Imagine a place where water dances over rocks like nature’s own ballet, and you’ve got Vermont’s waterfalls.
These liquid marvels are so stunning, you’ll wonder if you’ve stumbled into a screensaver.
Let’s dive into the Green Mountain State’s most spectacular cascades!
1. Moss Glen Falls (Stowe)
If Mother Nature decided to create the ultimate screensaver, Moss Glen Falls would be it.
This 125-foot cascade in Stowe is like the supermodel of waterfalls – tall, elegant, and impossibly photogenic.
The water gracefully tumbles down a series of rocky steps, creating a mesmerizing display that’ll have you questioning if you’ve accidentally wandered onto a movie set.
As you approach, the sound of rushing water grows louder, building anticipation like the world’s most refreshing drumroll.
When you finally catch sight of the falls, it’s like nature’s own mic drop moment.
The surrounding moss-covered rocks add a touch of verdant magic, making you half-expect to see woodland fairies flitting about.
Pro tip: Bring a waterproof camera, or better yet, a waterproof you.
The mist from the falls can turn an enthusiastic photographer into an impromptu participant in a wet t-shirt contest faster than you can say “cheese.”
2. Bingham Falls (Stowe)
Bingham Falls is the kind of place that makes you want to cancel your plans and become a full-time waterfall enthusiast.
This 40-foot cascade near Stowe Mountain Resort is like nature’s own thrill ride, minus the long lines and overpriced snacks.
The falls plunge into a deep, emerald pool that’s so inviting, you’ll be tempted to take a dip.
But fair warning: unless you’re part polar bear, you might find the water temperature a tad… invigorating.
It’s the kind of cold that makes you question your life choices and possibly your ancestry.
The surrounding gorge, with its smooth, water-carved walls, looks like it was designed by a geological artist with a flair for the dramatic.
It’s the perfect backdrop for your “I’m one with nature” selfie, even if you’re secretly dreaming about the hot shower waiting for you back at the hotel.
3. Buttermilk Falls (Ludlow)
Don’t let the name fool you – Buttermilk Falls is anything but smooth and creamy.
This three-tiered waterfall in Ludlow is more like nature’s own obstacle course, with water tumbling over rocks and ledges like it’s training for the Waterfall Olympics.
The falls create a series of inviting pools that are perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot summer day.
Just remember: “refreshing” is Vermont-speak for “cold enough to make you question your decision-making skills.”
But hey, who needs feeling in their toes anyway?
The area around Buttermilk Falls is a popular spot for picnicking, so pack a lunch and make a day of it.
Just be prepared for some jealous looks from other visitors when you pull out your gourmet spread.
Nothing says “I’m adulting like a boss” quite like noshing on brie and grapes while perched on a rock next to a waterfall.
4. Lye Brook Falls (Manchester)
Lye Brook Falls is the introvert of Vermont waterfalls – a bit shy and tucked away, but absolutely worth getting to know.
This 125-foot beauty near Manchester requires a 2.3-mile hike to reach, which is nature’s way of saying, “If you want to see me, you’ve got to work for it.”
The trail to the falls is like a greatest hits album of Vermont scenery – lush forests, babbling brooks, and enough fresh air to make you wonder why you ever complained about that “new car smell.”
By the time you reach the falls, you’ll feel like you’ve earned a PhD in Hiking Studies.
The waterfall itself is a thin, delicate stream that cascades down a rocky cliff face.
It’s like watching nature’s own interpretive dance performance, minus the confusing costumes and avant-garde music.
The view from the base of the falls is spectacular, but fair warning: the rocks can be slippery, so channel your inner mountain goat and tread carefully.
5. Texas Falls (Hancock)
Texas Falls might make you wonder if you’ve accidentally teleported to the Lone Star State, but fear not – you’re still in good ol’ Vermont.
This waterfall in the Green Mountain National Forest is proof that sometimes the best things come in small packages.
The falls cascade through a narrow gorge, creating a series of small pools and rapids that look like nature’s own water park.
It’s the kind of place that makes you want to grab an inner tube and go for a ride – until you remember that you value your life and limbs.
A short, easy trail loops around the falls, offering views from different angles.
It’s like a 360-degree tour of awesomeness, minus the annoying tour guide and overpriced gift shop.
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And the best part?
You can enjoy all this natural beauty without having to deal with Texas-sized mosquitoes or humidity.
6. Warren Falls (Warren)
Warren Falls is the party animal of Vermont waterfalls.
This series of cascades and pools on the Mad River is a popular swimming hole that attracts crowds on hot summer days.
It’s like nature’s own water park, minus the overpriced tickets and questionable hygiene practices.
The falls tumble into deep, emerald pools that are perfect for cliff jumping – if you’re the type who enjoys a good adrenaline rush with a side of potential hospital visit.
For the rest of us, there’s always the option of easing in slowly while pretending the water isn’t cold enough to make a polar bear shiver.
The smooth, water-carved rocks surrounding the falls are nature’s own lounge chairs.
Just be prepared for a bit of a “massage” as you settle in – those rocks have a way of finding every pressure point you didn’t know you had.
7. Bartlett Falls (Bristol)
Bartlett Falls, also known as Bristol Falls, is like the mullet of waterfalls – business in the front, party in the back.
From the road, you see a picturesque cascade.
But venture down to the base, and you’ll discover a hidden swimming hole complete with a cave behind the falls.
This 15-foot waterfall on the New Haven River is a local favorite, and it’s easy to see why.
The plunge pool at the base of the falls is deep enough for jumping (always check water levels first, unless you fancy a game of “Guess Which Rock I’ll Hit”), and the cave behind the falls adds an element of adventure.
Swimming behind a waterfall is one of those bucket-list experiences that makes you feel like you’re in a shampoo commercial or a tropical vacation ad.
Just be prepared for the reality check when you emerge looking less like a graceful mermaid and more like a drowned rat.
8. Hamilton Falls (Jamaica)
Hamilton Falls in Jamaica State Park is the kind of place that makes you say, “Wait, we have places like this in Vermont?”
This 125-foot cascade tumbles down a series of steep rock faces, creating a spectacle that’s part waterfall, part natural water slide.
The hike to the falls is moderately challenging, which is nature’s way of saying, “You need to earn this view, couch potato.”
But trust me, the payoff is worth every huffing, puffing step.
Just remember to bring water, snacks, and maybe a personal cheerleader for motivation.
While swimming is prohibited at the base of the falls (unless you fancy a game of “Human Pinball”), there are several lovely pools downstream perfect for a refreshing dip.
And by “refreshing,” I mean “cold enough to make you question your life choices and possibly your sanity.”
9. Thundering Brook Falls (Killington)
With a name like Thundering Brook Falls, you’d expect this cascade to be loud enough to wake the dead.
In reality, it’s more of a gentle roar – like a lion with a sore throat.
But what it lacks in volume, it makes up for in beauty.
This 140-foot waterfall near Killington is easily accessible via a short boardwalk trail, making it perfect for those who prefer nature with a side of convenience.
It’s like the drive-thru of waterfalls – all the beauty with minimal effort.
The falls cascade down a series of rocky ledges, creating a picturesque scene that’s begging to be your next social media profile picture.
Just be prepared for some serious photo envy from your followers.
You might want to caption it with “Just another day in paradise” to really drive home the point.
10. Big Falls (Troy)
Last but certainly not least, we have Big Falls in Troy.
And let me tell you, it lives up to its name.
This waterfall on the Missisquoi River is the largest undammed waterfall in Vermont, dropping nearly 40 feet in a series of cascades that’ll make your jaw drop faster than the water itself.
The falls are surrounded by steep, rocky cliffs that make you feel like you’ve stumbled into a miniature version of the Grand Canyon – if the Grand Canyon had a really awesome water feature, that is.
The gorge is so impressive, you half expect to see a bald eagle soaring overhead, carrying an American flag in its talons.
While swimming is prohibited, the views alone are worth the trip.
It’s the perfect spot for a picnic, some nature photography, or just sitting and contemplating the meaning of life – or at least, the meaning of “big” in Big Falls.
There you have it, folks – ten of Vermont’s most spectacular waterfalls.
So grab your hiking boots, pack a picnic, and prepare to be amazed.
Just remember: photos rarely do these beauties justice, so you’ll just have to see them for yourself.
Happy chasing!