3 Magical Swimming Spots Near Tanglebloom Cabin (Including a Hidden-in-Plain-Sight Gem)
If you’ve ever felt the pull of cold, clear water on a hot summer day, you already understand the magic of wild swimming. Here in southern Vermont, the rivers are clean, the woods are quiet, and the best swimming spots feel like they were made just for you.
Whether you’re staying at Tanglebloom Cabin or just passing through the area, here are three beautiful places to cool off nearby—including one under-the-radar gem that’s easy to love.
photo Jess Amich
1. Rock River: Wild, Cold, and Absolutely Worth It
The Rock River is a local treasure known for its clear water, mossy boulders, and forest-framed pools. Just 10 minutes from Tanglebloom Cabin, this spot is a summer classic for a reason.
What makes it special:
Deep, swimmable pools for full-body plunges
A mellow current and soft, shaded edges for lounging
That unmistakable “wild swimming” feeling that stays with you
It’s ideal for early morning solitude or a late afternoon refresh, especially on hot summer days when the water feels like the best kind of shock to your system.
💡 Tip: Bring a towel, sturdy water shoes, and a sense of adventure - a bit of scrambling and/or stream walking is required
2. West River: Big Views and Easy Access
If you want something scenic and easy to reach, the West River is just the ticket. A favorite for locals and visitors alike, this wide stretch of river just off Route 30 offers a mix of smooth ledges, rocky beaches, slow-moving water, and plenty of space to spread out. The Dummerston Covered Bridge is one of our favorite spots for both beauty and accessibility.
Why you'll love it:
Close to trailheads and parking
Perfect for picnics and longer river hangs
Gentle enough for lounging, floating, and toe-dipping
Pair it with a walk along the West River Trail, or simply bring a book and settle in for an afternoon under the trees.
3. Jelly Mill Falls at Stickney Brook: A Hidden-in-Plain-Sight Gem
Just a short drive from Brattleboro, Stickney Brook’s Jelly Mill Falls is a peaceful little pocket of beauty that often flies under the radar. With tiered cascades, shallow pools, and wide flat rocks, it’s an ideal spot for wading, sunning, and taking in the soft roar of water over stone.
Why it’s worth the stop:
Easy access from the roadside
Waterfalls + swimming = instant relaxation
Quiet enough to feel like a discovery, without being truly remote
It’s not a place for deep diving, but it’s perfect for barefoot wandering, rock-hopping, and cooling off in the flow.
Planning Your Wild Swimming Adventure
Here’s what we recommend bringing:
A quick-dry towel
Water shoes or sturdy sandals with grip
A sunhat and natural bug spray
An iced tea or snack from the Brattleboro Farmers’ Market
A swimsuit
Optional: a chair for rocky shores or longer hangs
Whether you’re dipping in for five minutes or staying for hours, wild swimming has a way of softening everything—your shoulders, your mind, your pace.
Stay Where the Water Is Close and the Pace Is Slow
If you're dreaming of a Vermont summer getaway filled with wild swimming, wildflowers, and time to breathe, Tanglebloom Cabin is a special place to land.
✨ Check availability here to plan your off-grid glamping retreat—and let the river do the rest.
🗺️ P.S. Guests receive a printed guide upon arrival with even more local swimming holes and lesser-known river spots for days when you want to wander deeper.
Stay Safe While Swimming
It’s important to keep safety in mind when wild swimming. Never swim within 48 hours of a heavy rainstorm or if waters appear flooded, cloudy, or brown. Water should be “calm and clear” before entering. Beware of slippery rocks and uneven footing. Respect posted signs and private property, and always park well off the traveled portion of the road. Swim at your own risk — the information shared here is intended for entertainment purposes only and does not guarantee safety or accessibility. For more safety information, check out the Vermont Department of Health’s guide to Water Safety in Vermont.
