(merr)
Swimming hole in Concord, New Hampshire · River
Find directions and safety tips for the unofficial Merrimack River swimming hole near Concord, NH. Learn about access, parking, and river conditions.
About (merr)
Tucked away in a residential stretch of Concord, this unofficial swimming hole on the Merrimack River offers something increasingly rare in New England: a genuinely unmanicured slice of natural riverbank where you can slip into cool, moving water without a parking attendant or entrance fee booth in sight. This is the kind of place locals have known about for generations, passed along by word of mouth rather than glossy tourism brochures.
The Setting and Landscape
The Merrimack River here moves with the quiet authority of a waterway that has shaped this region for centuries. The banks are lined with the kind of lush New England greenery that deepens to a rich, shadowed green by midsummer — overhanging trees, tall grasses, and wildflowers that hum with insects on warm afternoons. Birdsong is a constant companion; the wildlife-rich environment along the river corridor draws warblers, herons, and kingfishers, making this as much a birdwatching destination as a swimming one. The untouched natural setting gives the whole place an unhurried, almost timeless quality. You reach the water via an accessible dirt trail that involves a slight incline and some uneven footing — nothing that requires technical gear, but enough to remind you that this is a real outdoor experience, not a curated one.
Swimming the Merrimack
When you finally wade in, the Merrimack greets you with the honest coolness of a free-flowing river — not the jarring cold of a mountain brook, but a refreshing chill that feels earned on a humid July afternoon. River swimming here means reading the current, finding your footing on the riverbed, and staying alert to conditions that can change with rainfall upstream. The water carries the gentle movement of a working river with significant historical weight — the Merrimack powered the mills of New England's industrial era, and swimming in it connects you to something much older than the surrounding suburbs suggest. Come during June through August for the warmest water and the most vibrant surroundings; arrive in early autumn if you want to trade the swimming crowds for the spectacle of foliage reflected in the current.
Practical
The experience
- Best time to visit Summer months, particularly June through August, offer the warmest water temperatures and lush greenery. Early autumn is ideal for foliage photography and cooler swims.
- Access Moderate. The dirt trail requires navigating a slight incline and uneven terrain, suitable for individuals with basic mobility.
- Facilities There are no on-site facilities. Visitors should bring essentials such as water, snacks, and towels. The lack of amenities preserves the area's natural charm.
Highlights & features
- Cool, refreshing water
- Scenic riverbank views
- Birdwatching opportunities
- Accessible dirt trail
- Nearby walking trails
- Untouched natural setting
- Historical significance of the Merrimack River
- Proximity to Concord attractions
How to get there
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Starting Point
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Begin by taking Exit 15 off Interstate 93 (I-93) in Concord, New Hampshire. Route 3 North
After exiting, merge onto Route 3 North. Continue driving for approximately 1.5 miles. You will pass the New Hampshire State Prison on your left. Fork in the Road: As you approach a slight fork in the road, Route 3 will veer to the left. Look for a sign indicating Beaver Meadow Golf Course. At this fork, bear right onto Sewall’s Falls Road, heading toward Beaver Meadow.
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Landmark - Beaver Meadow School
Drive along Sewall’s Falls Road until you see Beaver Meadow School on your right-hand side.
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Turn onto Second Street
Just past the school, take a right onto Second Street. Follow this road downhill into a residential area.
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Cross Railroad Tracks
At the bottom of the hill, you will cross a set of railroad tracks. Once you cross the tracks, you will enter property managed by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (NHDES).
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Parking Area
After crossing the tracks, turn left into the parking area. Note that there are two parking areas: The parking area on the left is designated for accessing the swimming hole. The parking area on the right is intended for visitors exploring walking and mountain biking trails along the Merrimack River.
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Trail to the Swimming Hole
From the left-side parking area, locate the dirt trail at the end of the lot. Follow this trail, which leads up a slight incline and then descends to the banks of the Merrimack River. This is where the swimming hole is located.
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Helpful Notes
The area is primarily residential, so drive carefully and be mindful of local traffic. The trail is unpaved, so wear appropriate footwear for walking on uneven terrain. Parking is free, but space may be limited during busy times. Plan accordingly. Enjoy your visit to the Merrimack River swimming hole!
Plan your visit
Concord, New Hampshire's state capital, sits just minutes away and offers everything you need to round out a day trip — from downtown dining to the New Hampshire State House and local shops on Main Street. Position your swim for mid-morning to catch the best light on the water, then head into Concord afterward to explore the city's historic character. Whether you're a local looking for a familiar escape or a traveler passing through, this quiet bend of the Merrimack delivers the kind of honest, unhurried outdoor experience that's worth seeking out.
Concord, New Hampshire's state capital, sits just minutes away and offers everything you need to round out a day trip — from downtown dining to the New Hampshire State House and local shops on Main Street. Position your swim for mid-morning to catch the best light on the water, then head into Concord afterward to explore the city's historic character. Whether you're a local looking for a familiar escape or a traveler passing through, this quiet bend of the Merrimack delivers the kind of honest, unhurried outdoor experience that's worth seeking out.
Access & fees
Access is unofficial. Parking is in a designated lot after crossing railroad tracks on NHDES property. A second lot serves trail users. No facilities are present. The trail to the river is unpaved and uneven.
Access is unofficial. Parking is in a designated lot after crossing railroad tracks on NHDES property. A second lot serves trail users. No facilities are present. The trail to the river is unpaved and uneven.
Frequently asked questions
Is (MERR) free to visit?
(MERR) 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 (MERR)?
Yes, (MERR) 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 (MERR)?
(MERR) is a river on Merrimack River located in NH, near CONCORD. Find directions and safety tips for the unofficial Merrimack River swimming hole near Concord, NH. Learn about access, parking, and river conditions.
When is the best time to visit (MERR)?
The best time to visit (MERR) is Summer months, particularly June through August, offer the warmest water temperatures and lush greenery. Early autumn is ideal for foliage photography and cooler swims.. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather — always check conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.
What facilities are available at (MERR)?
Reported facilities at (MERR) include: There are no on-site facilities. Visitors should bring essentials such as water, snacks, and towels. The lack of amenities preserves the area's natural charm.. Amenities can change — contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.
Nearby swimming holes
Map & location
Culture & history
The Merrimack River has been a vital part of Concord's history, supporting trade and transportation in the 19th century and now serving as a recreational hub.
Conservation
Follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, and refrain from using soaps or chemicals in the water to maintain its purity.