Adams Hole
Swimming hole in St. Johnsbury, Vermont · Creek
Adams Hole near St. Johnsbury and East Barnet, Vermont is a quiet Joes Brook swimming hole with no signs, gates, or facilities. Access is free and informal — watch slippery stone, pack out trash, and respect nearby private land.
Typical season: Summer months from June to August offer optimal
About Adams Hole
Adams Hole gives you brook swimming access near St. Johnsbury in Vermont. Expect a natural bank, not a built beach. Johnsbury, East Barnet, and Danville. There are no signs pointing the way, no entry gates, and no snack bars. Just the brook, the trees, and the sound of water moving over stone. The scene at Adams Hole is quintessentially Vermont. A natural basin, carved slowly over centuries by the patient work of erosion, cradles a pool of crystal-clear water beneath a canopy of hardwoods and conifers. In summer, the light filters green through the leaves and dapples the surface of the brook. The banks are natural and unmanicured. Expect moss-covered rocks, tree roots at the water's edge, and the occasional glimpse of a white-tailed deer or woodland bird moving through the underbrush. The terrain leading to the water is uneven in places, so you'll want to watch your footing. Come fall, the surrounding hillsides ignite with brilliant reds, oranges, and golds, making this one of the more photogenic corners of the Northeast Kingdom. The natural basin at Adams Hole offers a genuinely refreshing swim. The clarity is striking: you can see straight to the gravel and smooth stone bottom below. Swim at your own risk at Adams Hole. 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.
- Water type
- Brook
- Water body
- Joes Brook
- Fee
- Free
- Nearest town
- St. Johnsbury
- State
- Vermont
- Coordinates
- 44.34333, -72.01565
- Best season
- Summer months from June to August offer optimal . Fall is excellent for scenic photography with vibrant foliage.
- Access difficulty
- Moderate. The gravel road requires careful driving, and the natural terrain leading to the swimming area.
- Parking
- Roadside / pull-off
- Restrooms
- None on site
- Lifeguard
- None — assume unguarded
- Camping
- Not at site.
- Activities
- Swimming
- Facilities
- No facilities available. You should plan to bring all necessary supplies, including water, food, and towels.
- Listing last updated
- July 11, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visitSummer months from June to August offer optimal . Fall is excellent for scenic photography with vibrant foliage.
- AccessModerate. The gravel road requires careful driving, and the natural terrain leading to the swimming area.
- FacilitiesNo facilities available. You should plan to bring all necessary supplies, including water, food, and towels.
- Camping nearbyNot at site.
Highlights & features
- Crystal-clear waters of Joes Brook
- Secluded natural setting
- Ideal for summer swimming
- Rich local wildlife
- Photography opportunities in lush surroundings
- Natural basin shaped by centuries of erosion
- Seclusion with no facilities or crowds
- Refreshing cool water even in peak summer
How to get there
Adams Hole lies in Vermont near St. Johnsbury, East Barnet, and Danville. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Adams Hole is a scenic swimming destination. Johnsbury, East Barnet, and Danville, Vermont. Use these driving notes to reach this location:
Starting Point: St. Johnsbury, VT
Begin your journey in St. Johnsbury. Head south on VT Route 5 (Main Street).
Turn onto Joe's Brook Road about 2 miles before reaching East Barnet, turn west (right) onto Joe's Brook Road. This turn is well-marked, so keep an eye out for the road sign.
Follow Joe's Brook Road Toward Danville Continue driving on Joe's Brook Road toward Danville. The road will transition from paved to gravel after a short distance. Locate the Pull-Off Once the road becomes gravel, drive about 0.5 miles further. Look for a pull-off area on the right-hand side of the road. This pull-off is unmarked but provides space for parking. Access the Park your vehicle at the pull-off. From here, the swimming area. You may need to walk a short distance down to the brook, so wear sturdy footwear and exercise caution on uneven terrain.
Additional Notes
Parking is limited at the pull-off, so plan accordingly during peak times. There are no formal trailheads or signs marking the swimming area. Respect the natural environment and leave no trace to preserve the beauty of the site. Have a safe visit to Adams Hole! 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.
Plan your visit
Adams Hole works well as a day trip from St. Johnsbury or East Barnet. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Pair the swim with a stop at Swiftwater Bridge (about 15 mi away) or browse more Vermont creek spots in our directory. For the full list in Vermont, see our state directory.
Access & fees
Access is via an unmarked pull-off on a gravel road. Parking is limited and unofficial. There are no restrooms, changing areas, or trash services. Visitors must practice Leave No Trace principles.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Adams Hole in Vermont?
A brook swimming hole near St. Johnsbury, East Barnet, and Danville in the Northeast Kingdom — unsigned and informal.
Is Adams Hole Vermont free?
Yes — no swim fee is on file. There are no facilities. Pack out trash and stay off posted private land.
How cold is Adams Hole?
It is a Vermont brook pool — expect cold water even in July. Limit swim time and never jump without checking depth the same day.
Can you swim at Adams Hole?
Yes. Adams Hole near St. Johnsbury, East Barnet, and Danville in VT is a brook swimming spot on Joes Brook. Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.
Is Adams Hole 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 Adams Hole?
Adams Hole is in VT within day-trip range of St. Johnsbury, East Barnet, and Danville. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
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Map & location
Culture & history
Located near St. Johnsbury, a town with deep historical roots in Vermont’s development. Joes Brook and the surrounding area hold cultural significance tied to the region's natural resources.
Conservation
Follow Leave No Trace principles. Avoid disrupting wildlife and ensure personal waste is packed out to preserve the area’s pristine condition.
Sources & updates
Reference sources
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