|
See a SLIDESHOW of
swimming hole photos in this state.
|
|
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
BRISTOL DAM
(BRIS)
|
|
TOWNS |
DAMARISCOTTA, BRUNSWICK, BATH, WISCASSET |
LAT,
LON |
Lat=43.96047, Lon=-69.509342 Source:
MapPoint Accuracy: Exact
Link to Google Map |
STATE |
ME |
WATER |
Pemaquid River |
TYPE |
River |
DESCRIPTION |
Unique swimming area in a dammed section
of the Pemaquid River offers real small town charm. |
AREAS |
None |
SANCTION |
Unofficial |
FEE |
None |
FACILITIES |
None |
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming |
PHONE |
Unknown |
CAMPING |
None |
BATHING
SUITS |
Customary |
DIRECTIONS |
From the
intersection of RT 129 and RT 1 in Damariscotta, take a right onto RT
129/130, Bristol Rd. In approximately 2.75 miles, bear left to remain
on RT 130. You will pass a canoe shop than the fire station.
At approximately 5.6 miles from Damariscotta, you will see the
Bristol Dam swimming area.
|
CONFIDENCE |
Pretty Confident |
VERIFIED |
No |
DATE
UPDATED |
04/06/2006 |
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
CARRABASSETT AREA
[5 PLACES]
(CARA)
|
|
TOWNS |
RANGELEY, STRATTON, BIGELOW,
CARRABASSETT, NEW PORTLAND |
LAT,
LON |
lat=45.0916,
lon=-70.2653 (Source: DeLorme) (Accuracy: general area)
Link to Google Map |
STATE |
ME |
WATER |
South Branch Carrabassett River |
TYPE |
River |
DESCRIPTION |
Between Bigelow
and Carrabassett, along RT 16/27, runs the South Branch Carrabassett
River and the Carrabassett River Trail for hiking/biking. There are
apparently some swimming holes in the river along here. No better
information.
There are many other swimming holes along this river between Stratton
and New Portland. See the web site:
RANGELEY LAKES for details on other locations here.
|
AREAS |
None |
SANCTION |
Unofficial |
FEE |
None |
FACILITIES |
Unknown |
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming |
PHONE |
Unknown |
CAMPING |
Unknown |
BATHING
SUITS |
Unknown |
DIRECTIONS |
From Farmington,
go north on RT 27 to New Portland. The swimming places are along RT 27
between here and Stratton. See the web site:
RANGELEY LAKES for details on other locations here.
|
CONFIDENCE |
Pretty Confident |
VERIFIED |
No |
DATE
UPDATED |
3/20/2003 |
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
COLD RIVER AREA
[2 PLACES]
(COLA)
|
|
TOWNS |
BETHEL, GILEAD |
STATE |
ME/NH |
WATER |
Varies-see below |
TYPE |
River |
DESCRIPTION |
Spectacular
swimming holes near the Cold River campground in the White Mountain N.F. on the border between ME and NH, but really only accessible from the
ME side. See DIRECTIONS below for details.
|
AREAS |
White Mountain N. F. |
SANCTION |
Unofficial |
FEE |
None |
FACILITIES |
None |
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming, Jumping |
PHONE |
Unknown |
CAMPING |
Two developed campgrounds along RT 113. |
BATHING
SUITS |
Some optional- see notes below |
DIRECTIONS |
From Bethel (ME),
take RT 2 west to Gilead then RT 113 south (very scenic road) to where
it crosses over into NH. Then:
RATTLESNAKE BROOK [RATT]:
This from a visitor, "Rattlesnake pool is like a swimming pool--it has
flat rocks around it, (you don't have to jump from high up to get
in)....beautiful pool in the stream that another friend had told me
about. It was just breathtaking! The water cascaded down moss covered
rocks into this
incredibly deep, emerald pool. What a great spot for a dip on a hot,
summer day..." Also this note regarding suits: "Bathing suits are
customary when families are present, optional at other times. At
Rattlesnake there is a pool upstream of the cascade into the main pool
for the die-hard strip-n-dippers when families are below." LAT, LON
lat=44.2561, lon=-70.9758 (Source: DeLorme) (Accuracy: Exact)
PHOTO
Link to Google Map.
To get here: From where RT 113 first crosses into NH, go south about 1
mile then east (left) on Stone House Rd. then south (right) on Shell
Pond Rd. Park at the gate at the end of the road and hike on the road
about .5 mile to a grassy area used as a landing strip. Here, go north
on Stonehouse Trail a little more than .5 mile to a wooden footbridge.
From here, I will quote directions from an e mail I got in 7/2003:
"Now, if you look to the left on the footbridge, you can't help but
notice that there is a pretty waterfall in the distance, which has cut
a gorge about 20 feet deep into the rock. What you don't see until
you're right next to the falls is that the water under the falls is
deep, about seven feet deep. That's one of the holes. There is another
hole about seven feet long and three feet deep above and in back of the
falls, which is also good for swimming. To access these pools, go past
the bridge. You'll see a small side trail to your left. It will curve
around over to the falls. You may just satisfy yourself with a dip in
the small pool over the falls. But if you cross the stream and walk
towards the bridge a bit, you can go down to the big pool under the
falls, and that's the real treat. There is, in fact, a third pool to
the right of the bridge. It's deeper but less pretty and far less
secluded. It is, in fact, in clear view of the bridge. To get to it,
take a right side trail just before the bridge down to the gorge edge.
The most satisfying, secluded swim is in the previously mentioned two
pools." Very Confident. Not verified. Updated 7/7/2003.
EMERALD POOL [EMER]:
"Gorgeous" swimming hole in the Charles Brook near the Cold River AMC
campground. The pool is quite deep...about 12 feet in the middle. The rocks on
both sides provide jumps from 6" up to about 12 feet. The water can
be a touch warmer than other mountain streams because of the small
river that feeds it. Follow the AMC trail signs and then the sign
Emerald Pool. I received this note regarding suits:" Bathing suits are
customary when families are present, optional at other times. For the
die-hard strip-n-dippers, there is a smaller pool above the falls at
Emerald that, although not secluded, is traditionally the place to go
when families are below. Emerald Pool is subject to heavy summer youth
camp use in season, so it can be quite crowded and at such times the
upper pool sees a lot more use." LAT, LON lat=44.23753,
lon=-71.0286 (Source: DeLorme) (Accuracy: Exact) . To get here: Continue south on RT 113
about 1.25 miles past Stone House Rd. and park at the trailhead for the
Baldface Circle Trail. (If you get to the Cold River AMC campground,
you have gone too far.) Hike this trail to the west about .75 miles and
look for a minor gorge with a beautiful swimming hole in Charles Brook.
No better directions. Pretty Confident. Not verified. Updated
3/20/2003.
Link to Google Map
BLUEBERRY RIDGE POOLS [BLUB]:
This is another "set" of swimming holes on Bickford Brook not far
from Rattlesnake Brook and Emerald Pool. The pools are located off
the AMC Bickford Brook Trail about 3/4 mile from the trailhead at
Route 113. Take the Trail up to the junction of the Blueberry Ridge
Trail. Cross the brook then turn left on the path up to the pools
(on an unnamed trail). The trail winds around and next to several
swimmable pools along the brook.
PHOTO LAT, LON lat=44.2673,
lon=-71.0047 (Source: Google Maps) (Accuracy: Approximate). To get here, take
Route 113 in Maine about 1/4 mile beyond the Cold River Campground.
As the road turns north, on the right is a small dirt road that
leads to the trailheads. Pretty Confident. Not verified. Updated
01/09/2011.
Link to Google Map
|
CONFIDENCE |
Pretty Confident |
VERIFIED |
No |
DATE
UPDATED |
01/04/2011 |
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
GULF HAGAS AREA
[3 PLACES]
(GULF)
|
|
TOWNS |
BANGOR, BROWNVILLE JUNCTION |
STATE |
ME |
WATER |
Gulf Hagas Brook |
TYPE |
Falls |
DESCRIPTION |
Gulf Hagas is
located on the West Branch of the Pleasant River at Gulf Hagas Brook
and is listed on the National Registry of Landmarks.
Appropriately nicknamed The Grand Canyon of Maine, this magnificent
gorge is nearly 4 miles long, displaying vertical slate walls 300' to
400' deep. The river drops some 400'in this distance, creating numerous
waterfalls, chutes, and pools. The falls are particularly spectacular
during the spring runoff. This is also a "must trip" in the fall during
the peak of the foliage season. The summer offers tempting swimming
holes, about 8-9 holes in all, some under the waterfalls. This is a
spectacular gorge and is a highly recommend hiking trip. The National
Park Service has recently purchased the gorge and adjacent lands.
|
AREAS |
Gulf Hagas Gorge |
SANCTION |
Unofficial |
FEE |
Yes, see directions |
FACILITIES |
Unknown |
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming, Sliding |
PHONE |
Unknown |
CAMPING |
There are many primitive, secluded camp
sites in the KI/Jo-Mary forest. |
BATHING
SUITS |
Optional |
DIRECTIONS |
Gulf Hagas is
located in a multiple use forest managed by Katahdin Ironworks Jo-Mary
Inc. which appears to be a logging and land management firm. From
Bangor, take I-95 north to Exit 53. Take RT 16 north about 25 miles to
Milo, then continue north on RT 11 about 13 miles then west on Katahdin
Iron Works Rd. for about 7 miles to the well-marked trailhead/parking
area. There is a gate at the Katahdin Iron Works site, which
is a restored blast furnace and kiln of a once thriving iron mill.
There is a $16.00 (non-resident) fee charged at the gate to enter the
site.
From the parking lot you hike northeast about .5 miles to the
Hermitage. (You will cross the Pleasant River. There is no bridge here
so be prepared to cross about 100 feet of knee-deep water. This
crossing is not recommended during spring run off. There is a bridge
down river.) Once you cross the river proceed west about 1 mile on the
Appalachian Trail (blazed white) to the Gulf Hagas Brook. Then:
SCREW AUGER FALLS [SCRW]: A multi-level falls with several large
pools for swimming. Often lots of people here. It is just downstream of
where the trail meets Gulf Hagas Brook. PHOTO 1 (There is another Screw
Auger Falls in Maine, see "SCREW AUGER FALLS"). LAT, LON
lat=45.4844, lon=-69.3047 (Source: DeLorme) (Accuracy: Exact)
Link to Google Map
BUTTERMILK FALLS [BUTT]:
A high falls with a huge, deep pool. To get here: Hike about 1.75 miles
further on the trail along Gulf Hagas Brook. LAT, LON
lat=45.4889, lon=-69.3258 (Source: DeLorme) (Accuracy: Exact)
Link to Google Map
STAIR FALLS [STAI]:
Another falls with a huge pool. Difficult to get down to the water. To
get here: Hike about 2 miles further on the trail along Gulf Hagas
Brook. LAT, LON lat=45.4947, lon=-69.3386 (Source: DeLorme)
(Accuracy: Exact)
Link to Google Map
|
CONFIDENCE |
Very Confident |
VERIFIED |
Yes |
DATE
UPDATED |
02/06/2005 |
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
HOUSTON BROOK FALLS
(HOUS)
|
|
TOWNS |
WATERVILLE, SKOWHEGAN, BINGHAM |
STATE |
ME |
WATER |
Houston Brook |
TYPE |
Falls |
DESCRIPTION |
Swimming holes in pools of Houston Brook
Falls where Houston Brook empties into Wyman Lake on the Kennebec
River. |
AREAS |
None |
SANCTION |
Unofficial |
FEE |
None |
FACILITIES |
Unknown |
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming |
PHONE |
Unknown |
CAMPING |
Unknown |
BATHING
SUITS |
Unknown |
DIRECTIONS |
From Farmington,
go north on RT 4 to Fairbanks then north on RT 27 thru New Vineyard
then east (right) on RT 234 to N. Anson. In N. Anson, go northeast on
RT 201A to Salon then north on RT 201 to Bingham. Just before you enter
Bingham (just south of Bingham), turn west (left) on RT 16 and cross
the bridge over the Kennebec River. Right after you cross this bridge,
turn north (right) on a road (unknown name). Continue on this road
about 4-5 miles to near where this road crosses Houston Brook. The
falls and swimming hole are near here.
|
CONFIDENCE |
Pretty Confident |
VERIFIED |
No |
DATE
UPDATED |
3/20/2003 |
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
LAKEWOOD
(LAKE)
|
|
TOWNS |
BAR HARBOR |
LAT,
LON |
lat=44.41225, lon=-68.26929 Source: Measured Accuracy:
Exact
Link to Google Map |
STATE |
ME |
WATER |
Lake Wood |
TYPE |
Cove |
DESCRIPTION |
A small cove of lake in a remote area of
Acadia National Park. Very small and quiet place. |
AREAS |
Acadia National Park |
SANCTION |
Unofficial |
FEE |
Although this place is technically part
of Acadia National Park, no fee is required to access this site. |
FACILITIES |
Toilets, Trash Cans |
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming |
PHONE |
None |
CAMPING |
Several camping places in Acadia
National Park, make reservations well
ahead. |
BATHING
SUITS |
Required |
DIRECTIONS |
From Bar Harbor,
go northwest on RT 3 past the Visitors Center. Before
you get to Hulls Cove, turn west (left) on Crooked Rd. In 0.7 miles,
turn left onto Lakewood Pond Rd. - a park sign is on this road but not
really visible from Crooked Rd. Follow Lakewood Pond road for 0.3 miles
to the well established parking area. From the far parking area there's
a path that leads right to the water, its not far at all.
Traditionally, there was a nude beach down a trail to the left when
facing the water. This is no longer the case. Bathing suites are
required in all areas.
|
CONFIDENCE |
Very Confident |
VERIFIED |
Yes |
DATE
UPDATED |
02/06/2005 |
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
THE LEDGES
(LEDG)
|
|
TOWNS |
MILLINOCKET, BANGOR |
LAT,
LON |
lat=45.93766, lon=-69.04071 (Source:
MapPoint) (Accuracy: General Area)
Link to Google Map |
STATE |
ME |
WATER |
Unknown |
TYPE |
Falls |
DESCRIPTION |
There are several
natural waterslides here as the water flows across a large granite area
approximately 75 feet across. The Ledges is about 12 miles west of the
Togue Pond Gate House at the southern entrance of Baxter State
Park. A wise message from a recent visitor states :" Besides
the fee to get into Baxter State Park, plus the out of state additional
fee, you have to be careful about when you go. The rangers
keep close tabs on how many visitors have entered and once
they decide the parking lots are full, they shut the gate and no one
gets in. The campgrounds fill up early,
reservations are best made in February or March. The other
thing is that the twelve miles from the Gate House to the swimming area
are on hard pack gravel and the speed limit is 15 mph, or so.
The time from Millinocket to the Ledges is probably 1 1/2 hours one
isn't going to visit the Ledges on a side trip - it's a full day trip
and you need to plan ahead. Don't even think about going
there on Labor Day."
|
AREAS |
Baxter State Park |
SANCTION |
Unofficial |
FEE |
There is a fee charged to enter the park. |
FACILITIES |
There are toilets and picnic tables
throughout the park. |
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming, Sliding |
PHONE |
Unknown |
CAMPING |
Baxter State Park |
BATHING
SUITS |
Unknown |
DIRECTIONS |
From the Togue Pond Gatehouse at the
southern entrance of Baxter State Park proceed 12 miles west on the
park road to reach the Ledge Falls Picnic Area Parking lot on the left. |
CONFIDENCE |
Pretty Confident |
VERIFIED |
No |
DATE
UPDATED |
01/15/2005 |
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
LEIGH'S MILL POND
(LEIG)
|
|
TOWNS |
SOUTH BERWICK, NORTH BERWICK,
ROLLINGSFORD (NH) |
LAT,
LON |
lat=43.22000, lon=-70.81031 Source:
Measured Accuracy: Exact
Link to Google Map |
STATE |
ME |
WATER |
Great Works River |
TYPE |
Pond |
DESCRIPTION |
This swimming hole is located on private property. Please
remember that you are a guest here and to treat this land like you
would treat your own property. Do not litter. Do not bring alcohol to
this or any other swimming hole. Do not erect rope swings or alter the
landscape in any way. There are no bathroom facilities here, so please
plan ahead and act accordingly. Leave this place cleaner than you found
it when you arrived.
Leigh's Mill Pond
is a wonderful swimming hole that is located on private property. It's
part of the Great Works River, just before it flows into the Salmon
Falls River. This is a medium sized pond with a very small access area
it can accommodate only a small number of visitors. The island in the
center of the pond has a very fragile shoreline and at certain times of
the year may have bank swallows that nest in the grassy and muddy
banks. The over use of the rope swing that you may see on the tree that
is located on the island has caused much damage to the tree and to the
island itself. As a result, the bank swallow nests were trampled. As
you can see in the photo, the island is very far from the
shore (several hundred yards). We strongly advise that you enjoy the
view of the island and not swim out to it.
|
AREAS |
Vaughan Woods State Park |
SANCTION |
Unofficial. |
FEE |
None |
FACILITIES |
None |
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming |
PHONE |
None |
CAMPING |
NONE....this is
private property. |
BATHING
SUITS |
Required |
DIRECTIONS |
From South Berwick, take RT 236 south about 1 mile then turn
west (right) on Vine St. Go about 2 miles on Vine until you see the
pond on your left. There is no parking in the immediate area. This
area is clearly posted No Parking along the entire roadway and
swimmers will be ticketed should they park in the area.
The
local police strictly enforce these parking regulations. |
CONFIDENCE |
Very Confident |
VERIFIED |
No |
DATE
UPDATED |
08/15/2004 |
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
LONG DAM
(LONG)
|
|
TOWNS |
FARMINGTON, KINGFIELD, NEW
PORTLAND |
STATE |
ME |
WATER |
Unknown |
TYPE |
River |
DESCRIPTION |
Swimming place in bend in river, gravel
beach, informal
camping also. |
AREAS |
None |
SANCTION |
Unofficial |
FEE |
No |
FACILITIES |
None |
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming |
PHONE |
None |
CAMPING |
Informal camping at site. Appalachian
Trail
nearby. |
BATHING
SUITS |
Unknown |
DIRECTIONS |
From Farmington,
go north on RT 4 to Fairbanks then north on RT 27 to New Portland then
east (right) on RT 146 to North New Portland. In North New Portland, go
north (right) on Long Dam Rd. about 20 miles (cross Appalachian Trail)
to a bend in river with a gravel beach and swimming place, may be some
campers there also.
|
CONFIDENCE |
Pretty Confident |
VERIFIED |
Yes |
DATE
UPDATED |
3/20/2003 |
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
MOXIE FALLS
(MOXI)
|
|
TOWNS |
WATERVILLE, SKOWHEGAN, WEST
FORKS |
LAT,
LON |
lat=44.7494, lon=-70.5419 (Source:
DeLorme) (Accuracy: Exact)
Link to Google Map |
STATE |
ME |
WATER |
Moxie Stream |
TYPE |
Falls |
DESCRIPTION |
Swimming hole in
pool at the bottom of
one of the highest falls in Maine. The trail to the bottom is very
steep, considered strenuous.
CAUTION
- Swimming or even walking on the riverbank above the falls is
EXTREMELY DANGEROUS. An article in the Kennebec Journal
and Morning Sentinel recounts what happened to a couple that were
visiting the falls : "The (two visitors to the falls) were not
swimming above the falls. She had simply waded into the pool above the
dam to get her feet wet. She was very aware that the waterfalls were
there," the warden said. "She had been there before. She lost her
footing, was swept away and called for help. He went out after her, and
they both fell over."
|
AREAS |
None |
SANCTION |
Unofficial |
FEE |
Unknown |
FACILITIES |
Unknown |
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming |
PHONE |
Unknown |
CAMPING |
Unknown. |
BATHING
SUITS |
Unknown |
DIRECTIONS |
From Waterville,
go northwest on RT 201 through Skowhegan for a total
of about 60 miles (past the turn off to "HOUSTON BROOK FALLS" swimming
hole in Bingham) to The Forks (just short of West Forks). In The Forks
(there are signs to Moxie Falls), take Lake Moxie Rd. road to the east
a short distance to Moxie Falls (before Lake Moxie).
|
CONFIDENCE |
Very Confident |
VERIFIED |
No |
DATE
UPDATED |
07/25/2007 |
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
REID STATE PARK AREA
[3 PLACES]
(REID)
|
|
TOWNS |
PORTLAND, WOOLWICH, GEORGETOWN |
STATE |
ME |
WATER |
Unknown |
TYPE |
River (Tidal) |
DESCRIPTION |
Reid State Park,
not far from Portland, has an ocean beach as well as several fresh
water swimming places nearby. See "DIRECTIONS" below for details.
|
AREAS |
Reid State Park nearby |
SANCTION |
Unknown |
FEE |
Unknown |
FACILITIES |
Reid S. P. has a snack bar, picnic
tables, grills, bathhouse and showers.
|
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming, Tubing |
PHONE |
Reid State Park: (207)371-2303 |
CAMPING |
Unknown. |
BATHING
SUITS |
Unknown |
DIRECTIONS |
Take I-95 north
out of Portland to RT 1. Turn south off RT 1 in Woolrich onto RT 127
and go through Georgetown. Then:
UNKNOWN HOLE [UNKN]:
After you pass through Georgetown on RT 127, just before you cross the
bridge over Robinhood Cove, there may be some sort of swimming hole on
the right side of RT 127. LAT, LON lat=43.80419, lon=-69.74825
(Source: DeLorme) (Accuracy: Approximate) Very Uncertain. Not verified. Updated
3/20/2003
Link to Google Map
REID STATE PARK [REIS]: Ocean
beaches with snack bar, picnic tables, grills, bathhouse and showers.
Park may also have a tidal river at the south end for swimming and
tubing. LAT, LON lat=43.78001, lon=-69.72729 (Source: DeLorme) (Accuracy: Approximate) . To get here: After you pass through
Georgetown on RT 127, watch for signs to Reid State Park Very Confident. Not
verified. Updated 3/20/2003.
Link to Google Map
|
|
CHARLES POND [CHAR]: Fresh-water
pond swimming hole near Reid State Park. LAT, LON lat=43.82064,
lon=-69.7238 (Source: DeLorme) (Accuracy: Approximate) . On RT 127 after you pass the turn off
for Reid State Park. Very Confident. Not verified. Updated 3/20/2003
Link to Google Map
|
CONFIDENCE |
Varies-see above |
VERIFIED |
No |
DATE
UPDATED |
3/20/2003 |
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
ROQUE BLUFFS STATE PARK
(ROQU)
|
|
TOWNS |
BANGOR, ELLSWORTH, MACHIAS |
STATE |
ME |
WATER |
Unknown |
TYPE |
Pond (Freshwater) |
DESCRIPTION |
Roque Bluffs State Park has swimming at
both a pebble
ocean beach and freshwater pond.
|
AREAS |
Roque Bluffs State Park |
SANCTION |
Official |
FEE |
Unknown |
FACILITIES |
Picnic tables, grills, bathhouse.
|
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming |
PHONE |
(207) 255-4014 |
CAMPING |
Unknown. |
BATHING
SUITS |
Unknown |
DIRECTIONS |
From Bagor, go east about 90 miles on RT
1A and RT1 to Machias. From Machias, go south on unknown road to Roque
Bluffs State Park. |
CONFIDENCE |
Pretty Confident |
VERIFIED |
No |
DATE
UPDATED |
9/30/1999 |
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
ROUTE 25 AREA
[3 PLACES]
(RT25)
|
|
TOWNS |
PORTLAND, STANDISH, EAST LIMINGTON,
PORTER |
STATE |
ME |
WATER |
Ossipee River & Saco River |
TYPE |
River |
DESCRIPTION |
RT 25 follows the Ossipee River then the
Saco River heading east from the NH/ME border toward Portland. There
are a number of swimming places along here. For details, see
"DIRECTIONS" below.
|
AREAS |
None |
SANCTION |
Unofficial |
FEE |
None |
FACILITIES |
See above |
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming |
PHONE |
Unknown |
CAMPING |
Unknown |
BATHING
SUITS |
Unknown |
DIRECTIONS |
Four swimming
places along RT 25 (from the NH/ME border to the east) are:
PORTER [PORT]:
In the town of Porter, there is a covered bridge over the Ossipee
River. There is a swimming hole near this bridge. This from a frequent
visitor," This is my all
time favorite spot to go. The bridge that is traveled by the cars
(on route 160, so it's a
tad busy) is a
great place to jump. You must look for the white line on the rails. The
falls are 23 feet. I have been off the bridge at just about every hour
of the day over 1000 times. I have never been given any trouble. Down
stream a bit is a nice swimming place for the kids.
The swimming spot
is calm and shallow for kids, but the entrance to the water is a bit
steep. Once again a fun spot." Very Confident. Not verified.
Updated 3/20/2003.
HIRAM DAM [HIRA]: This is a
wonderful, sandy beach in the Saco River at the foot of a dam. Also
called "Great Falls Dam". To get there: continue east on RT 25, in the
town of Cornish, go north (left) on the road directly opposite the
Cornish Inn. Go about 1 mile and bear right onto River Road. Go 3
miles you may see some cars parked along the road. There are also
three parking areas. One is almost directly across from a place called
Big Dave's Canoe Rentals, but only holds 3-4 vehicles.
This is the longest hike to the
beach area. The next spot up
holds a few more cars, but can be hard to get in and out of
if you don't have good clearance under your vehicle.
This spot is the closest to the
beach area i.e. least walk to the beach. The next spot up
is right next to the river. All of these parking areas have trails you
can easily follow down to the main beach area.
Bring a life jacket and you can
shoot some of the smaller rapids. Careful of the current under the
turbine area which is a swirl and can be tough to get out of. The
water pools up to the beaches and gets bath warm and the sand is
soft and warm. Jumping off of the wall on the far side near the top
of the dam is a fall of about 15ft into 12ft of water (be sure to do
it when the flow over the dam is low so the current isn't too
strong. (If you can see the
river, you've gone too far). No fees or facilities. Camping at the
site. Pretty Confident. Not verified. PHOTO
1 PHOTO 2.
Very Confident. Verified. Updated 1/28/2004.
EAST LIMINGTON [EAST]:
Swimming hole in the Saco River in East Limington, at the roadside
picnic area. There are portable toilets and picnic tables but no other
facilities. To get there, continue east on RT 25 to East Limington. The
swimming hole is right on the highway, "you can't miss
it". PHOTO
1
PHOTO 2 Confident. Verified. Updated 1/28/2004.
|
CONFIDENCE |
Varies. See Above |
VERIFIED |
Varies. See Above |
DATE
UPDATED |
02/05/2005 |
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
ROYAL RIVER
(ROYA)
|
|
TOWNS |
YARMOUTH, PORTLAND |
LAT,
LON |
Lat=43.80747, Lon=-70.18948 (Source:
MapPoint) (Accuracy: Exact)
Link to Google Map |
|
|
STATE |
ME |
WATER |
Royal River |
TYPE |
River |
DESCRIPTION |
There's a little
waterfall that you can climb down to, just beside the path in
Royal River park. You can soak there in the rapids here.
Further down stream, the river gets wider and slower, and
you'll see a rope swing on a tree beside the river. |
AREAS |
Royal River Park |
SANCTION |
Unofficial |
FEE |
None |
FACILITIES |
None |
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming, Rope Swing |
PHONE |
Unknown |
CAMPING |
Unknown. |
BATHING
SUITS |
Unknown |
DIRECTIONS |
From the
intersection of routes 1 and 115 in Yarmouth, follow RT 115 westward
for approximately 0.5 mile and turn right onto Elm Street. On the
coroner here is Andy's Handy Store. Follow Elm St for approximately 0.5
miles and cross the railroad tracks. Royal River park will be on your
right, just before the bridge. Park, and follow the path for a couple
hundred yards. You'll see a very large rock sitting on a patch of
dirt/overlook with a railing. Go over or under the railing and down the
bank and into the water.
|
CONFIDENCE |
Pretty Confident |
VERIFIED |
No |
DATE
UPDATED |
03/10/2006 |
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
RUMFORD AREA
[7 PLACES]
(RUMF)
|
|
TOWNS |
RUMFORD, MEXICO, BETHEL, ROXBURY, CANTON |
STATE |
ME |
WATER |
Varies, see below |
TYPE |
Varies, see below |
DESCRIPTION |
Many swimming holes in the vicinity of
Rumford and Mexico. See "DIRECTIONS" below for details.
|
AREAS |
Varies, see below |
SANCTION |
Unofficial |
FEE |
None |
FACILITIES |
None |
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming |
PHONE |
None |
CAMPING |
Rangeley Lake
State Park is nearby, has camping and lake swimming. Also Mount Blue
State Park is nearby. White Mountain. National Forest is west of here
in NH with camping at several locations.
|
BATHING
SUITS |
Some optional, see below. |
DIRECTIONS |
All directions
are from Rumford:
SWIFT RIVER FALLS [SWIF]:
Also known as Three Pools, this large swimming hole is at base of small
falls in the Swift River. Can be crowded.
The former parking area has been closed off by the landowner who
became weary of picking up trash. He lives in the house adjacent to
the parking area, and keeps a close eye on the property. To access
the falls, park along the road and walk to the river side near the
house. follow the path along the river to the ledge. LAT, LON lat=44.6422,
lon=-70.5881 (Source: Topozone ) (Accuracy: Exact) To get there: From Rumford, go
northwest on RT 17 for about 8 miles (past Frye, before Roxbury.) Very
Confident. Not verified. Updated 3/16/2003
Link to Google Map.
COOS CANYON [COOS]:
A very deep place in the Swift River between cliffs on both sides. It
is very difficult to get to the water as there are many smooth and
slippery rocks. This IS NOT a place for small children. BE VERY CAREFUL
IF YOU JUMP HERE. DO NOT DIVE. There is
access from the picnic/rest area, which also has ample parking. There
is also a nearby campground and a store just across the street where
you can get gold-panning equipment (yes, there is gold in the area, but
not much) and food (very good hot dogs). LAT, LON
lat=44.7211, lon=-70.6286 (Source: Topozone ) (Accuracy: Exact) . To get there: From Rumford, go
northwest on RT 17 past Frye, past Roxbury and past "SWIFT RIVER FALLS"
(above). Near Byron, on RT 17, park at the Coos Canyon Rest Area on the
left and walk to the river. Or, south of the rest area, turn east
(right) off RT 17 onto Byron Village Rd. which runs along the river and
park along here. Very Confident. Not verified. Updated 3/16/2003
Link to Google Map
ELLIS FALLS [ELLI]:
Locally popular swimming place in large pool at bottom of falls in the
Ellis River. LAT, LON lat=44.644, lon=-70.706
(Source: Topozone ) (Accuracy: Approximate) To get there: From Rumford, go northwest
on RT 17 to Frye then go west on RT 120. A couple of miles before you
get to Andover, RT 120 crosses the Ellis River. The falls and swimming
hole are here. Pretty Confident. Not verified.
Link to Google Map
ANASAGUNTICOOK [ANAS]:
Spring fed lake, 3 miles long, 1 mile wide, clean, cool, clear water.
Also called "Canton Lake". Southern shore, called "The Beach" is great
swimming. To get there: From Rumford, go southeast on RT 108 to Canton.
Lake Anasagunticook is on the southern border of Canton. The Beach is
on the south shore of the lake. Pretty Confident. Not verified. Be advised that
there is a local ordinance restricting use of the beach to
residents.
FRENCHMANS HOLE [FREN]: PLEASE
TREAT THIS AREA GENTLY
This area is now
under the Maine Public Reserve Land program, which sets aside
parcels of land to be preserved from development. As the name
suggests, the land is available for use, but we still ask that you
use proper etiquette. Please make an effort to leave no trace of your visit and to
remove the traces left by others. YOU
CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE at this swimming hole and at any
others that you may visit. Be brave.
Be a leader. Set the example.
Fairly secluded
spot in the Sunday River where the river coming off the mountain has
made an astonishing basin, an outstanding swimming spot. Waterfall with
very deep pool, crystal clear water. Upper and lower holes. On skinny
dipping: use discretion in upper hole, suits optional in lower pool.
LAT, LON lat=44.5119, lon=-70.9194 Source: Measured
Accuracy: Exact. To get there: From Rumford, go
southeast on RT 2 about 16 miles through Newry to North Bethel. In
North Bethel, turn right (northwest) on Sunday River Rd.. Set your
odometer and proceed up Sunday River Rd., keeping to the right at any
forks. (At about 5.5 miles there is a nice swimming place by the road,
called "The S".) To continue to Frenchman's, pass the (historic,
picturesque) covered bridge until you come to twin logging bridges.
Cross the bridges and take the first right turn. Proceed until you see
parking area on your right. To access the lower hole, climb down the
ledge and walk downstream. PHOTO1 Very Confident. Verified.
Updated 3/13/2004.
Link to Google Map
SCREW AUGER FALLS [SCRE]:
Not really a swimming area, more of a sit in the pool and splash area.
(There is another Screw Auger Falls in Maine, see "GULF HAGAS AREA")
Falls are in the Grafton Notch State Park. All facilities at the State
Park but apparently no camping. A fee is requested (unattended.)
Be very careful near the edge of the gorge.
It is especially not
advisable to attempt to jump over the gorge, regardless of what
superpowers you think you have. A
happy reader reports : We've
been there. This is a very beautiful area, and lots of fun
for kids. No real swimming but you can walk/climb
along/through the river, through a "cave" where river flows under
overhanging boulders and along ledges, etc. There
is also a paved walkway upstream from the falls this is considered
handicapped accessible hiking alongside the more level section of the
river. LAT, LON lat=44.5711,
lon=-70.9064 (Source: Topozone) (Accuracy: Exact). To get there: From Rumford, go
southeast on RT 2 about 16 miles to Newry. In Newry, turn northwest
(right) on RT 26. Screw Auger Falls are in Grafton Notch State Park on RT 26.
Very Confident. Not verified. Updated 3/16/2003.
Link to Google Map.
STEP FALLS [STEP]: Just south of
Grafton Notch State Park is Step Falls Preserve. None of the pools here
are very deep, however, there are plenty of natural
waterslides, wide pools for swimming. It is a bit of a hike to get to
the better pools it not a good place to bring small children. LAT, LON
lat=44.57555, lon=-70.86567 Source: Map Point
Accuracy: Exact To get there: From Rumford, go southeast on
RT 2 about 16 miles to Newry. In Newry, head north/northwest on RT 26
for approximately 7.5 miles. Step Falls will be on the right just
before Grafton Notch State Park. Watch carefully for the sign-
it's not very big. Park under the large trees. Additional parking is
available in the adjacent field if necessary. It's pretty
easy to tell where to park. Very Confident. Not Verified. Updated
02/06/2005 Link
to Google Map
|
CONFIDENCE |
Varies-See above |
VERIFIED |
No |
DATE
UPDATED |
02/06/2005 |
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
SALMON FALLS
(SALM)
|
|
TOWNS |
PORTLAND, OLD ORCHARD BEACH, SACO |
LAT,
LON |
Lat=43.5963, Lon=-70.5545 (Source: Measured) (Accuracy: Exact)
Link to Google Map |
STATE |
ME |
WATER |
Saco River |
TYPE |
River |
DESCRIPTION |
Swimming in the
Saco river
|
AREAS |
None |
SANCTION |
Unofficial |
FEE |
None |
FACILITIES |
None |
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming |
PHONE |
Unknown |
CAMPING |
None at site |
BATHING
SUITS |
Unknown |
DIRECTIONS |
From the center
of Saco, follow RT 112 northwest out of town. At
approximately 6.5 miles, turn left onto RT 117. Follow RT 117 until it merges
with RT 202 and RT4. Turn left following RT 117/4 taking the bridge
over the Saco River. After crossing the bridge, turn left
immediately onto Old Alfred Rd. The obvious parking area will be on
your left. Follow the short path down to the river.
|
CONFIDENCE |
Confident |
VERIFIED |
Yes |
DATE
UPDATED |
01/05/2011 |
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
SANDY RIVER
(SAND)
|
|
TOWNS |
FARMINGTON |
LAT,
LON |
lat=44.66567, lon=-70.15400 (Source:
DeLorme) (Accuracy: Approximate)
Link to Google Map |
STATE |
ME |
WATER |
Sandy River |
TYPE |
River |
DESCRIPTION |
Located near the
University of Maine athletic fields in Farmington on Front Street are
several sandy swimming beaches, along with some picnic areas.
|
AREAS |
None |
SANCTION |
Unofficial |
FEE |
None |
FACILITIES |
Picnic areas |
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming |
PHONE |
Unknown |
CAMPING |
None at site |
BATHING
SUITS |
Unknown |
DIRECTIONS |
In Farmington,
located near the University of Maine athletic fields, on Front Street
are several sandy swimming beaches, along with some picnic areas.
|
CONFIDENCE |
Pretty Confident |
VERIFIED |
No |
DATE
UPDATED |
3/20/2003 |
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
SMALLS FALLS
(SMAL)
|
|
TOWNS |
RANGELEY, FARMINGTON, MADRID |
LAT,
LON |
lat=44.8583, lon=-70.5164 (Source:
DeLorme) (Accuracy: Exact)
Link to Google Map |
STATE |
ME |
WATER |
Sandy River |
TYPE |
Falls |
DESCRIPTION |
Small Falls, near Rangeley, is both a
very photogenic falls with several cascades and a fun swimming place in
the pools below. A nice swimming area, with many levels of pools. Good
place for jumping too. The lowest pool is accessible through the lower
picnic area. Parking, picnic areas and drinking water are provided.
|
AREAS |
None |
SANCTION |
Unofficial |
FEE |
None |
FACILITIES |
Parking, picnic areas and drinking water
are provided. |
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming |
PHONE |
None |
CAMPING |
Rangeley Lake State Park is nearby, has
camping and lake
swimming. Also Mount Blue S. P. is nearby. |
BATHING
SUITS |
Unknown |
DIRECTIONS |
From Rangeley, go southeast on RT 4
about 10 miles, toward Madrid. It is well marked. |
CONFIDENCE |
Very Confident |
VERIFIED |
No |
DATE
UPDATED |
02/06/2005 |
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
WESTON'S BEACH
(WEST)
|
|
TOWNS |
FRYEBURG, CONWAY (NH) |
STATE |
ME |
WATER |
Saco River |
TYPE |
River |
DESCRIPTION |
Wide, sandy spot at a bend in the Saco river -
very popular among locals. Dogs not permitted 10am-5pm, May-Sept.
Water may be shallow, but there still may be a relatively strong
current here, so be careful. |
AREAS |
None |
SANCTION |
Official |
FEE |
None |
FACILITIES |
None. There is, however, a large parking lot. |
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming |
PHONE |
None |
CAMPING |
None at site |
BATHING
SUITS |
Required |
DIRECTIONS |
From Main St. (Rt. 302)
in Fryeburg, take River St. (Rt. 113-North) 0.5 miles. Just after
crossing the bridge over the river, you will see a parking is on the
right with large rocks on the border with the road. The entrance is
at far end of parking lot. Depending on the time of year/water
level, you may need to wade through water or take short, unmarked
woods trail (entry is on left just before you reach water) to reach
sandy beach.
|
CONFIDENCE |
Pretty Confident |
VERIFIED |
No |
DATE
UPDATED |
07/06/2010 |
This swimming hole listing is by
www.swimmingholes.org
WOOLEN MILL HOLE
(WOOL)
|
|
TOWNS |
FARMINGTON, PHILLIPS, SALEM |
LAT,
LON |
lat=44.83831, lon=-70.34533 (Source:
DeLorme) (Accuracy: Approximate)
Link to Google Map |
STATE |
ME |
WATER |
Sandy River |
TYPE |
River |
DESCRIPTION |
A rocky shoreline on the Sandy River
offers lots of nice spots from which to jump into the water. |
AREAS |
None |
SANCTION |
Unofficial |
FEE |
None |
FACILITIES |
Unknown |
ACTIVITIES |
Swimming, Jumping |
PHONE |
Unknown |
CAMPING |
None at site |
BATHING
SUITS |
Unknown |
DIRECTIONS |
From Farmington,
go north on RT 4 to Strong then west on RT 4 to Phillips. In Phillips,
turn north (right) on RT 142. The swimming hole is located off RT 142
between Phillips and Salem. Going towards Salem, cross the bridge and
park on the right hand side of the road. There is a footpath leading
down to the water. A rocky shoreline offers lots of nice spots from
which to jump into the water.
|
CONFIDENCE |
Pretty Confident |
VERIFIED |
No |
DATE
UPDATED |
3/20/2003 |
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|