Maine’s Emerald Swimming Hole
Rattlesnake Flume and Pool sits tucked into the forest near Blueberry Mountain in the White Mountain National Forest, just outside the Evans Notch area of western Maine. A mountain stream slides down a moss-covered granite flume and empties into a pool of water so clear and green that it looks tropical. The color is real. Minerals in the granite and the depth of the water combine to create an emerald tint that photographs beautifully and stops hikers in their tracks the first time they see it.
The pool is small, holding maybe a handful of swimmers at once. The flume above it is a natural water slide, about 10 feet of smooth, sloped rock that funnels the stream down into the pool. On a hot summer day, this is one of the most popular swimming holes in western Maine, and for good reason. The setting, the color of the water, and the thrill of the natural slide make it feel like a hidden treasure, even though it is well known.
The Hike
The most common approach is from the Stone House Trail, accessed from Shell Pond Road off Route 113 near the Stoneham-Stow border. The trailhead has a small gravel parking area with an information kiosk. The trail is about one mile each way (2.1 miles round trip) and is considered easy, with roughly 219 feet of elevation gain over gentle, rolling terrain.
The path follows an old woods road through mixed hardwood and softwood forest, crossing a few small streams on rocks and log bridges. The footing is mostly packed earth with some roots and rocks. Sneakers will work in dry conditions, though trail shoes provide better grip on the mossy rocks near the pool.
A spur trail branches off the Stone House Trail and leads down to the flume and pool. The descent to the water is short but steep, with some rocky scrambling in the last few yards. Take your time on the approach, especially when wet.
Visit on a weekday if possible. The pool is small, and on summer weekends it can feel crowded with 10 or more people. A Tuesday or Wednesday in July will give you the pool to yourself for long stretches. The early morning is also quiet, though the water is coldest then.
The Flume and Pool
The flume is a channel carved into granite by centuries of flowing water. The rock is smooth and polished, angled at roughly 30 degrees, and covered in a thin film of water that acts as a natural lubricant. You sit at the top and slide down into the pool below. The slide is about 10 feet long and deposits you into water that ranges from 8 to 12 feet deep at its center.
The pool itself is roughly 20 feet across, hemmed in by large boulders and overhanging trees. The water is clear to the bottom, with a blue-green tint that deepens toward the center. Rock ledges around the edges provide spots for sitting, sunning, and jumping in. Some ledges are 6 to 8 feet above the water, popular for cliff jumping.
The water is cold. This is a mountain stream in Maine, and even in August the temperature is bracing. Most people ease in gradually or take the plunge off the flume. After the initial shock, the cold becomes invigorating, and the crystal clarity of the water makes the discomfort worthwhile.
The water temperature is very cold year-round, cold enough to cause shock if you are not prepared. Enter gradually if you are not accustomed to cold water swimming. The rocks around the pool and flume are extremely slippery when wet. Move carefully and wear shoes with grip. The flume slide should only be attempted feet-first.
The Setting
The forest around Rattlesnake Pool is dense and green, with moss-covered boulders and ferns lining the stream banks. The canopy overhead filters the sunlight into dappled patches on the water. It has the feel of a place that has not changed much in a very long time.
Blueberry Mountain, which rises above the pool, is a worthwhile side trip if you have the energy after your swim. The trail continues from the pool area to the summit, where open ledges provide views across the Evans Notch area and into New Hampshire. The full loop over Blueberry Mountain and back is about 4.5 miles.
The afternoon sun hits the pool directly from about 1 PM to 4 PM, warming the rocks around the edges and lighting up the emerald color of the water. This is the best window for swimming and photography. By late afternoon, the gorge falls into shadow and the temperature drops quickly.
Practical Notes
There are no facilities at the trailhead or the pool. No restrooms, no trash cans, no cell service. Bring everything you need and carry everything out. This is national forest land, and the Leave No Trace principles apply.
Dogs are allowed on the trail and at the pool, on leash. The rocks around the pool can be difficult for dogs, so use judgment.
Parking at the trailhead is limited to perhaps 10 to 12 cars in a gravel pulloff. On hot summer weekends, cars line Shell Pond Road when the lot fills. Arrive early or visit midweek.
When to Go
Spring
Water flow is high from snowmelt, but the water is extremely cold and the trail can be muddy. Not ideal for swimming.
Summer
Warmest water temperatures (still cold). Best swimming conditions. Busiest on weekends. Afternoon sun on the pool.
Fall
Foliage color in the surrounding forest is beautiful. Water too cold for most swimmers. Good for hiking to Blueberry Mountain.
Winter
Route 113 may be closed in winter. Pool partially freezes. Accessible on snowshoes from plowed roads.
Rattlesnake Pool Visit
- Swimsuit and towel
- Water shoes (slippery rocks and cold water)
- Snacks and water (no services at the trailhead)
- Camera (the emerald water is photogenic)
- Trash bag (pack out everything)
- Dry clothes for the hike back
- Sunscreen (exposed rocks around the pool)
Getting There
From Fryeburg, take Route 5 north to Route 113 north (Evans Notch Road). Continue on Route 113 to Shell Pond Road on the right (also accessible as Deer Hill Road). The trailhead parking is about a mile down Shell Pond Road. From Portland, the drive takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. An alternate approach from Chatham, New Hampshire via Route 113 and Stone House Road accesses the same trail network from the west side.
FAQ
How deep is Rattlesnake Pool?
The pool ranges from about 8 to 12 feet at its deepest point near the center. The edges are shallower, with rocky ledges for sitting and entering the water gradually.
Is the natural water slide safe?
The flume slide is popular but requires caution. The rock is smooth and slippery. Always slide feet-first and check the pool depth before your first slide. Do not attempt head-first or standing slides.
How long is the hike to Rattlesnake Pool?
The round trip is about 2.1 miles on mostly easy terrain, taking 45 to 60 minutes of walking time. The trail follows old woods roads with gentle grades.
Is Rattlesnake Pool crowded?
On summer weekends, the pool can feel crowded because it is small. Weekday visits and early mornings offer a much quieter experience. The parking lot fills on hot weekends.
Can you bring dogs to Rattlesnake Pool?
Yes, dogs are allowed on leash. The rocky terrain around the pool can be challenging for some dogs, so use judgment. Keep dogs under control near other swimmers.
