Best Swimming Spots
Ever wonder how Waterville Valley got its name? Take a look around during the summertime – you’ll discover a Valley that’s teeming with natural water sources. From mountain brooks to alpine ponds, Waterville Valley has a plethora of natural swimming spots.
Corcoran Pond
Perhaps the most popular swim spot in the valley, Corcoran Pond is a refreshing oasis for waders of all ages. The beach is raked daily, perfect for younger kids who like to play in the sand. Toad Hall Toys sells sandcastle-building accouterments, water guns, and kid-friendly fishing poles. Swim out to the floating dock and have a cannonball competition, or simply lounge out and enjoy the fresh summer air. Mere footsteps from Town Square, Corcoran Pond offers gorgeous mountain views and revitalizing waters with incredible convenience to Town Square shops, restaurants, and activities.
Cascades Falls
You can find numerous swimming spots along Cascades Falls, each unique and breathtakingly beautiful. The falls are located along the rocky gorge of Cascades Brook, an alpine waterway beginning near the summit of Snow's Mountain. The crystal-clear waters are invigorating and mineral-rich. Even on the warmest summer days, the water runs cold, making it a perfect swim spot for those looking to beat the midsummer heat. There are primarily two routes to Cascades Falls. You can hike along Cascades Path, a 3-mile out-and-back trail with an elevation gain of 540 feet. Or, you can shorten the trek by riding up Snow's Mountain Chairlift. From the top of the chairlift, walk 0.8 miles along Upper Snow's X-C Trail. As you approach the first bridge, you will notice the Cascades Path sign to your right.
Smart's Brook
Smart's Brook is a wonderfully refreshing swimming hole nestled in the White Mountain National Forest. This invigorating swimming hole is easily accessed via a quick and easy hike, about 2 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 230 feet. Smart's Brook Trailhead is located along Route 49, a 5-10 minute drive from Town Square. After cooling off, you can continue down Route 49 and go tubing along the Pemi, drive into Plymouth for a bite to eat, or embark on an excursion beyond the valley.
Greeley Ponds
Greeley Ponds is a stunning natural alpine pond tucked back in the Mad River Notch. Greeley Ponds is the headwaters of the Mad River and also an incredible swimming spot, offering gorgeous views of Mount Osceola and a quaint sandy beach. You can access this swimming spot by following Greeley Pond Trail, a 7.4-mile roundtrip hike with an elevation gain of 670 feet.
White Mountain Athletic Club
Looking to simply relax by the pool while the kids run free? The White Mountain Athletic Club is a splash-tastic paradise, with a 1,600 square-foot heated "splash pad" offering a wide variety of water soaking features, a 25-meter pool, family play areas, underwater benches, deck jets, underwater color lighting, a "pool temperature" whirlpool spa overlooking the White Mountains, plus built-in basketball and pool volleyball amenities. Book a stay at one of Waterville’s lodges, condos, or hotels, and you’ll get unlimited access to the White Mountain Athletic Club through the Freedom Pass!
