Crawford Notch Region Swimming Holes
Swimming hole in Twin Mountain, New Hampshire · Waterfall
Guide to swimming holes & waterfalls in NH's Crawford Notch. Find directions, safety tips, and seasonal advice for Ammonoosuc Falls, Ripley Falls, and Arethusa Falls.
About Crawford Notch Region Swimming Holes
Tucked into the heart of New Hampshire's White Mountains, the Crawford Notch region delivers one of the most varied and rewarding collections of natural swimming destinations in New England. Threading along Route 302 through a dramatic glacial valley hemmed in by granite walls and old-growth forest, this corridor offers everything from a quick roadside dip to a full wilderness adventure — all without an admission fee. The air here smells of cold water and balsam fir, and the soundtrack is the persistent rush of mountain streams tumbling over ancient stone.
The Setting and Its Many Faces
Crawford Notch is not a single swimming hole but a family of them, each with its own personality. Lower Ammonoosuc Falls greets you with a gentle, welcoming energy — shallow pools spread across smooth ledges, warm enough by midsummer for children to splash and families to linger. A few miles away, Upper Ammonoosuc Falls is a different animal entirely: water-carved chutes and hidden cave-like alcoves that reward the bold with a more exhilarating experience. Ripley Falls and Arethusa Falls — the tallest waterfall in New Hampshire — command a kind of reverence, their misty curtains dropping through cathedral forest canopy into cool, shaded pools below. And for those willing to commit to a serious backcountry push, The Pool on the Shoal Pond Trail offers the rare reward of true solitude at the end of a roughly 16-mile journey through untouched White Mountain wilderness.
What to Expect in the Water
These are mountain waterfall pools, which means the water runs cold and clear year-round, fed directly by snowmelt and high-elevation springs. Even in August, you'll feel the chill the moment you wade in — a bracing, crystalline cold that sharpens the senses and makes every minute in the water feel earned. Visibility is excellent in most pools; you can watch the current swirl over mossy boulders beneath your feet. Depths vary considerably by site and season: the calmer pools at Lower Ammonoosuc Falls tend to be shallower and safer for younger swimmers, while the plunge pools beneath Arethusa Falls and at Upper Ammonoosuc Falls can be significantly deeper. Water levels drop and currents ease through late summer, making August and early September ideal for exploring the more adventurous spots safely.
Plan Your Visit
All swimming here is unofficial — there are no lifeguards, no facilities, and no formal amenities on site, so visitors should come self-sufficient and exercise sound judgment about water conditions and personal ability. Admission is free. The closest base towns are Twin Mountain and Bretton Woods, both within easy driving distance along Route 302 and offering lodging and supplies. If you want to sleep under the stars, the Zealand Recreation Area in the White Mountain National Forest provides camping just off Route 302 — an ideal staging ground for a multi-day exploration of the notch. Come in late summer for the most swimmable conditions at the upper falls, or time a visit for early October when the maples and birches ignite and Ripley Falls frames itself in amber and crimson. Wear water shoes, tell someone your plans, and let the mountains do the rest.
The experience
- Best time to visit Late spring through early autumn offers the best conditions. Visit in late summer for calmer waters at Upper Ammonoosuc Falls or autumn for breathtaking foliage views around Ripley Falls and Arethusa Falls.
- Access Varies from easy (Lower Ammonoosuc Falls) to challenging (16-mile hike to 'The Pool'). Check trail conditions and plan accordingly.
- Facilities No on-site facilities. Bring all necessary supplies, including food, water, and first aid. Nearby camping is available at Zealand Recreation Area.
- Camping nearby None at site. Camp nearby off RT 302 at Zealand Recreation Area in National Forest.
Highlights & features
- Family-friendly swimming at Lower Ammonoosuc Falls
- Thrilling chutes and caves at Upper Ammonoosuc Falls
- Stunning views from Ripley Falls
- Remote adventure at 'The Pool' on Shoal Pond Trail
- Tallest waterfalls in NH at Arethusa Falls
- Diverse swimming experiences, from tranquil pools to adventurous chutes
- Spectacular views of towering waterfalls and lush forests
- Opportunities for wildlife observation and nature photography
How to get there
Swimming Hole Directions for Crawford Notch Region, NH
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Lower Ammonoosuc Falls Description
Lower Ammonoosuc Falls is a small waterfall on the Ammonoosuc River that flows into a large, calm pool. This spot is ideal for families and offers opportunities for sliding on the falls, sunbathing on rocks, and jumping into the water. Directions:
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From Franconia Notch, take Route 3 east toward Twin Mountain.
At Twin Mountain, turn onto Route 302 east. Continue on Route 302 for approximately 3.5 miles until you see a street sign for Old Cherry Mountain Road on the left, along with a sign for "Lower Ammonoosuc Falls." Turn left onto Old Cherry Mountain Road, then immediately turn left again into the parking area.
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Park and walk about 5 minutes down the gravel road to reach the falls and pool below. Coordinates
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Latitude: 44.26982, Longitude: -71.48334 Safety Tip
This location offers gentler swimming conditions compared to Upper Ammonoosuc Falls.
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Upper Ammonoosuc Falls Description
Upper Ammonoosuc Falls is located along Deception Brook, a tributary of the Ammonoosuc River. This area features chutes, pools, and underwater passages. Swimming is safe during lower water levels, typically in late summer, but extremely dangerous during high water levels due to strong currents and whirlpools. Directions:
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From Twin Mountain, continue east on Route 302 for approximately 4.9 miles.
Look for the sign for the Mount Washington Cog Railway on the left and turn north onto Base Station Road. Drive about 2.2 miles to a parking area on the right, marked by a mound of dirt at the far end.
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Park and follow the path upstream toward the sound of the falls. Coordinates
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Latitude: 44.26580, Longitude: -71.41671 Safety Tip
Do not swim here during high currents or after heavy rain. Observe the water conditions carefully before entering. Ripley Falls Description: Ripley Falls is a 100-foot waterfall with swimming holes and pools located above the falls. The area offers spectacular views and is a great spot to relax after a summer hike. Avoid climbing the face of the falls as the rocks are slippery; use the trail to access the top. Directions: Continue east on Route 302 and park at the Appalachian Trail crossing, located in the parking lot on the west (right) side of the road. Follow the Appalachian Trail (also known as Ethan Pond Trail) west and look for trail signs directing you to Ripley Falls. Coordinates:
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Latitude: 44.16124, Longitude: -71.39480 Safety Tip
Ensure water conditions are safe before swimming, particularly during times of low water. The Pool Description: The Pool is a remote swimming hole featuring a natural water slide. Accessing this location requires a 16-mile round-trip hike, making it suitable for experienced hikers. Directions: Park at the Appalachian Trail crossing on Route 302, as described in the Ripley Falls directions. Follow the Appalachian Trail west (also known as Ethan Pond Trail) for approximately 5 miles until you reach the junction with Shoal Pond Trail. Turn left onto Shoal Pond Trail and continue for approximately 3 miles to reach The Pool. If you reach Swiftwater Junction, you have gone about 1 mile too far. Coordinates:
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Latitude: 44.1338, Longitude: -71.4706 Safety Tip
This location is remote and unverified. Plan accordingly and bring adequate supplies for a long hike. Arethusa Falls Description: Arethusa Falls is the tallest waterfall in New Hampshire and a popular destination for hikers. The water is cold year-round, making it a refreshing spot after a summer hike. Directions: Continue east on Route 302 past the Dry River Campground and the Willey House. Look for the Arethusa Falls parking area on the right. Pull off the road and drive up the hill to park near the railroad tracks. If the parking lot is full, use the overflow parking area located at the base of the hill.
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Cross the railroad tracks and follow the Arethusa Falls Trail. Coordinates
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Latitude: 44.148, Longitude: -71.386 Safety Tip
Be aware that the trail passes close to private property near a wooden house. Respect the property boundaries while hiking. **Bemis
Plan your visit
All swimming here is unofficial — there are no lifeguards, no facilities, and no formal amenities on site, so visitors should come self-sufficient and exercise sound judgment about water conditions and personal ability. Admission is free. The closest base towns are Twin Mountain and Bretton Woods, both within easy driving distance along Route 302 and offering lodging and supplies. If you want to sleep under the stars, the Zealand Recreation Area in the White Mountain National Forest provides camping just off Route 302 — an ideal staging ground for a multi-day exploration of the notch. Come in late summer for the most swimmable conditions at the upper falls, or time a visit for early October when the maples and birches ignite and Ripley Falls frames itself in amber and crimson. Wear water shoes, tell someone your plans, and let the mountains do the rest.
All swimming here is unofficial — there are no lifeguards, no facilities, and no formal amenities on site, so visitors should come self-sufficient and exercise sound judgment about water conditions and personal ability. Admission is free. The closest base towns are Twin Mountain and Bretton Woods, both within easy driving distance along Route 302 and offering lodging and supplies. If you want to sleep under the stars, the Zealand Recreation Area in the White Mountain National Forest provides camping just off Route 302 — an ideal staging ground for a multi-day exploration of the notch. Come in late summer for the most swimmable conditions at the upper falls, or time a visit for early October when the maples and birches ignite and Ripley Falls frames itself in amber and crimson. Wear water shoes, tell someone your plans, and let the mountains do the rest.
Access & fees
All sites are unofficial and unmaintained for swimming. Parking is roadside or in designated trailhead lots. No restrooms or changing facilities are available. Respect all trail signs and private property boundaries. Access to 'The Pool' requires a 16-mile round-trip hike.
All sites are unofficial and unmaintained for swimming. Parking is roadside or in designated trailhead lots. No restrooms or changing facilities are available. Respect all trail signs and private property boundaries. Access to 'The Pool' requires a 16-mile round-trip hike.
Frequently asked questions
Is Crawford Notch Region Swimming Holes free to visit?
Crawford Notch Region Swimming Holes may require a fee or pass. Reported fee: No. Fees and hours change seasonally — verify current pricing with the managing agency before your visit.
Is swimming allowed at Crawford Notch Region Swimming Holes?
Yes, Crawford Notch Region Swimming Holes is an officially sanctioned recreation area where swimming is permitted. Reported activities include: Swimming. Always respect posted closures and seasonal restrictions.
What type of swimming spot is Crawford Notch Region Swimming Holes?
Crawford Notch Region Swimming Holes is a falls on Varies, see below located in NH, near TWIN MOUNTAIN. Guide to swimming holes & waterfalls in NH's Crawford Notch. Find directions, safety tips, and seasonal advice for Ammonoosuc Falls, Ripley Falls, and Arethusa Falls.
When is the best time to visit Crawford Notch Region Swimming Holes?
The best time to visit Crawford Notch Region Swimming Holes is Late spring through early autumn offers the best conditions. Visit in late summer for calmer waters at Upper Ammonoosuc Falls or autumn for breathtaking foliage views around Ripley Falls and Arethusa Falls.. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather — always check conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.
What facilities are available at Crawford Notch Region Swimming Holes?
Reported facilities at Crawford Notch Region Swimming Holes include: No on-site facilities. Bring all necessary supplies, including food, water, and first aid. Nearby camping is available at Zealand Recreation Area.. Amenities can change — contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.
Is camping available near Crawford Notch Region Swimming Holes?
None at site. Camp nearby off RT 302 at Zealand Recreation Area in National Forest.
Nearby swimming holes
Culture & history
The Crawford Notch area is steeped in history, from its significance in early hiking culture to its role in New Hampshire's conservation legacy. The nearby Willey House commemorates a tragic landslide that shaped local history.
Conservation
Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife. Help preserve the natural beauty of these swimming holes.