For decades, forester Fred Hunt cared for 800 acres here, and welcomed people to take a dip in these beautiful pools. When he considered the future of his land, he knew it could someday be a prime spot for developed lots — he didn’t want this to happen to his special slice of Vermont. Instead, Fred Hunt worked with Vermont River Conservancy to make sure people of all ages could always come enjoy this place.
To make this dream a reality, people near and far rallied to the cause. Local residents donated, schools raised funds on Earth Day, and gifts came in from as far away as California and Bermuda, testifying to the widespread love for this spot. Vermont River Conservancy bought these 40-acres in 2002, then added 1-more acre in 2003 to make public access even better.
Thanks to this vision and all chipped-in, today visitors can enjoy a half-mile of the the Black River. Tucked in a shady, deep ravine surrounded by forest, the water is extra cool, even mid-summer. The stream flows through narrow bedrock ravines, broadens out into a deep pool, then narrows again. Each of the three pools is an exceptional swimming and wading area, making it a great place for young and old, whether looking for a place to splash, wade, or full-on swim.
This project made possible thanks to the support and partnership of:
From I-91, get off at Exit 8 and proceed west on Route 131. Turn right on Route 106N. At Felchville (Reading PO), turn left on Tyson Road. Proceed approximately 1.25 miles west on Tyson Road to the property. Look for community of tall pines with few branches on lower trunks. Park at small turnoff on south side of Tyson Road. Trail from Tyson Road takes you to swimming holes.
