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Winter sports enthusiasts may bemoan the warm weather that brings snowmelt to Vermont, but as the snow recedes, the annual melt breathes new life into another spectacular natural phenomenon — waterfalls. While most falls remain active year-round — even sections that freeze can turn into stunningly abstract ice sculptures — spring into early summer is when the winter run-off ups the ante. Vermont is home to dozens of waterfalls, a natural effect of its mountainous landscape, but some stand out for being both accessible and approachable. Warren Falls in Warren, Vermont fits into that category.
Currently owned by the US Forest Service, the falls are open to the public. That wasn’t always the case. Prior to the mid-1990s, Warren Falls was part of a privately owned parcel of land. While the owner posted no-trespassing signs, he didn’t make much of an effort to enforce the ban on foot traffic. That changed when he decided to sell the 79-acre parcel and officially closed off access to the site. The details are onerous, but ultimately a local ski area negotiated a deal that included selling a portion of the land to the US Forest Service. Then the surrounding communities kicked into high gear and, through grassroots fundraising efforts, collected enough money to complete the purchase.
For a while, Warren Falls remained a well-kept secret, frequented by locals who knew the enchanting landscape was just a stone’s throw from one of Vermont’s most well-traveled byways, but out of sight to anyone who didn’t know it was there. The dawn of social media in the early-2000s changed that as visitors, mesmerized by the magical setting, began to share photos. And the rest, as they say, is history.
A not-so-secret swimming hole
Warren Falls may no longer be a secret hideaway, but it’s still a gorgeous — and swimmable — landscape where water flows over and pools in natural rock basins to create the ultimate summer swimming hole. Located just off Route 100 about a mile and a half south of Warren, Vermont — a picture-perfect New England village — Warren Falls comprises three tiers of waterfalls that cascade into natural basins formed by the force of the water.
The calmer pools are perfect for dipping on a hot summer day, but danger lurks. The siren song of the waterfalls lure daredevils to jump from ledges into pools that can be up to 20-feet-deep. It may look exciting, but it’s a dangerous endeavor. In August 2024, a 35-year-old New Jersey man fell to his death while exploring the falls. Heavy rains the previous day had caused the river to swell and water was running high. Proceed with caution and a healthy respect for the powerful forces of nature that combine to create the stunning setting. You may also want to read up on the best way to keep your family safe while visiting waterfalls during monsoon season.
Be sure to bring along a few essentials to ensure a fun and pleasant experience. Bug spray, snacks, water, and a camera are no-brainers, but consider packing a pair of water shoes, too. They may not be the most stylish accessory, but they make walking across slick rock surfaces easier. As tempting as it may be to jump right in, take time to scope out the area before taking the plunge. And think twice before memorializing your visit with a rock cairn. The “Kilroy Was-Here”-esque piles of stone diminish the authenticity of the natural landscape.
Things to know before you go
