3 Places
Swimming hole in Bennington, Vermont · Other
3 Places is a natural swimming hole. It is near Bennington, Vermont. Access is free. Best season: Summer months of July and August for swimming.
Typical season: Summer months of July and August for swimming
About 3 Places
Near Bennington in Vermont, 3 Places offers a straightforward outdoor swim on Varies See Description.
The Batten Kill River corridor and the Green Mountain backcountry set the scene: think moss-covered banks, the sound of moving water filtering through stands of birch and maple, and skies that seem somehow bluer once you're surrounded by all that green.
The Setting & Landscape Arlington Green is perhaps the most immediately rewarding of the three spots. Situated along the Batten Kill River near a historic covered bridge, it carries the unmistakable charm of old Vermont. The kind of place that feels like it belongs on a postcard, except you're actually standing in it. The covered bridge frames the scene perfectly, its weathered timbers reflected in the clear, cool river water below. In late September and October, the surrounding hillsides erupt in fiery reds, burnt oranges, and gold, making this one of the finest spots in the region for autumn photography even when the . No Name Hole lives up to its mysterious title. Reaching it may require a bit of off-road exploration and a willingness to follow faint trails, but the payoff is a more secluded, intimate experience away from the crowds. Wildlife sightings. Deer at the water's edge, herons wading in the shallows. Are more common here precisely because fewer people make the trip. Grout Pond, the only officially recognized . It's the most developed option, offering bathrooms on-site and even camping for those who want to make a full weekend of it.
Swim at your own risk at 3 Places. Check conditions after rain and respect any posted closures.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Fee
- Free
- Nearest town
- Bennington
- State
- Vermont
- Best season
- Summer months of July and August for swimming; late September through October for stunning fall foliage photography.
- Access difficulty
- Moderate; Arlington Green is easily accessible, while 'No Name Hole' may require off-road exploration.
- Restrooms
- None on site
- Lifeguard
- Present (seasonal)
- Cliff jumping
- Reported
- Camping
- At Grout Pond
- Activities
- Swimming, Jumping
- Facilities
- Bathrooms available at Grout Pond; Arlington Green and 'No Name Hole' have no facilities, so plan accordingly.
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visit Summer months of July and August for swimming; late September through October for stunning fall foliage photography.
- Access Moderate; Arlington Green is easily accessible, while 'No Name Hole' may require off-road exploration.
- Facilities Bathrooms available at Grout Pond; Arlington Green and 'No Name Hole' have no facilities, so plan accordingly.
- Camping nearby At Grout Pond
Highlights & features
- Covered bridge near Arlington Green
- Clear, cool waters
- Wildlife in the area
- Autumn foliage photography
- Accessible swimming spots
- Historic covered bridge near Arlington Green
- Blend of shallow and deep water for varied activities
- Vivid autumn foliage surrounding the swimming holes
How to get there
3 Places lies in Vermont near Bennington, Arlington, and West Arlington. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.
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Location: Arlington Green State: Vermont (VT) Nearby Towns
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Bennington, Arlington, West Arlington, East Arlington turn-by-turn Directions
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Begin in Bennington, Vermont.
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Take Route 7A (RT 7A) north toward Arlington.
Continue on RT 7A for about 15 miles until you reach the intersection with Route 313 (RT 313). Turn left onto RT 313 and proceed west. After about 1 mile, look for the historic covered bridge on your left. This is a key landmark near the .
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Parking and Final Approach
Parking is available near the covered bridge. Be mindful of posted signs and ensure you are parked in designated areas to avoid blocking traffic or private property. Once parked, walk toward the covered bridge. The . Coordinates for Reference: Latitude: 43.10406 Longitude: -73.22041 Have a safe visit to Arlington Green ! Always exercise caution when .
Plan your visit
3 Places works well as a day trip from Bennington or Arlington. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Combine the swim with camping at Cavendish Gorge or browse more Vermont other spots in our directory. For the full list in Vermont, see our state directory.
Access & fees
No fee is indicated. There are no bathroom facilities at this location. Parking is available near the covered bridge; always park in designated areas and respect private property.
Top picks for this trip
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
For most swimmers, the Earth Pak is the easy default — tough, affordable, and it comes with the phone case you were going to buy anyway.
Check price on
Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Bottle
A do-everything bottle that holds ice through a full hot day at the water.
Check price onDisclosure: Gear links may earn a commission as an Amazon Associate — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
What to pack for 3 Places
Gear we compare side by side for other swims like this one — water access, sun, and the hike in.
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at 3 Places?
Yes. 3 Places near Bennington, Arlington, and West Arlington in VT is a varies see description swimming spot on Varies See Description. Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.
Is 3 Places free?
Access is generally free (fee listed as “None”). Confirm any parking or day-use rules on site, and pack out trash.
How do you get to 3 Places?
3 Places is in VT within day-trip range of Bennington, Arlington, and West Arlington. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
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Culture & history
The covered bridge at Arlington Green is a symbol of Vermont’s historical architecture, blending human craftsmanship with natural beauty.
Conservation
Follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the water and surrounding wildlife. Avoid pollutants and pack out all waste.
Sources & updates
Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.