Vermont's Popular Swimming Hole Is A Natural Water Park With Slides And Waterfalls

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Winter sports enthusiasts may bemoan the warm weather that brings snowmelt to Vermont, but as the snow recedes, the annual melt breathes new life into another spectacular natural phenomenon — waterfalls. While most falls remain active year-round — even sections that freeze can turn into stunningly abstract ice sculptures — spring into early summer is when the winter run-off ups the ante. Vermont is home to dozens of waterfalls, a natural effect of its mountainous landscape, but some stand out for being both accessible and approachable. Warren Falls in Warren, Vermont fits into that category. 

Currently owned by the US Forest Service, the falls are open to the public. That wasn't always the case. Prior to the mid-1990s, Warren Falls was part of a privately owned parcel of land. While the owner posted no-trespassing signs, he didn't make much of an effort to enforce the ban on foot traffic. That changed when he decided to sell the 79-acre parcel and officially closed off access to the site. The details are onerous, but ultimately a local ski area negotiated a deal that included selling a portion of the land to the US Forest Service. Then the surrounding communities kicked into high gear and, through grassroots fundraising efforts, collected enough money to complete the purchase.

For a while, Warren Falls remained a well-kept secret, frequented by locals who knew the enchanting landscape was just a stone's throw from one of Vermont's most well-traveled byways, but out of sight to anyone who didn't know it was there. The dawn of social media in the early-2000s changed that as visitors, mesmerized by the magical setting, began to share photos. And the rest, as they say, is history.

Warren Falls may no longer be a secret hideaway, but it's still a gorgeous — and swimmable — landscape where water flows over and pools in natural rock basins to create the ultimate summer swimming hole. Located just off Route 100 about a mile and a half south of Warren, Vermont — a picture-perfect New England village — Warren Falls comprises three tiers of waterfalls that cascade into natural basins formed by the force of the water.

The calmer pools are perfect for dipping on a hot summer day, but danger lurks. The siren song of the waterfalls lure daredevils to jump from ledges into pools that can be up to 20-feet-deep. It may look exciting, but it's a dangerous endeavor. In August 2024, a 35-year-old New Jersey man fell to his death while exploring the falls. Heavy rains the previous day had caused the river to swell and water was running high.  Proceed with caution and a healthy respect for the powerful forces of nature that combine to create the stunning setting. You may also want to read up on the best way to keep your family safe while visiting waterfalls during monsoon season.

Be sure to bring along a few essentials to ensure a fun and pleasant experience. Bug spray, snacks, water, and a camera are no-brainers, but consider packing a pair of water shoes, too. They may not be the most stylish accessory, but they make walking across slick rock surfaces easier. As tempting as it may be to jump right in, take time to scope out the area before taking the plunge. And think twice before memorializing your visit with a rock cairn. The "Kilroy Was-Here"-esque piles of stone diminish the authenticity of the natural landscape. 

Warren Falls is a destination unto itself, but the surrounding area is so chock-full of New England charm that it's worth staying around to explore its highlights. Located about a mile north of Warren Falls, the Warren Covered Bridge, aka Lincoln Gap Bridge, is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1880, it crosses the Mad River just south of Warren Village. Another quintessential New England spot, Warren Store is a blend of old-fashioned general store, corner grocer, local diner, and village bakery. The circa 1840 structure has, at various times, been a boarding house, gas station, and stagecoach inn. Another highlight of Warren Village, Art in the Village is a gallery showcasing works by local artists and artisans.

Also in Warren, Pitcher Inn is an 11-room inn and wellness center located on the site of a Civil War-era lodging house that was destroyed by fire in 1993. The property was rebuilt in 1997 with painstaking attention to detail, combining 18th-century authenticity with modern-day comfort and convenience. Plus, there's more than one waterfall in the vicinity. In addition to Warren Falls, you may want to check out Moss Glen Falls in Stowe, Vermont (a must-visit East Coast region for outdoor adventures), Texas Falls in Hancock, Vermont, and Bartlett (aka Bristol) Falls in Bristol, Vermont.

Located in Central Vermont, Warren is a reasonably easy-access destination. By car, it's about three hours from both Boston, Massachusetts and Albany, New York (home to one of the Empire State's most breathtaking state parks).The closest airport, Burlington International Airport (BTV), is about an hour from Warren.