Between our amazing beaches and beautiful inland lakes, there is no shortage of places to swim during the summer. Some of our favorite spots are waterfalls in Maine with swimming holes – the little, unexpected places to jump in after a sweaty hike or the perfect picnic. There’s certainly nothing better than a day spent at a swimming hole fed by a gorgeous waterfall.

While I love all of the little waterfall swimming holes in Maine, there’s something a bit more exciting about the ones that come with a built-in slide, rocks, or jumping platform. Here are just a few examples of some of the best in the state.

1. Gulf Hagas, Piscataquis County
Gulf Hagas, Northeast Piscataquis, ME 04414, USA
Katahdin Iron Works State Historic Site, Ki Rd, Brownville, ME 04414, USA
thomascook / Flickr
Located in Katahdin Iron Works State Park in central Maine, Gulf Hagas is known as the "Grand Canyon of Maine." After hiking the 8.6-mile loop, you can jump in to cool off at the base of some of the falls. There's nothing better than a waterfall you can swim in after a big hike! The water is fed by the multiple falls that run throughout the area, which only adds to the incredible beauty of the area. Read more about Gulf Hagas.
2. The Cataracts, Oxford County
The Cataracts, North Oxford, ME 04261, USA
The B's / Flickr
To fully appreciate the water flow at The Cataracts, a visit in spring is best. The individual falls leading to the various pools are collectively about 100' in height. Enjoy swimming, splashing, and sliding around the rocks here. Learn more about The Cataracts.
3. Rattlesnake Pool, Oxford County
Blueberry Mountain, Stoneham, ME 04217, USA
logicalrealist / Flickr
We hate playing favorites, but in this case, we must. This is the best swimming hole in Maine! Possibly because it requires a bit of a small trek to get here. This just might be the most magical of all the swimming holes on this list. The water is completely clear and taking a dip almost feels tropical. As long as you can ignore the absolutely frigid temps that come with it. The pool is fed by Rattlesnake Brook and a mossy slide leads to it. The pool is actually on privately owned land, but the public is permitted to access it via a fairly easy hike very near Blueberry Mountain. Take the Stone House Trail in Evans Notch and veer off to hit the pool. Check out more about Rattlesnake Pool.
4. Coos Canyon, Oxford County
Coos Canyon, Byron, ME 04275, USA
georgikeith / Flickr
This swimming hole is easily accessed by simply pulling off Route 17 Scenic Highway. The swimming area is a deep area within the Swift River and is nestled between two fairly steep sections of rock. It can sometimes be slippery to access, so exercise extreme caution when heading in. Then, once you're in, soak up the sun! Find out more about Coos Canyon.
5. Step Falls Pools, Newry
Step Falls Preserve Mahoosuc Land Trust, 1657 Bear River Rd, Newry, ME 04261, USA
The B's / Flickr
The fact that this isn't a proper swimming hole in the way you might imagine doesn't really matter. What matters is that the falls make a beautiful natural slide that will give you a fun ride until you hit the bottom and begin running up again for your next! Read more about Step Falls.

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6. Frenchman’s Hole, Bethel
Frenchman’s Hole, Sunday River Rd, Newry, ME 04261, USA
sam davis / Google
Frenchman's Hole is exactly what comes to mind when you imagine waterfall swimming holes in Maine. Its high rocky ledges and deep, crystal water allow for some epic dives and the shallower upper pool is great for kids and taking a dip with your dog. If the water is running heavily, be very careful as it can be quite dangerous. Learn more about Frenchman's Hole.
7. Ledge Falls Pools, Medway
Ledge Falls, Medway, ME 04460, USA
starre / Flickr
These falls are actually primarily swimming holes made more fun by the presence of rock slides. Located on the west side of Baxter State Park, you can see the area directly from the main road in the park. Bring flotation devices to make the slides even more fun! Check out more about Ledge Falls Pools.
8. Houston Brook Falls Pools, Bingham
Houston Brook Falls, Bingham, ME 04920, USA
Andrew King / Flickr
This area boasts many pools along the network of Houston Brook Falls. You'll find the falls near Wyman Lake, where Houston Brook empties along the Kennebec River. Find out more about Houston Brook Falls Pools.
9. Smalls Falls, Franklin County
Smalls Falls, West Central Franklin, ME 04970, USA
The B's / Flickr
The swimming holes throughout Smalls Falls are fun for kids as well as adventurous grownups. The lowest pool can be accessed via the parking lot and the rest are just a short scramble up the rocks. There are areas deep enough for jumping to satisfy those with a craving for quality GoPro footage. And, the best part is the falls that feed it! Read more about this Maine waterfall loop that will take you through Smalls Falls.
10. Three Pools, Swift River, Roxbury
Swift River Road, Swift River Rd, Roxbury, ME, USA
The B's / Flickr
Three Pools is a part of the Swift River and is located at the base of a small set of falls. Accessing it means parking along the road and walking towards the river. As you get close, you'll find yourself at the ledge. Once you're there you'll love splashing around. Check out more about Three Pools and other swimming holes in Maine.

Here's a video that highlights the area:

Have you visited any of these waterfalls you can swim in? If so, we’d love to hear any tips and tricks you have for making the most of a trip. And, we’d love to know what your favorite waterfall swimming hole in Maine is! Looking for more swimming options? Check out a few of my favorite secret beaches in Maine.

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Waterfalls and Swimming Holes in Maine

Michelle S. | May 24, 2023

What are the most beautiful hikes in Maine?

The most beautiful hikes in Maine can be found in every corner of the state. Some of the most loved include:

 

There are plenty of incredible hikes in Maine, so plan on getting outside whenever you can. When you do, be sure to tell people where you're going and when you plan on returning. And, of course, always take out what you take in.

What are the best beaches in Maine?

The best beaches in Maine offer not just fun, but the beauty the coast is known for. These are a few to visit next:

  • Laudholm Beach, Wells: Located within the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve, this beautiful beach can be reached by taking the trails within the reserve.
  • Gooch’s Beach, Kennebunkport: Consistently ranked as one of the most gorgeous beaches in the country, a visit to Maine isn't complete without a day at this shore.
  • The beach at Hermit Island, Phippsburg: A more remote beach to visit, this one is especially unique because it allows camping.

 

When the weather warms up in our Northeastern state and it's finally time to return to beach life, you can't go wrong with any of the gorgeous beaches in Maine. There are also many amazing Maine lakes to visit. No matter the season, planning a visit to any body of water in Maine is a great idea.

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