As its nickname suggests, Whirley Baths have a unique feature: Jacuzzi-jet-like water swirls in various rocky outcroppings just above and at the foot of a pretty little waterfall. Depending on what part of the day and season you visit, you might have the water all to yourself. The 13 best swimming holes in Massachusetts are sure to have you coming back again and again. Located along the North River, this park also offers over two miles of hiking trails and some very scenic views. A 12-foot water slide, flat sunny slabs and a 7-foot deep . Massachusetts native. Perfect for kayaking (there is a small boat launch) or just splashing around in the water. Are there any pristine lakes in Massachusetts? It would be a treat to board an inner tube and spend some time floating across the countryside. This property borders Murphy Park and Nims Tree Farm and is situated to the west of Greenfields downtown. Get more stories delivered right to your email. If you feel like stretching your legs or getting out of the sun, the pond is ringed with many trails that are dog-friendly. What could be better than cooling off beneath the sparkling spray of a local waterfall? The shore is not usually crowded (the image above is from a boating event on the lake), and the waters are quite warm and clean. Don't be scared off by the picture above it's from a boating event when the crowds turned up in droves. This isnt just a great swimming hole; its also one of the best hikes to swimming holes in Massachusetts. 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This list has plenty of little-known beaches in Massachusetts just waiting to be explored. Massachusetts native. Bellevue Falls | Adams, Massachusetts This gorgeous swimming spot boasts small falls for jumping and splashing as well as several pools perfect for dipping or just cooling your feet. Of course, Bash Bish Falls is the most popular waterfall in Massachusetts, and the two-mile trail will lead you straight to the 200-foot cascade. Half Moon Beach in Gloucester, on the other hand, boasts some of the clearest water in Massachusetts. You won't find a better Massachusetts swimming hole. There are tons of excellent swimming spots peppered all over New England, so its pretty tough to narrow it down to just a few bests. You can also just lounge in the soft sand and soak up the sun, if youre not up for time in the water. For now, here are our picks for some of the very best pristine swimming spots in Massachusetts: 1. Some have easy access, like Long Pond, and others take a little bit of a hike to get to. Freelance writer and strawberry eater. Where to begin? This lovely swimming hole is rather secluded, so the waters stay spotlessly clean. Located in the beautiful Beartown State Forest, the pond is surrounded by hiking trails and wild blueberry bushes. this is a classic swimming hole and cliff jumping hotspot near the Sunday River ski resort; partially viewable from the road; do not swim here if the river is running high as it is very dangerous; additional swimming holes above and below the main falls, there are many great swimming holes along the "Grand Canyon of Maine", the most popular of which is at the base of Screw Auger Falls; moderately difficult and long hike to visit all swimming holes; the road access fee is steep for out-of-state visitors (bring cash), this is a popular attraction that is adjacent to the Baxter State Park park road; located on the west side of the park and is clearly visible along the main park road; bring river tubes to enjoy the natural waterslides here, the trail to this beautiful spot passes through private property, but access is currently allowed to the general public (for now at least - please pick up trash left by others to keep it that way); this is a stunning pool, but it is small & very cold (we would only swim if the outdoor temperature is greater than 80 degrees); an easy, nearly flat hike is required to get here, but make sure you bring good directions; you'll love the tropical-ish feeling this place has, but be ready for some seriously chilly water, a fun and crowded set of waterfalls and pools near Rangeley Lake; easy access off ME 26, tons of small pools for wading; several small natural waterslides; a child's dream; no pool is deep enough for actual swimming though; don't miss nearby Screw Auguer Falls (Grafton) and perhaps also a day hike to Table Rock or the Baldplates; take note that parking here is extremely limited and it is highly unlikely that you will obtain one of the coveted spots unless you go off-hours, an extremely popular series of wading pools and small waterfalls near North Conway; $5 parking fee; this is a very easy 1.2 mile round-trip hike through some very attractive woods; avoid on nice-weather summer weekends as crowds can be atrocious; make sure to explore all levels of falls and pools as there are some cool nooks and crannies to be found, including a pothole near the top that is over your head; parking is VERY limited, and so you may not be able to score a spot. Visitors are invited to explore miles of hiking and mountain bike trails, including the 22-mile Tully Trail. Get amazing travel deals when you sign up for Boston Traveler. Plus, it's not as well known as many Cape Cod beaches so the tourists are few and far between. Suit up and head to Houghton's Pond, a spring-fed kettle hole in Milton, Walden Pond in Concord, made famous by Henry David Thoreau, or the falls at Chapel Brook Reservation in Ashfield, where . From hidden forest ponds to gorgeous coastal spots, theres something for everyone. Freelance writer and strawberry eater. This beach in Wellesley is a great option. However, there are plenty of other, smaller cascades in the area that might merit a bit of exploration, so plan your time accordingly. But its totally worth it. For a larger list of the best waterfalls in Massachusetts, check out our selection of beautiful and hidden local cascades. Do you know of any other pristine swimming spots in Massachusetts that we didnt cover? Laurel Lake inside Erving State Forest is little-known, but the people who know about it love it for its clean and crisp water. Love Massachusetts? But if you have fond memories of old-fashioned, swimming holes, the folks at swimming holes.info have taken it upon themselves to compile lists of such places around this great land of. The pool at the base of the cascades is usually pretty cool, and is best at the peak of summer. Here's a few ways we're working on our mission right now: Providing information, Building and maintaining local trails, Helping and teaching kids to fix their bikes, Cleaning up local parksto provide safe and clean places to enjoy nature. Here are some of the best swimming holes in Massachusetts that you really need to know about. best hikes to swimming holes in Massachusetts. If you want to spend some relaxing time on the water, there's no better place to do it than with the Deerfield River Portage lazy river experience. However, there is additional parking just a few steps from the official lot, where you can park your car safely. 10. Looking for some great spots to cool off this summer? Do you have any favorite swimming lakes in Massachusetts? The pond is warm during the warmest months, and is a great place to bring young kids, too! It feeds Stony Brook, a Housatonic River tributary. The road trip to the most beautiful beaches in Massachusetts leads you to such hidden spots as Bound Brook Island Beach in Wellfleet, Cold Storage Beach in Dennis, and Good Harbor Beach in Gloucester. When you think about swimming on the Cape, you probably picture rolling dunes, waving beach grass, and a wide blue ocean. The Cape is full of exciting adventures. This lake makes for a special retreat. To reach the falls, youll need to hike about 1.7 miles. The beach was once reached by a 40-step stairway, which gave rise to its name. The gentle swirling water collects in shallow pools that are perfect for wading, and there are deeper areas for those looking to swim. The swimming at Umpachene Falls Park is among the best. Swimming Picnic Locations Fishing Canoeing Kayaking 6 Lulu Brook 1041 Cascade St., Pittsfield, Massachusetts Located in the Pittsfield State Forest, this spring fed swimming hole offers a retreat from searing hot summer days in a lovely sylvan setting. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Which one of these is your favorite? (94 Lakeview Road, Shutesbury). Swimming Mountain Biking Hiking 7 Otis Reservoir 410 Tolland Road, Otis, Massachusetts Theres just something about waterfalls that makes a swimming hole extra-special, we think. By recording your visit on FreeArenas.com, you'll have a collection of all the great places you've been and provide valuable information for yourself and others in the future. When she's not busy playing with her several guinea pigs or her cat Finlay Kirstin is writing articles to help other pet owners. Massachusetts native. Luckily, Massachusetts is peppered with plenty of delightful places to spend some time in the water. That would truly be a shame, as these swimming holes are some of the most wonderful natural attractions in all of New England. Learn about swimming holes such as Scantic Rapids, Granville Gorge, Dean Pond, Huntington Area, Orange Dam, Hubbard River, Puffers Pond, Lake Mashapaug, Satans. Is there anything else you want to add? It is one of the most popular of the holes, due to the fact that it is located mere feet from the busiest highway in the area, Route 2. And lastly, Chapel Brook Falls in Ashfield is the best of both worlds and includes one of the best swimming holes in Massachusetts at the base of the 45-foot cascading waterfall. This is a magnificent spot to go during those particularly brutal summer heat waves. Find the perfect getaway, grab special fares for local and international trips, and much more. As temperatures climb, youre sure to be searching the state for a place to cool off. Featuring sparkling waters and a beautiful waterfall created by a dam, it's a great place to cool off and snap a few scenic photos at the same time. Massachusetts has over 400 documented waterfalls that you can visit, meaning that there are incredible hikes all around the state that will bring you straight to a waterfall. There are quite a few grills and picnic tables dotting the shore, and plenty of space to spread a blanket. There's also an immaculately maintained picnic area. Added bonuses include waterfalls and a few deep swimming holes. Manage Settings You've just found one of the best! On some USGS maps, the pond is designated as Factory Hollow Pond in addition to its other names. At low tide, you can walk to nearby Salt Island. Enter your email in the box below to get the most mind-blowing animal stories and videos delivered directly to your inbox every day. October Mountain is the largest state forest in Massachusetts, and it clocks in at a massive 16,500 acres. For added adventure, you can visit Puffers Ponds waterfall or hike along one of the local trails, where youll set out deep into the forest, catching views of the Mill River and encountering the areas wildlife. Want a classic beach day experience but don't feel like traveling all the way to the coast? After youve swam in the swimming hole, check out the Cape Cod inflatable water park for even more water activities. Outly also has camping, hiking and other map information that you can use to plan your next outdoor adventure. Just get back before the waters rise again! Love Massachusetts? Hathaways Pond in Hyannis is just such a place. Q&A: Where Can Kids Take Swim Lessons in the Summer? What are the best waterfall hikes in Massachusetts? Located in the Tolland State Forest, this spot is actually one of the largest bodies of water in Massachusetts. The land may have eroded away, but this swimming spot is still the perfect place to get away from it all. There are a few different "levels" where you can sit and admire the rushing spray of the falls. Are you looking for some fantastic places to cool off in the summer? There are tables and swings in the adjacent park, so be sure to bring provisions for an afternoon outside. We've recorded your comments. Parking is available. This gorgeous beach has plenty of shallow areas that absolutely glimmer in the sunshine. Hathaway's Pond, Barnstable Tripadvisor/Jamie S. This place has exceptionally clear and blue water. If you've been looking for beaches in Massachusetts near me, you've just hit paydirt, finding one of the best. It feeds Stony Brook, a Housatonic River tributary. There are tons of great places to take a dip all over the state. Perch on a rock with a delightful book, or splash around in the water. 1. If you don't mind a touch of grass and some reeds, this place is an incredibly private and peaceful place to take a dip. Start planning your visit to this, No town resident sticker is required for this public beach, and there is oodles of parking. When the kids are out of school for the summer, its time to start planning those epic family vacations. The water is usually pretty warm, and exceptionally clean. What is there for kids to do in summer in Massachusetts? Lets dive in! And if youre lucky, that means gorgeous swimming holes in Massachusetts for you to enjoy! The nearby towns might eventually become ecologically dependent on it. The sandy beach is monitored by lifeguards, and there is a small boat launch area for those looking to do a bit of kayaking or canoeing. Pony Mountain is also nearby, which offers spectacular views of the valley beneath. Well send you our daily roundup of all our favorite stories from across the site, from travel to food to shopping to entertainment. For more awesome places to take a dip in Massachusetts, check out these little-known places to swim that will make your summer epic. Coast Guard Beach is a great place to spot a few seals, as well. Heads up, parking will cost you $10. There's plenty of beach space for all, and it's only steps away from the beautiful and historic Chatham Lighthouse. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Massachusetts Swimming Holes BUCK RIVER | Sandisfield, MA. features several swimming holes, natural waterslides, and sunny slabs; you really have to be careful here - do not visit if river water level is running moderate or high! It is near the road so there is not much privacy. Crystal Lake (Newton) Crystal Lake is located in a quiet, posh neighborhood. Here are 12 little known beaches in Massachusetts worth discovering. As one of the best swimming holes in Massachusetts, this is not a spot that youll want to miss! Bring your kayak for a peaceful paddle around this beautiful spot. If youre looking for a grassy place to have a lakeside picnic, this is a great option. Places to Swim near Marlborough - Where to find Beaches, Lakes, Pools, Swimming Holes, and More near Marlborough MA The water is surrounded by trees and houses, and there are three main entry points: Cronin's Cove, Levingston Cove, and Crystal Lake Beach (with a bathhouse and lifeguards). The public places great value on the variety of sceneries along the Mill River, particularly Puffers Pond. Grab your gear and get ready to enjoy one of the best swimming holes in Massachusetts. On a hot, sticky summer day, theres nothing like diving into a cool swimming hole. Deadline to sign up is Friday, January 27, 2023. It's the perfect spot to cool off after a quick hike through the woods. There are two different types of white ferrets! Start planning your day under the sun at, Though the rest of the world may know Walden Pond as Henry David Thoreaus favorite haunt, Massachusetts natives know it as a great place to cool off during the hot summer months. Houghtons Pond is monitored by Department of Conservation and Recreation lifeguards in the summer, making it one of the safer swimming areas. Now, the water is well tended to and filtered. Is there anything else you want to add? To enjoy this spot is still the perfect place to have a lakeside picnic, this spot is actually swimming holes massachusetts. Favorite stories from across the countryside, there is a small boat launch ) or just splashing in... 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