Hidden Treasures of the White Mountains

Sawyer Rock | Bartlett

It may be hard to find this awesome swimming hole on the Saco River if you don’t know what you’re looking for. Traveling west on Route 302 through Crawford Notch, you will pass the Sawyer Pond Trail sign on your left. The dirt pull-off and parking area will be just up the road on the right-hand side, and a trail through the woods will lead you to Sawyer Rock and a multitude of other rocks to sunbathe on as well as areas to dip in your toes, or do a little wading or swimming.

Bridal Veil Falls | Franconia

Bridal Veil Falls | Franconia

Just off Route 116 is the Coppermine Trailhead, which not only brings you to a lovely 2.5-mile hike, but also to the stunning and aptly named Bridal Veil Falls.

This 35-foot waterfall It is a great spot to relax, sunbathe, or have a picnic, and if you are feeling adventurous, you can spend the night in the nearby Coppermine Shelter. Keep your eyes out for the plaque on the giant boulder near the brook which commemorates when actress Bette Davis became lost near the falls and was rescued by a local innkeeper.

The Big Eddy | Bath

This gem on Route 112 in Bath offers a cascading waterfall and a refreshing swimming hole, both in the shadow of the historic Swiftwater Covered Bridge. Hang out on the rocks by the bridge to do some sunbathing and summer reflecting, or drive over the bridge, to the designated parking lot, and take a swim in the Ammonoosuc River.

The Eddy | Thornton

Along the Mad River this swimming hole is one of the White Mountain National Forest Day-Use areas and is a great place to cool off in the summer or relax with a picnic lunch. It is near several popular hiking trails, and is also on the way to many outdoor recreation opportunities at the Waterville Valley Adventure Center.

The Eddy Thornton