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MAINE SWIMMING HOLES
(38 PLACES)

UPDATED 1/2011
 

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ON STATE MAP BELOW: BLUE = swimming hole, GREEN = road trip dip (click here for info) , RED = hot spring. Hold cursor over map tags for info (click here if you don't see this info), then click to go to detailed listing. The map location is very approximate. Use our directions with a highway map.

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LONG DAM RUMFORD AREA WESTONS BEACH Route 25 Area >> RT25 SMALLS FALLS LAKE WOOD MOXIE FALLS HOUSTON BROOK FALLS REID S. P. AREA ROQUE BLUFFS S. P. GULF HAGAS AREA CARRABASSETT AREA LEIGHS MILL POND COLD RIVER AREA SANDY RIVER WOOLEN MILL HOLE The Ledges Salmon Falls

 
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Swimmingholes.info


BRISTOL DAM
(BRIS)
PHOTO1   PHOTO2   PHOTO3 TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
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


Swimmingholes.info


CARRABASSETT AREA
[5 PLACES]
(CARA)
NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
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


Swimmingholes.info


COLD RIVER AREA
[2 PLACES]
(COLA)
NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
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

Swimmingholes.info


GULF HAGAS AREA
[3 PLACES]
(GULF)
PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
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 [SCRE]: 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


Swimmingholes.info


HOUSTON BROOK FALLS
(HOUS)
NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
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


Swimmingholes.info


LAKE WOOD
(LAKE)
PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
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
 


Swimmingholes.info


THE LEDGES
(LEDG)
PHOTO1   PHOTO2 TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
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


Swimmingholes.info


LEIGH'S MILL POND
(LEIG)
PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
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


Swimmingholes.info


LONG DAM
(LONG)
NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
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


Swimmingholes.info


MOXIE FALLS
(MOXI)
PHOTO1 TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
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


Swimmingholes.info


REID STATE PARK AREA
[3 PLACES]
(REID)
NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
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

 walden's pondA Family-Friendly
Walden's Pond

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


Swimmingholes.info


ROQUE BLUFFS STATE PARK
(ROQU)
NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE		 walden's pondA Family-Friendly
Walden's Pond
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


Swimmingholes.info


ROUTE 25 AREA
[4 PLACES]
(RT25)
PHOTOS BELOW TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE		 Road Trip Dip
A Road Trip Dip
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.

STEEP FALLS [STEE]: The swimming place at Steep Falls area in the Saco River has been closed by the landowner due to excessive abuse of the property.  Follow this link to read about how this happened. Confident. Verified Updated 08/19/2010

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
 


Swimmingholes.info


ROYAL RIVER
(ROYA)
NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
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


Swimmingholes.info


RUMFORD AREA
[7 PLACES]
(RUMF)
SEE BELOW TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
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
 

Swimmingholes.info


SALMON FALLS
(SALM)
NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
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


Swimmingholes.info


SANDY RIVER
(SAND)
NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
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


Swimmingholes.info


SMALLS FALLS
(SMAL)
LINK TO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
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
 

Swimmingholes.info


WESTON'S BEACH
(WEST)
NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
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




Swimmingholes.info


WOOLEN MILL HOLE
(WOOL)
NO PHOTO TO STATE MAP
TO HOMEPAGE
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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