If You Didn't Know About These 10 Swimming Holes In Maine, You've Been Missing Out
By Michelle|Updated on May 30, 2023(Originally published May 24, 2023)
×
Michelle
Author
Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
Living in Maine means quite a few months of cold weather, followed by a few glorious summer months of fun. From hikes to walks to boating and swimming, there are endless ways to get outside and enjoy those warmer days. We love the beach, but that water can be cold on even the hottest summer days. Lakes are great but often filled with locals and tourists who have the same idea. That’s why we love the best swimming holes in Maine. They’re often visited only by locals who live nearby, which means less traffic and noise. And, they’re certainly a ton of fun! Pack a picnic, grab your bathing suit, and enjoy a day in these cool swimming holes in Maine. The best part is that they’re great throughout the year, visit when it’s chilly and enjoy a completely different experience by soaking up just the views.
1. Frenchman’s Hole, Bethel
Frenchman’s Hole, Sunday River Rd, Newry, ME 04261, USA
Imagine summer days in Maine and you'll likely conjure images of this spot! You'll find high rocky ledges perfect for cannonballs into the deep, clear water below. There's also a shallower pool at the top which is great for littler kids. Always be careful here as it's often slippery.
One of the best Maine swimming holes, Frenchmen’s Hole is a crystal clear option for those hot, sticky, summer days.
You won't find just one swimming hole here, but many! The best part is landing in them by sliding on the rocks surrounding them. Located on the west side of Baxter State Park, you can see the area directly from the main road in the park. To up your relaxation, bring floats to spend your time idly remembering why you love Maine so much.
There are so many great Maine swimming holes that it can be hard to narrow it down to just one. Grab a list and rotate through so you can enjoy them all through the long summer months.
If you like your swimming holes to come with minimal effort, this is the one for you! You can access it by pulling off of the Route 17 Scenic Highway. The swimming area, within the Swift River, is fairly deep and located between two steep sections of rock. Expect things to be slippery, so always be careful near the edge.
Swimming holes in Oxford County are a special sort of fun and there’s plenty of them to choose from!
While optimal water flow is in the spring, you should plan on visiting this spot any time you want to cool down. The falls leading to the multiple pools below are about 100 feet high, making it fun to splash around in the parts that hit the water.
Easily one of the best swimming holes in Maine, an easy hike will bring you to the base of these spectacular falls.
Head to Wyman Lake where Houston Brook empties along the Kennebec River to access this swimming spot. There are lots of pools all along the brook for multiple types of fun.
Are the Houston Brook Falls Pools in Maine frequently referred to as some of the best swimming holes in Maine? Absolutely, and you should see why for yourself!
While not a traditional swimming hole, we love this one for its fun natural slide. The rocks here are slippery making them a great ride for people who want a little more adventure in their cool-off endeavors. Land at the bottom and head to the top to do it all again.
The natural waterslide at Step Falls Pools makes it a top choice out of all o these swimming holes in Maine.
7. Smalls Falls, Franklin County
Smalls Falls, West Central Franklin, ME 04970, USA
This is a great place to visit if you have a mix of kids and grownups. There are areas deep enough for jumping from high above, but enough shallow areas to keep things calm. Access the lowest pool via the parking lot and the rest are just a short scramble up the rocks.
We love this accessible Maine swimming hole, and we think you and the whole family will, too.
8. Gulf Hagas, Piscataquis County
Gulf Hagas Brook, Northeast Piscataquis, ME 04414, USA
You'll need to be a bit ambitious to reach this cool-off spot. Gulf Hagas, known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," is located within Katahdin Iron Works State Park. Hike the 8.6-mile loop and then jump into the base of the falls for the ultimate way to beat the heat. The water is fed by the waterfalls running throughout the area, making this a spot to visit if you love Maine's views as well.
Definitely high up on our list of Maine swimming holes, it’s also great when you want a great waterfall hike in Maine.
This one requires a hike, but the effort is worth it. As long as you can ignore the frigid temps, that is! The pool is fed by Rattlesnake Brook, which you can reach by taking the Stone House Trail in Evans Notch before veering off for the pool.
Luckily an easy hike to this Maine swimming hole is worth it. And you can cool off if you work up a sweat!
10. Three Pools, Swift River, Roxbury
Swift River Road, Swift River Rd, Roxbury, ME, USA
Another swimming area that's part of the Swift River, Three Pools is located at the base of a small set of falls. To get there, parking along the road and walk towards the river. When you get close, you'll find yourself at the ledge where you can get in and enjoy!
Waterfalls and swimming holes in Maine; does summer get any better than this? We think not!
Have you visited any swimming holes in Maine? What did you think? Most importantly, if you have any tips and tricks for a great visit let us know in the comments.
One of our absolute favorite swimming holes in Maine is this one in Oxford County. It’s part of a larger gorge and features a hidden waterfall and lots of secret places to explore.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
More to Explore
Best Swimming Holes In Maine
Michelle S. |June 03, 2022
What are the best beaches in Maine?
The best beaches in Maine can be found along the entire coast of the state. Some of the most popular include:
Old Orchard Beach, York County: Perhaps one of the best-known beaches in the state, this beach offers seven miles of white sandy beaches and plenty of fun at the pier.
Ocean Park, York County: Another southern beach, this is a sandy beauty sitting in a quiet little hamlet of a town.
Drake’s Island Beach, Wells: This gorgeous beach offers 2,800 feet of white sand. It's perfect for a quiet Maine day.
You can camp on the beach in Maine at both lakes and the coast. One particularly great place to explore is Hermit Island, located right Small Point peninsula at the southern end of Phippsburg. Camping spots can be reserved directly on the water and those that are further inland have incredible views. While not on the beach, Sandy Pines Campground in Kennebunkport is located in close proximity. There are plenty of other places to camp on the beach in Maine, so be sure to make plans for your next overnight trip.
