family-friendly paths to more challenging adventures for experienced hikers.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a day trip, these natural treasures provide the perfect escape from summer heat.

Here are a few magnificent waterfall hikes in New England where you can both admire cascading waters and take a revitalizing dip. Each location has its own unique charm, from the thundering 90-foot Arethusa Falls in New Hampshire’s White Mountains to the serene pools at Green Falls in Maine’s Baxter State Park.

Want a side-by-side comparison? Head to the end for a detailed comparison sheet of these breathtaking waterfall hikes (along with a map) you can explore and enjoy a refreshing swim.

Discover New England’s Waterfall Treasures

A serene waterfall cascades through a verdant forest in Middletown, Connecticut.

New England’s landscape is dotted with stunning waterfalls where you can cool off during warm months. These natural wonders offer both scenic beauty and refreshing swimming opportunities.

The Basin-Cascades Trail, NH

Located in Franconia Notch State Park, The Basin-Cascades Trail offers one of the most accessible waterfall experiences in New Hampshire. This moderate 2.6-mile round trip hike follows Cascade Brook, featuring multiple swimming opportunities.

The Basin itself is a 30-foot-wide granite pothole formed by glacial meltwater over thousands of years. It’s just steps from the parking area, making it perfect for families.

As you continue up the trail, you’ll discover several cascades with crystal-clear pools perfect for swimming. The views include dense forest, rushing water, and smooth granite formations.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Estimated time to Complete: 1.5 – 2.0 hours

Best features: Smooth granite formations, crystal pools

Swimming spots: Multiple natural pools along the cascades

The trail is well-maintained with wooden steps in steeper sections. Visit in early summer for the most impressive water flow while still enjoying comfortable swimming temperatures.

Arethusa Falls and Frankenstein Cliff, NH

This challenging 5-mile loop trail in Crawford Notch State Park rewards hikers with views of New Hampshire’s tallest single-drop waterfall. Arethusa Falls plunges dramatically nearly 200 feet down a steep rock face.

The hike climbs steadily through beautiful forest before reaching the falls. Several swimming holes form at the base during summer months. The cool mist provides welcome relief on hot days.

Continuing on the loop takes you up Frankenstein Cliff, offering spectacular views of Crawford Notch and the surrounding White Mountains.

Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Estimated time to Complete: 3.5 – 5.0 hours

Best features: Tallest single-drop waterfall in NH, mountain views

Swimming spots: Deep pool at the base of falls

The trail can be slippery after rain, so wear appropriate footwear. For a shorter hike, you can just visit the falls (2.8 miles round trip) without completing the full loop.

Bash Bish Falls, MA

waterfall, water, stream, nature, river, cascade, bish bash falls, motion, flow, woods, new england, rocks, stones, green water, green forest, green news, green waterfall, green river, green rock, green stone, green new, waterfall, new england, new england, new england, new england, new england

As Massachusetts’ highest single-drop waterfall, Bash Bish Falls creates a dramatic 80-foot cascade that splits around a large boulder before dropping into a deep emerald pool. Located in Bash Bish Falls State Park near the New York border, this natural wonder attracts visitors from multiple states.

The hike is relatively short (1.5 miles round trip) but moderately steep. The trail follows Bash Bish Brook through a hemlock-filled ravine.

Difficulty: Moderate

Estimated time to Complete: 45 min – 1.5 hours

Best features: Split waterfall formation, emerald pool

Swimming spots: Deep pool at base (swimming officially prohibited but many visitors wade)

The surrounding area offers picturesque views of the southern Berkshires. For more adventure, connect to nearby trails in Mount Washington State Forest.

Note that while many visitors enter the water, swimming is technically not permitted due to dangerous currents and underwater hazards. Enjoy the refreshing spray and beautiful scenery instead.

Glen Ellis Falls, NH

Located in Pinkham Notch near the base of Mount Washington, Glen Ellis Falls offers a relatively easy 0.6-mile round trip hike to a spectacular 64-foot waterfall. The trail descends via stone steps to viewing platforms.

The falls plunge dramatically into a deep, circular pool surrounded by mossy rocks and lush vegetation. The area’s microclimate supports unique plant life not found elsewhere in the region.

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time to Complete: 20 – 30 min

Best features: Dramatic plunge, circular pool, unique plant life

Swimming spots: Deep pool at base (use caution due to strong currents)

The viewing area provides excellent photo opportunities of the waterfall. The cool mist creates a refreshing atmosphere even on hot days.

While swimming isn’t officially sanctioned, many visitors enjoy wading in the downstream pools. Exercise extreme caution near the main falls as currents can be powerful and unpredictable.

Enders Falls, CT

chapman falls, waterfall, connecticut, water, devil's hopyard state park, devil's, ethereal, east haddam, nature, outside, outdoors, forest, trees, woods, countryside, beautiful, stream, creek, hdr, connecticut, connecticut, connecticut, connecticut, connecticut

Enders Falls in Granby, Connecticut offers five distinct waterfalls along a relatively short 0.8-mile trail in Enders State Forest. Each waterfall has its own character, from gentle cascades to dramatic plunges.

The moderate trail follows Enders Brook downstream, with side paths leading to each waterfall. The third and fifth falls are particularly popular for swimming, featuring deep pools with crystal-clear water.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Estimated time to Complete: 30 – 45 min

Best features: Series of five distinct falls, swimming holes

Swimming spots: Multiple natural pools, especially at third and fifth falls

The surrounding forest creates a secluded atmosphere despite the falls’ popularity. Large flat rocks around the pools provide perfect spots for sunbathing between swims.

The trail can be slippery after rain. Some sections require scrambling over rocks, so proper footwear is essential. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds during summer months.

Lye Brook Falls, VT

This hidden gem in Manchester, Vermont requires a moderate 4.4-mile round trip hike through Lye Brook Wilderness. The falls cascade approximately 125 feet down a series of rock steps through a gorgeous forest setting.

The trail follows an old logging railroad bed, gradually gaining elevation through northern hardwood forest. The final approach requires navigating some rocky terrain.

Difficulty: Moderate

Estimated time to Complete: 3.0 to 4.0 hours

Best features: Multi-tiered cascade, wilderness setting

Swimming spots: Several small pools along the cascade

The surrounding Green Mountain National Forest offers spectacular views, especially during fall foliage season. The wilderness designation means this area remains largely undeveloped.

While not the largest swimming areas in New England, the small pools along Lye Brook provide peaceful spots to cool off after your hike. The relative seclusion means you might have them all to yourself on weekdays.

Stepstone Falls, RI

Located in the Arcadia Management Area, Stepstone Falls offers an easy 2.7-mile round trip hike to a series of gentle cascades and pools perfect for wading. This Rhode Island gem flows over multiple stone steps, creating a picturesque waterfall experience.

The well-maintained trail follows the Falls River through a mixed hardwood forest. Several wooden bridges cross the river, providing different viewpoints of the falls.

Difficulty: Easy

Estimated time to Complete: 55 min

Best features: Series of stone steps creating gentle cascades

Swimming spots: Multiple shallow pools ideal for wading

This family-friendly

Hike Difficulty and Accessibility

Beautiful autumn view of a covered bridge surrounded by fall foliage in Lincoln, New Hampshire.

When planning your waterfall adventures in New England, it’s important to know what you’re getting into. The region offers hikes for all skill levels – from easy walks to challenging treks.

Easy Hikes (1-2 miles, minimal elevation gain)

Bingham Falls (Stowe, VT) – A short 0.5-mile trail suitable for families with children
Diana’s Baths (North Conway, NH) – Mostly flat 0.3-mile walk on a well-maintained path
Jewell Falls (Portland, ME) – Urban waterfall with accessible trails

Moderate Hikes (2-5 miles, some elevation changes)

Dunn Falls (Andover, ME) – Requires navigation over some rocky terrain
Little Wilson Falls (Elliotsville, ME) – Features some steeper sections but manageable for most hikers
Crystal Cascade (Mt. Washington area, NH) – Part of longer trails but can be reached via shorter routes

Challenging Hikes (5+ miles, significant elevation gain)

North Moat Mountain with Diana’s Baths (NH) – 10.2-mile semi-loop with steep sections
Katahdin Stream Falls (Millinocket, ME) – Part of more strenuous mountain trails

Many falls have limited winter accessibility due to ice and snow. Spring brings high water flow but muddy trails. Summer is perfect for swimming but brings crowds. Fall offers beautiful foliage with comfortable hiking temperatures.

Always check recent trail conditions before you go. Some falls require entrance fees or have limited parking, especially at popular spots during peak seasons.

Natural Beauty and Views

Scenic autumn view of a river with rocks and colorful foliage in Campton, New Hampshire.

New England’s waterfall hikes offer stunning natural beauty that changes with the seasons. The visual experience at these spots goes beyond just the falling water.

In spring, witness the powerful rush of waterfalls at maximum flow from snowmelt. Summer brings lush green surroundings with perfect swimming conditions in the clear pools.

Fall transforms these areas into colorful wonderlands. The waterfalls in New England become framed by brilliant red, orange, and yellow foliage, creating picture-perfect scenes.

You’ll find various waterfall types throughout the region. Some cascade gently over multiple tiers while others plunge dramatically from tall cliffs.

What to look for at each waterfall:

Rock formations shaped by centuries of flowing water
Natural pools with crystal clear water
Surrounding forest ecosystems
Unique geological features
Wildlife that calls these areas home

Many hikes offer multiple viewing angles of the falls. You can often see them from above, below, or even walk behind some waterfalls for a unique perspective.

The sound experience is just as important as the visual one. The peaceful white noise of falling water creates a naturally calming environment perfect for relaxation.

Pack a camera to capture these moments, but remember to spend time simply enjoying the views without technology. The natural beauty of New England waterfalls creates memories that last far longer than photographs.

Swimming Holes and Relaxation Spots

An adult man joyfully splashing water in a natural rock pool, creating a splash. Perfect summer outdoor activity image.

New England’s waterfalls offer more than just scenic views – many have amazing swimming holes where you can cool off after a hike. These natural pools are perfect for relaxation on hot summer days.

Warren Falls in Vermont features multiple swimming holes with crystal-clear water. The jade-green pools are surrounded by smooth rock ledges that make great spots for sunbathing or jumping.

At Bristol Falls (also known as Bartlett Falls) in Vermont, you’ll find a deep pool below the falls. The area has good ledges for jumping into the refreshing New Haven River.

Diana’s Baths in North Conway, NH offers shallow pools perfect for families. The cascading water creates natural water slides that kids love to play on.

Sculptured Rocks in Groton, NH features unique geological formations with deep, cool pools carved into the bedrock. The swirling water has shaped smooth swimming holes over thousands of years.

Bear Hole Reservoir in Massachusetts provides a relaxing trail with gentle pools. It’s less crowded than other spots, giving you more peace and quiet.

Remember to always treat these natural areas with respect. Pack out all trash, avoid using soap in the water, and be careful when jumping – always check water depth first!

The best time to visit these swimming holes is July through early September when water temperatures are most comfortable.

Conservation and Wildlife

When visiting these beautiful waterfall hikes in New England, it’s important to remember you’re a guest in nature’s home. The ecosystems around waterfalls are particularly fragile and host unique plant and wildlife communities.

Leave No Trace principles should guide your visit. Pack out everything you bring in, and consider picking up any litter you find along the trail.

Many of these waterfall areas are protected within state parks or conservation lands. Entry fees for these parks often support ongoing conservation efforts and trail maintenance.

Wildlife you might encounter around New England waterfalls includes:

White-tailed deer
Black bears (from a distance!)
Various bird species
Small mammals like chipmunks and squirrels
Amphibians near water sources

Water quality is another important consideration. Many of these swimming holes rely on clean, uncontaminated water. Avoid using soaps or lotions before swimming, as these can harm aquatic life.

Seasonal awareness matters too. Spring brings delicate wildflowers while fall foliage creates stunning backdrops for waterfalls. Try to stay on marked trails to protect these natural features.

Several waterfall areas, like those in the White Mountains, are part of broader watershed protection efforts. Your respectful visit helps ensure these natural treasures remain pristine for future generations.

Remember that water levels change seasonally. High water in spring creates spectacular falls but can be dangerous for swimming. Late summer typically offers safer swimming conditions with gentler water flow.