Falls Of Lana
Swimming hole in Middlebury, Vermont · Creek
Falls Of Lana is a brook swimming hole. It is near Middlebury, Vermont. Access is free. Best season: Summer (June-August) offers the best.
Typical season: Summer (June-August) offers the best
About Falls Of Lana
Falls Of Lana gives you brook swimming access near Middlebury in Vermont. Expect a natural bank, not a built beach.
Fed by the cold, clear waters of Sucker Brook, this unofficial . There are no signs directing you to a snack bar, no lifeguard whistles, no manicured lawns. Just the sound of rushing water and the soft crunch of trail underfoot.
The approach to Falls of Lana sets the tone immediately. The trail winds through lush Vermont woodland, climbing through steep sections and navigating uneven, rooty terrain that keeps casual crowds at bay. As you push upward, the air grows cooler and more humid, and the sound of cascading water grows louder before the falls finally come into view. What greets you is a dramatic series of cascades tumbling over striking rock formations. Ledges worn smooth by centuries of water. Dropping into natural pools below. The geology here is rugged and photogenic, particularly in autumn when the surrounding hardwoods ignite in brilliant oranges and reds, turning every angle into a postcard. In summer, dense green canopy filters the light into dappled patterns across the brook's surface.
No lifeguards patrol Falls Of Lana. Facilities are limited, so judge depth, current, and weather when you arrive.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- Brook
- Water body
- Sucker Brook
- Fee
- Free
- Nearest town
- Middlebury
- State
- Vermont
- Coordinates
- 43.90403, -73.16723
- Best season
- Summer (June-August) offers the best . Autumn (September-October) is perfect for photography and foliage viewing. Spring (April-May) brings dramatic water flow but cooler temperatures.
- Access difficulty
- Moderate. The hike to the falls includes steep sections and uneven terrain. Suitable for most visitors with a reasonable level of physical fitness.
- Parking
- Designated area
- Lifeguard
- Present (seasonal)
- Camping
- Not at site
- Land manager
- State park / recreation agency
- Activities
- Swimming
- Facilities
- No facilities are available on-site. You should bring their own supplies, including water, snacks, and any necessary gear.
- Last verified
- July 11, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visit Summer (June-August) offers the best . Autumn (September-October) is perfect for photography and foliage viewing. Spring (April-May) brings dramatic water flow but cooler temperatures.
- Access Moderate. The hike to the falls includes steep sections and uneven terrain. Suitable for most visitors with a reasonable level of physical fitness.
- Facilities No facilities are available on-site. You should bring their own supplies, including water, snacks, and any necessary gear.
- Camping nearby Not at site
Highlights & features
- Refreshing swimming pools fed by Sucker Brook
- Rugged rock formations and cascading waterfalls
- Moderately challenging hike to access
- Picturesque surroundings ideal for photography
- Abundant wildlife and vibrant plant life
- Secluded swimming experience
- Striking rock formations and natural slides
- Uncrowded and peaceful atmosphere
How to get there
Falls Of Lana lies in Vermont near Middlebury, Salisbury. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Falls of Lana lies near Middlebury and Salisbury, Vermont, and offers a scenic . Below are clear, turn-by-turn directions to help you reach this destination. Driving Directions: 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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Starting in Middlebury, VT
Begin by heading south on Route 7 (RT 7). Continue for about 7 miles until you reach the intersection with Route 53 (RT 53).
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Turn onto Route 53
At the intersection, turn left onto RT 53. Follow this road as it winds around the eastern side of Lake Dunmore.
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Landmark - Branbury State Park
After about 3.25 miles on RT 53, you will see Branbury State Park on your right. This is a helpful landmark to confirm you are on the correct route.
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Parking Area
Just past Branbury State Park, you will find a large parking area on your left. This parking lot is designated for visitors heading to Falls of Lana. Park here. Trail Directions: Trailhead: From the parking lot, locate the well-worn path leading uphill. This is the trail to Falls of Lana. Terrain Details: As you hike, the trail will initially ascend before leveling out. Along the way, you will pass under a large pipe that crosses the path.
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Final Approach
Shortly after passing under the pipe, look for a less obvious path branching to the left. Follow this path downhill, which becomes steep as you approach the falls. Use the sound of the water as a guide to locate the .
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Helpful notes
The parking area is spacious and free to use. The trail is well-worn but can be steep and uneven in sections, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Be cautious when descending the final stretch to the falls, as the terrain can be slippery. Have a safe visit to Falls of Lana!
Plan your visit
Falls Of Lana works well as a day trip from Middlebury or Salisbury. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Combine the swim with camping at Adams Hole or browse more Vermont creek spots in our directory. For the full list in Vermont, see our state directory.
Access & fees
This is an unofficial, natural area with no fees, facilities, or services. Parking is available in a large lot off Route 53. The trail is well-worn but can be steep and uneven; proper footwear is essential. Always check current conditions before visiting.
Top picks for this trip
Merrell Hydro Moc
If you want one shoe that handles the walk in, the swim, and the lounge afterward, the Hydro Moc is the easiest pick.
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Rainleaf Microfiber Towel
Buy two — a large for drying off and a small for gear — and you still spend less than one cotton beach towel.
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What to pack for Falls Of Lana
Gear we compare side by side for creek swims like this one — water access, sun, and the hike in.
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Falls Of Lana?
Yes. Falls Of Lana near Middlebury and Salisbury in VT has waterfall / cascade pools on Sucker Brook used for swimming. Rocks are slippery and there are no lifeguards at informal access.
Is Falls Of Lana 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 Falls Of Lana?
Falls Of Lana is in VT within day-trip range of Middlebury and Salisbury. 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 Middlebury, Vermont, the Falls of Lana is part of a region rich in history. Middlebury College and local museums provide insights into the area's cultural heritage.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles, carry out all trash, and avoid disturbing wildlife or plant life. Respect the natural beauty of the area by minimizing your impact.
Sources & updates
Official land managers cited on this page
Always confirm current rules, closures, and fees on the agency site before visiting.
Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.