Swim out to Lone Rock, a small island just offshore, for a fun 10-foot jump and unique view of Lake Champlain. A favorite for UVM students and families alike, it’s a welcoming space for all. Wrap up your day with a sunset swim—an ideal way to close out an afternoon spent exploring Church Street or relaxing at the hotel.

It’s a popular spot, often drawing crowds on hot summer days, but for good reason. The water is clean, the sun hits just right, and it’s one of the rare places in New England where you can stand behind a waterfall. Bring a picnic, stay for a while, and if you’re looking for a quieter stretch, head upstream or downstream for smaller pools and more privacy. 

Visit in spring and you might even catch whitewater kayakers launching over the falls. This stretch of the New Haven River is a favorite for paddlers, too. Whether you’re jumping, swimming, or just lounging in the sun, Bartlett Falls is a place you’ll want to come back to.

The main pool stretches about 30 feet wide, with dark, clear water spilling down from Smugglers’ Notch into a natural stone amphitheater. Moss-covered walls around you, creating a tucked-away space that feels miles from anywhere. Above the falls, the rock is beautifully sculpted but swimming up there isn’t safe. The trail down to the base drops about 60 vertical feet and can be slippery, so bring a stick or take your time. 

While there aren’t many rocks for lounging and no ledges for jumping, the views and setting more than make up for it. The canyon faces southwest, making it a great afternoon stop especially after a morning of exploring or a long, slow breakfast. 

The upper falls drop into a compact, punchbowl-shaped pool with swirling emerald-green water. Just below, the second plunge lands in a larger, almost perfectly round basin—about 25 feet across—great for a refreshing swim. The final cascade spills into a calmer stretch of river, where flat rocks and sandy banks create a laid-back zone ideal for younger kids and sunbathers alike. 

After soaking it all in, continue south on I-89 to Waterbury and treat yourself to a stop at the Ben & Jerry’s Factory—an iconic Vermont experience that’s just as sweet as the swim.

The gorge is worth a visit for its natural beauty and layered history. Once home to a 19th-century grist mill and later a hydroelectric plant, today it sits in a wild, mostly untouched state. Vantage points along Dugway Road offer views of the falls and gorge, but parking is limited to marked areas. 

After exploring, head into Richmond for some local flavor. Grab tacos and a creative creemee at The Big Spruce, enjoy a beer and a bite at Stone Corral Brewery, or stock up on picnic fare at Richmond Market & Beverage.

Make a full day of it by grabbing lunch at the Warren Store, known for its stacked sandwiches, fresh-baked treats, and shelves filled with local Vermont art and goods. On your way back north, stop in Waitsfield for a quick dip at the covered bridge swimming hole, then wander through town to explore local shops and galleries.

Wrap up the day at American Flatbread, a beloved spot set on a working farm. With wood-fired, farm-to-table pizza, fresh produce straight from the garden, and yard games like bocce and spikeball, it’s the perfect way to end a summer day. Whether you’re swimming, exploring, or just soaking it all in, this is Vermont at its best.

A GENTLE REMINDER

Before you head out, here are a few simple reminders to help keep your visit safe, respectful, and enjoyable for everyone: 

Safety First. Wet rocks can be slippery and fast-moving water is powerful. Keep your distance from high or slick edges and always go with care. 

Bring the Basics. Water, snacks, sturdy shoes, a towel, and sunscreen. Water shoes can be especially helpful on slippery rocks. 

Scout Before You Swim. Always check water depth, current, and footing before jumping in even if others are already swimming. 

Leave It Better Than You Found It. Pack out all trash (even if it’s not yours), respect wildlife, and help keep these places clean and beautiful for the next visitors. 

Be Kind to the Land. Stick to marked trails, avoid building rock stacks, and tread lightly—these places are special because they feel wild. 

Cliff Jump with Caution. It’s fun, but not always safe. Only jump where it’s clearly deep, legal, and you’re confident in your surroundings. 

Respect Private Property. If a spot is posted, turn around. Many swimming holes exist because of generous landowners—let’s keep it that way.