Best Swimming Holes in Maine: Cold Ponds, Waterfalls, and Secret Quarries

I've been chasing swimming holes across Maine for the better part of two decades, and I can tell you this much: if you're expecting bathwater temperatures and sandy beaches at every spot, you're in for a shock. Maine's swimming holes are fed by snowmelt, underground springs, and mountain streams that'll take your breath away—literally. But once you get past that initial plunge, there's nothing quite like floating in crystal-clear water surrounded by granite cliffs or swimming beneath a thundering waterfall.

I've collected my fair share of leech bites and stubbed toes on submerged rocks, but I keep coming back. Here's my honest guide to the best swimming holes in Maine, from the Instagram-famous spots to the hidden gems that locals would prefer I not write about (sorry, neighbors).

Famous Spots Worth the Hype

Some swimming holes get famous for good reason. Yes, you'll share them with other people, especially on summer weekends, but they've earned their reputation.

Angel Falls in Township E is Maine's highest waterfall, and the pool at its base is worth the moderate hike to reach it. The trail is about a mile and relatively easy, winding through a beautiful forest before opening up to this spectacular 90-foot cascade. The swimming hole itself isn't huge—maybe 20 feet across—but the water is incredibly clear and stays cold even in August (expect temperatures in the low 60s). I've been here on a Tuesday morning in late June with the place entirely to myself, and I've also been here on a Saturday in July with twenty other people. My advice? Go early or go late in the season. The black flies in May will eat you alive, but by September, you'll have this place mostly to yourself.

Screw Auger Falls in Grafton Notch State Park is probably the most photographed swimming hole in Maine, and when you see it, you'll understand why. The Bear River has carved smooth channels through the granite, creating natural water slides and several pools perfect for swimming. There are actually multiple pools here at different levels, so even when it's crowded, you can usually find a spot. The main pool is deep enough for jumping from the surrounding rocks—I've seen people launch from about 15 feet up, though I stick to the lower ledges. This is a state park, so there's an entrance fee (bring cash), but the facilities are well-maintained with bathrooms and picnic areas. The water stays in the low 60s most of the summer.

Smalls Falls in Madrid might be my favorite on this list. It's right off Route 4, so it's incredibly accessible—you can practically see it from the parking area. The waterfall cascades down through multiple levels, creating several different pools to explore. The lowest pool is the largest and most popular, but if you're willing to scramble up the rocks a bit, there are smaller pools upstream that are more secluded. I've spent entire afternoons here, moving between pools as the sun shifts. Fair warning: the rocks can be slippery, and I've seen more than one person take a tumble. Wear shoes with good grip, not flip-flops.

Granite Quarries Turned Swimming Holes

Maine's granite quarrying history has left us with some incredible swimming holes, though they come with important caveats. These are deep—sometimes over 100 feet—and the water is shockingly cold because they're spring-fed from the bottom. I'm talking 50-degree water even in August. Every one of these requires a serious risk assessment.

The Freeport quarry behind the Walmart is an open secret. It's technically posted as no trespassing, and I need to be clear about that. The town doesn't maintain it, there are no lifeguards, and people have been injured here. That said, on any summer day you'll find locals cliff jumping from various heights. The water is an otherworldly blue-green color, and it's deep enough that depth isn't the concern—it's the cold that'll get you. I've watched tough guys climb out shivering after just five minutes. If you do decide to go (at your own risk), please don't leave trash. Locals are protective of this spot, and littering is the fastest way to get it permanently fenced off.

The Lincoln quarry is another granite pit that's become a local swimming spot. This one is also on private property with no trespassing signs, though enforcement seems sporadic. The quarry is massive, with sheer granite walls and water that's probably 60-80 feet deep in places. I've been swimming here since I was a teenager, but I also know it's not without risk. There's no easy way out once you're in—you have to be a strong swimmer. And yes, the water is absolutely frigid.

Hallowell quarry is perhaps the most contentious of the bunch. It's well-known, frequently used, and the subject of ongoing debates between swimmers and property owners. Some sections are posted, some aren't, and the situation seems to change yearly. The swimming is fantastic—clear, deep water surrounded by granite—but you need to be aware you might be trespassing. I'm including it here because pretending people don't swim there would be dishonest, but swim at your own risk and respect any posted signs.

Best Clear Spring-Fed Ponds

If you prefer your swimming holes with actual beaches and less risk of hypothermia, Maine's spring-fed ponds are gorgeous alternatives.

Tunk Pond in Cherryfield is one of the clearest bodies of water I've ever swum in. On a calm day, you can see 20-30 feet down to the rocky bottom. It's a bit off the beaten path in Downeast Maine, which means fewer crowds than the Bar Harbor area. There's a small beach area at the public landing, and the water temperature actually gets reasonable by mid-summer—into the high 60s or even low 70s in a hot August. I've encountered leeches here once or twice over the years, usually in the shallow, weedy areas near shore. Stay in the deeper water and you'll likely be fine. The surrounding mountains make for a spectacular backdrop.

Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park is stunning but comes with rules. Swimming is only allowed in designated areas, and frankly, the water is so cold that most people skip the swimming and just do the shore path walk instead. But if you're committed to swimming in one of Maine's most beautiful settings, this is it. The water is incredibly clear, and the view of the Bubbles mountains is iconic. Expect water temperatures in the low 60s at best. There's a parking fee for the national park, and Jordan Pond fills up early on summer days.

Pemaquid Pond is actually several connected ponds, and the public beach is a local favorite. The water is clear and clean, fed by springs and relatively shallow near the beach, which means it actually warms up nicely by July. I've measured temperatures in the mid-70s here in late summer. This is a great option if you're traveling with kids or anyone who isn't interested in the "character-building" experience of 60-degree water. There are also actual facilities here—bathrooms, picnic tables, the works.

Under the Radar

These spots don't show up on most tourist lists, which is exactly why they're worth seeking out.

Coos Canyon in Byron is a hidden gem along the Swift River. The river has carved smooth channels through the bedrock, creating pools and natural slides. It's popular with locals but somehow stays off most visitors' radar. The water moves through here at a good pace, so it's not the place for a leisurely float—it's more about exploring the carved rock formations and finding little pools to sit in. The water is clear enough that you can spot gold flecks in the rocks (yes, people still pan for gold here). Temperatures are typical mountain stream cold—low 60s at best.

Moxie Falls requires a short hike (about a mile), but it's worth it for Maine's highest single-drop waterfall at 90 feet. The pool at the base is impressive, though the current can be strong depending on water levels. I've only actually swum here a handful of times because the conditions need to be right—you want enough water for it to be spectacular, but not so much that it's dangerous. Late summer is usually your best bet. The hike in is easy enough that families with kids can manage it, and even if you don't swim, the waterfall is incredible. This is closer to Bethel than most people realize.

Step Falls in Newry is another local favorite that doesn't get the attention of nearby Screw Auger Falls. It's a series of small cascades creating multiple pools—think natural water park. The hike along the falls is beautiful, and you can spend hours here exploring different pools and cascades. Some are shallow enough for kids, while others are deep enough for actual swimming. The rocks can be slippery (I've fallen more than once), so those water shoes I keep recommending really matter here. The water is cold but not shockingly so—maybe mid-60s in August.

What to Bring

After years of swimming holes adventures, here's what I always pack:

Water shoes are non-negotiable. I don't care how tough you think your feet are—Maine's rivers and quarries are full of sharp rocks, broken granite, and slippery algae-covered stones. I use cheap mesh water shoes that I replace every season. They've saved me from countless injuries.

Tick spray in July is essential. The ticks are bad this year (honestly, they're bad every year, but people keep saying it's worse). If you're hiking to a swimming hole through any kind of vegetation, spray your legs and do a tick check afterward. I've pulled more ticks off myself at swimming holes than anywhere else, probably because I'm distracted and sitting still on rocks in the sun.

A good towel and a waterproof bag for your phone and keys are obvious but worth mentioning. I use a dry bag that I can clip to my swimsuit. I've watched too many phones take the plunge.

Cash for parking lots. Many of the state parks and official swimming areas charge parking fees, and not all of them take cards. I usually keep a $10 bill in my swimming bag just in case.

I'd also add: sunscreen (you'll be there longer than you think), snacks (swimming in cold water makes you hungry), and maybe a book for the rocks between swims. And please, pack out whatever you pack in. These places stay beautiful because people take care of them.

Final Thoughts on Maine Swimming Holes

Look, swimming in Maine is not for everyone. The water is cold, the rocks are sharp, and sometimes there are leeches. But if you can handle those minor inconveniences, you'll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful swimming experiences on the East Coast. I've traveled plenty, and I still maintain that there's something special about a Maine swimming hole on a hot August afternoon.

Just remember: these are wild places, not municipal pools. Check water levels before you go (heavy rain can make rivers dangerous), respect private property signs, and never jump or dive into water unless you know exactly what's under the surface. I've been swimming in these places for years, and I still take every swim seriously.

Whether you're new to Maine or a longtime resident, I hope this guide helps you find your new favorite swimming spot. And if you're still figuring out which part of Maine is right for you, take our quiz to find your perfect Maine town. Now get out there and take the plunge—literally.