Cold River Swimming Holes Of Western Maine
Swimming hole in Bethel, Maine · River
Guide to Rattlesnake Pool and Emerald Pool on the Cold River in Western Maine. Find directions, safety tips, and seasonal info for these unofficial swimming spots.
About Cold River Swimming Holes Of Western Maine
Tucked into the forested hills of Western Maine, near the quiet towns of Bethel and Gilead, the Cold River swimming holes are the kind of places you stumble upon and never quite forget. Carved over millennia by mountain brooks tumbling through granite and glacial debris, these natural pools sit within a landscape of towering conifers, moss-draped boulders, and the kind of deep, cathedral silence that only old-growth forest can produce. This is swimming in its most elemental form — no ropes, no lifeguards, no concession stands — just cold, clear water and the sound of moving current.
The Setting and Landscape
The two crown jewels of this stretch are Rattlesnake Pool and Emerald Pool, each with its own distinct personality. Rattlesnake Pool earns its reputation through color alone — the water holds a naturally emerald hue that seems almost impossible, the result of light filtering through dense forest canopy and refracting off pale, smooth riverbed stone. Emerald Pool, downstream and slightly more dramatic, rewards bolder visitors with high jumping rocks that draw a loyal following of thrill-seekers every summer. Both pools are surrounded by dense woodland that enhances the sense of seclusion, and the gorges and small waterfalls feeding each pool create a backdrop that photographers and painters return to season after season. Wildlife is abundant — keep your eyes open for songbirds, white-tailed deer, and the occasional great blue heron picking its way along the shallows.
The Swimming Experience
The Cold River lives up to its name. Even on the warmest August afternoon, the water carries a bracing chill that makes the initial plunge feel electric — and the relief from summer heat all the more satisfying. Clarity is excellent; you can watch sunlight ripple across the rocky bottom in the shallower sections, while the deeper pools at Emerald Pool are dark and inviting for those confident enough to jump from the surrounding ledges. Swimming here requires a sense of adventure and self-sufficiency. There are no facilities of any kind on site, so you'll want to arrive prepared with water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. The hikes to reach each pool are moderate — roughly half a mile to three-quarters of a mile on marked trails with varied terrain — making them accessible to most reasonably fit visitors while still feeling genuinely earned.
Plan Your Visit
The sweet spot for a visit runs from late May through September, when warm weather makes the cold water feel like a reward rather than a shock. Autumn visits offer something different entirely: the surrounding hardwoods ignite in reds and golds, and the crowds thin considerably. Two developed campgrounds along Route 113 put you within easy reach of the swimming holes if you want to make a weekend of it. The nearest services and accommodations are in Bethel, a charming Western Maine town with dining, lodging, and outfitter shops, while Gilead sits just to the north and serves as the quieter gateway into this stretch of river country. Admission is free. Come early on summer weekends to claim your spot on the rocks before the pools fill with fellow admirers of these remarkable, emerald-tinged waters.
The experience
- Best time to visit Late spring through early fall (May to September) offers optimal conditions with warmer weather and clearer trails. Autumn visits showcase vibrant foliage.
- Access Moderate. Both swimming holes require hikes of approximately 0.5–0.75 miles on marked trails with varying terrain.
- Facilities No facilities directly at the swimming holes; visitors should bring essential supplies. Developed campgrounds are available nearby along Route 113.
- Camping nearby Two developed campgrounds along RT 113.
Highlights & features
- Emerald-green waters of Rattlesnake Pool
- Deep dives and jumps at Emerald Pool
- Scenic hiking trails leading to swimming spots
- Wildlife and plant life in surrounding forests
- Photography opportunities with waterfalls and gorges
- Rattlesnake Pool's naturally emerald waters
- Emerald Pool's high jumping rocks
- Secluded upper pools for quiet swimming
How to get there
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Rattlesnake Pool (Rattlesnake Brook) Driving Directions
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Begin in Bethel, Maine. Take Route 2 west toward Gilead.
In Gilead, turn onto Route 113 south. This is a scenic road that crosses into New Hampshire. After crossing into New Hampshire, continue on Route 113 south for about 1 mile.
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Turn left (east) onto Stone House Road.
Follow Stone House Road and turn right (south) onto Shell Pond Road.
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Drive to the end of Shell Pond Road and park at the gate. Trail Directions
From the parking area, hike along the road for approximately 0.5 miles until you reach a grassy area used as a landing strip. From the landing strip, follow the Stonehouse Trail north for a little over 0.5 miles to a wooden footbridge. At the footbridge, look to the left to see a waterfall in the distance. This waterfall has cut a gorge about 20 feet deep into the rock. To access the swimming holes: Continue past the bridge and take a small side trail to the left. This trail curves around to the falls. You can swim in the small pool above the falls or cross the stream to reach the larger pool under the falls. Alternatively, take a right side trail just before the bridge to reach a deeper pool to the right of the bridge. This pool is less secluded but still suitable for swimming.
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Helpful Notes
Bathing suits are customary when families are present but optional at other times. The most secluded swimming spots are the two pools near the falls. GPS Coordinates: Latitude 44.2561, Longitude -70.9758 Google Maps Link: 44.2561, -70.9758
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Emerald Pool (Charles Brook) Driving Directions
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Begin in Bethel, Maine. Take Route 2 west toward Gilead.
In Gilead, turn onto Route 113 south. This is a scenic road that crosses into New Hampshire. Continue on Route 113 south for approximately 1.25 miles past Stone House Road. Look for the trailhead for the Baldface Circle Trail on your right and park here. If you reach the Cold River AMC campground, you have gone too far. Trail Directions: From the parking area, follow the Baldface Circle Trail west for approximately 0.75 miles. Look for a minor gorge along Charles Brook. The Emerald Pool is located here.
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Helpful Notes
The pool is quite deep, about 12 feet in the middle, and features rocks on both sides that allow jumps ranging from 6 inches to 12 feet. Bathing suits are customary when families are present but optional at other times. A smaller pool above the falls is traditionally used when families are below. Emerald Pool can be crowded during summer youth camp season, so the upper pool may be a quieter option. GPS Coordinates: Latitude 44.23753, Longitude -71.0286 Google Maps Link: 44.23753, -71.0286 Enjoy your visit to the Cold River Swimming Holes! Always practice Leave No Trace principles and respect the natural environment.
Plan your visit
The sweet spot for a visit runs from late May through September, when warm weather makes the cold water feel like a reward rather than a shock. Autumn visits offer something different entirely: the surrounding hardwoods ignite in reds and golds, and the crowds thin considerably. Two developed campgrounds along Route 113 put you within easy reach of the swimming holes if you want to make a weekend of it. The nearest services and accommodations are in Bethel, a charming Western Maine town with dining, lodging, and outfitter shops, while Gilead sits just to the north and serves as the quieter gateway into this stretch of river country. Admission is free. Come early on summer weekends to claim your spot on the rocks before the pools fill with fellow admirers of these remarkable, emerald-tinged waters.
The sweet spot for a visit runs from late May through September, when warm weather makes the cold water feel like a reward rather than a shock. Autumn visits offer something different entirely: the surrounding hardwoods ignite in reds and golds, and the crowds thin considerably. Two developed campgrounds along Route 113 put you within easy reach of the swimming holes if you want to make a weekend of it. The nearest services and accommodations are in Bethel, a charming Western Maine town with dining, lodging, and outfitter shops, while Gilead sits just to the north and serves as the quieter gateway into this stretch of river country. Admission is free. Come early on summer weekends to claim your spot on the rocks before the pools fill with fellow admirers of these remarkable, emerald-tinged waters.
Access & fees
These are unofficial, natural swimming holes with no facilities, fees, or lifeguards. Parking is at trailheads; access requires a hike. Water conditions like depth and current vary seasonally. Respect private property and follow all posted signage.
These are unofficial, natural swimming holes with no facilities, fees, or lifeguards. Parking is at trailheads; access requires a hike. Water conditions like depth and current vary seasonally. Respect private property and follow all posted signage.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cold River Swimming Holes of Western Maine free to visit?
Cold River Swimming Holes of Western Maine is generally free to access. No entry fee is commonly reported, though parking passes or day-use fees can be introduced — always confirm current rules before heading out.
Is swimming allowed at Cold River Swimming Holes of Western Maine?
Yes, Cold River Swimming Holes of Western Maine is an officially sanctioned recreation area where swimming is permitted. Reported activities include: Swimming, Jumping. Always respect posted closures and seasonal restrictions.
What type of swimming spot is Cold River Swimming Holes of Western Maine?
Cold River Swimming Holes of Western Maine is a river on Varies-see below located in ME, near BETHEL. Guide to Rattlesnake Pool and Emerald Pool on the Cold River in Western Maine. Find directions, safety tips, and seasonal info for these unofficial swimming spots.
When is the best time to visit Cold River Swimming Holes of Western Maine?
The best time to visit Cold River Swimming Holes of Western Maine is Late spring through early fall (May to September) offers optimal conditions with warmer weather and clearer trails. Autumn visits showcase vibrant foliage.. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather — always check conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.
What facilities are available at Cold River Swimming Holes of Western Maine?
Reported facilities at Cold River Swimming Holes of Western Maine include: No facilities directly at the swimming holes; visitors should bring essential supplies. Developed campgrounds are available nearby along Route 113.. Amenities can change — contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.
Is camping available near Cold River Swimming Holes of Western Maine?
Two developed campgrounds along RT 113.
Nearby swimming holes
Culture & history
Bethel and Gilead’s historical roots date back to the 19th century, with Gilead named for its Balm of Gilead trees. The Cold River Area reflects Maine’s rugged and unspoiled wilderness.
Conservation
Visitors should adhere to Leave No Trace principles by carrying out trash, avoiding wildlife disturbance, and preserving the area’s natural features.