Adams Hole

Tucked into the rolling hills of northeastern Vermont, Adams Hole is the kind of swimming spot that rewards those willing to seek it out. This unofficial natural swimming area sits along Joes Brook, a clear, cold-running stream that winds through the forested countryside connecting the communities of St. Johnsbury, East Barnet, and Danville. There are no signs pointing the way, no parking attendants, and no concession stands — just the brook, the trees, and the sound of water moving over stone.

The Setting and Landscape

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.

Swimming in Joes Brook

Don't let the small size of a brook fool you — the natural basin at Adams Hole offers a genuinely refreshing swim. The water runs remarkably cool even during the hottest weeks of July and August, fed by shaded woodland tributaries that keep temperatures brisk. The clarity is striking: you can see straight to the gravel and smooth stone bottom below. This is brook swimming at its purest — no lap lanes, no chlorine, just cold, clean water and the gentle current pressing against you as you ease in. The pool is best suited for wading, floating, and leisurely splashing rather than distance swimming, making it an ideal spot for families with older children or adults looking to cool off after a hike. Note that there are no lifeguards or safety staff present, so swimmers should use good judgment and stay within their comfort level.

Plan Your Visit

Adams Hole is an unofficial site with no facilities — bring everything you need, including water, snacks, and a way to pack out your trash. The access road is unpaved gravel, so drive carefully and allow extra time. There is no fee to visit. The best time to come is during the summer months of June through August, when water levels are consistent and temperatures make swimming genuinely enjoyable. Fall visits are worth considering if photography or foliage-watching is your goal. The nearest towns — St. Johnsbury, East Barnet, and Danville — each offer places to grab a meal, fuel up, or find lodging before or after your visit. St. Johnsbury in particular, roughly the largest of the three, provides a full range of services and makes a convenient base for exploring this quiet corner of Vermont's Northeast Kingdom.

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.

Follow Leave No Trace principles. Avoid disrupting wildlife and ensure personal waste is packed out to preserve the area’s pristine condition.