The Power Station

Tucked along the banks of East Creek near the small Vermont communities of Rutland and Chittenden, The Power Station is one of those quietly beloved spots that locals have been slipping away to for generations. Its name tells the story: this informal swimming hole sits adjacent to the historic Glen Station, a former power generation plant whose weathered industrial bones now lend a surprisingly poetic backdrop to one of Vermont's most characterful creek swims. There are no signs pointing you here, no lifeguards on duty, and no manicured amenities — just cold, clear water, the hum of the surrounding forest, and the kind of unhurried afternoon that reminds you why you came to Vermont in the first place.

The Setting and Landscape

East Creek moves through this stretch of central Vermont with a personality all its own. The water runs cool and clean, shaded by a canopy of maples, birches, and hemlocks that press in close on either bank. The presence of the historic power station gives the site a layered, almost cinematic atmosphere — mossy stonework and weathered industrial structure standing in quiet contrast to the lush greenery surrounding it. In summer, the light filters through the leaves in shifting golden patches across the water's surface. Come autumn, the hillsides ignite in crimson and amber, and the creek reflects a canvas that photographers and leaf-peepers will find irresistible. Even spring has its appeal here: snowmelt feeds East Creek with extra energy, sending livelier currents through the channel that adventurous visitors will appreciate.

What Swimming Is Like

East Creek at The Power Station offers a natural mix of shallow wading areas and deeper swimming pockets, making it accessible for a range of comfort levels. The creek bottom is rocky, as is typical of Vermont waterways, so water shoes or sturdy sandals are a smart choice. The water stays refreshingly cold even in the height of summer — that signature Vermont mountain-creek chill that makes the first plunge gasp-worthy and the second utterly addictive. Clarity is a hallmark of this type of creek environment, and on a calm day you can watch the streambed shift beneath you in rippling light. Wildlife sightings are common along the banks: watch for herons picking their way through the shallows or the dart of a kingfisher overhead. This is a place that rewards those who slow down and pay attention.

Practical

Directions to The Power Station Swimming Hole in Vermont To reach The Power Station swimming hole, follow these clear and detailed directions: Starting Point: Begin at the intersection of Route 4 (RT 4) and Route 7 (RT 7) in Rutland, Vermont. Head North: Travel north on Route 7 (RT 7) toward Chittenden. Traffic Light at Post Road: Continue on RT 7 until you reach the last traffic light in Rutland at Post Road. This intersection is a key landmark. Look for Glen Station: From the Post Road traffic light, you will see the Central Vermont Public Service’s Glen Station (a power generation plant) on your left, approximately one-tenth of a mile ahead. Turn Left into Parking Area: After passing the Post Road traffic light, turn left into the parking area located on the south side of the power station. This parking area is accessible and provides convenient access to the swimming hole. Helpful Notes: The parking area is unpaved but spacious enough for visitors. From the parking area, follow any visible trails or paths that lead toward the water. The swimming hole is located near the power station, so it should be easy to find once you park. Enjoy your visit to The Power Station swimming hole! Make sure to respect the natural surroundings and follow any posted signs or guidelines.

The Power Station sits within easy reach of both Rutland and Chittenden, Vermont — making it a natural add-on to a broader exploration of central Vermont's Green Mountain region. Rutland, Vermont's second-largest city, offers a full range of restaurants, lodging, and services before or after your visit. Chittenden, a quieter mountain town to the north, provides access to the Chittenden Reservoir and surrounding trails. Summer weekends draw the most visitors, so an early-morning or weekday arrival will reward you with the creek nearly to yourself.

Access is via an unpaved parking area on the south side of the Glen Station power plant. This is an unofficial site with no known fee structure or facilities like restrooms or changing areas. Always respect private property boundaries and posted signage.

Named after the nearby Glen Station power plant, the swimming hole reflects Vermont’s balance of natural beauty and historical industrial significance.

Follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the ecosystem. Avoid littering, respect wildlife habitats, and stay on established paths.