Swimming holes are (not-so-secret) local secrets! On a warm summer day, if you see a line of cars along the river, chances are you’re close to a popular swimming hole, feel free to park on the shoulder and join the fun. The rivers in the area are rocky, so walk with care, or bring water shoes.
Quechee Gorge
There is a refreshing swimming hole at the bottom of an easy local hike. It gets crowded on a hot summer day. 20 minutes from the Farmhouse Inn.
Silver Lake
There are two ways of enjoying Silver Lake. You can wade in from the grassy beach in front of the Barnard General Store or from Silver Lake State Park, which has basic amenities and rustic charm. The park has a moderate entrance fee. Inside you can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddle boats. Gliding along the shore of the lake in a kayak is a relaxing escape. 20 minutes from the Farmhouse Inn.
Either way, don’t forget to get a scoop of ice cream from the general store after your dip in the lake. Stepping across the threshold of the general store is like walking back in time.
20 State Park Beach Rd, Barnard, VT 05031
Covered Bridges
Most of the covered bridges on the Covered Bridge Tour also feature swimming holes. The pools below Martins Mill Covered Bridge and the rope swing by the Taftsville Covered Bridge are especially nice.
Ottauquechee River Swimming Spots in Woodstock
You can swim in the Ottauquechee right in downtown Woodstock and at 506 on the River Inn. One entry point in the village of Woodstock is from the bridge at the end of Elm Street; there is an entry point on the right side. The water is not particularly deep here, but it is perfect for a refreshing plunge.
You can also access the river between the Woodstock Recreation Center and the Little Theater. The water here is also about waist deep, but the river is open and wide here and is perfect for wading.
54 River St, Woodstock, VT 05091S
White River Swimming Spots in Bethel
About 30 minutes away from Woodstock, the Third Branch of the White River offers some really lovely swimming spots. With its deep pools and rocks to jump from, Little Parkers is a local favorite. To get there drive down Peavine Boulevard (a tongue-in-cheek name for the road). Shortly after the pavement ends, just before a small hill, you’ll see a pull out area on the left. You’ll know it is the right spot because of the well-worn path down to a small rocky outcropping.
This GPS address will get you to just about the right spot: 43°48’46.5”N 72°38’54.7”W