Dog River "Jacuzzi" Natural Area

Northfield, Vermont

Dog River

Swimming Hole
Swimming Hole
Swimming Hole
Swimming Hole
Wildlife & Watershed Protection
Wildlife & Watershed Protection
Paddling Access
Paddling Access
Fishing Area
Fishing Area
This natural "jacuzzi" swimming hole is perfect for swimming, fishing, launching a boat, or just enjoying the bench and picnic table overlooking the river.
Dogs allowed on leash
Dogs allowed on leash
Hiking
Hiking
Danger, drowning
Danger, risk of drowning
  • Public access: Yes
  • Activities: swimming, hiking, picnicking, paddling, birding, fishing
  • Caretaker: Town of Berlin
Dog River "Jacuzzi" Natural Area Northfield, Vermont Dog River

Dog River "Jacuzzi" Natural Area

One of Vermont River Conservancy’s flagship projects, we helped the Town of Berlin protect this beloved swimming hole in 1997. The “Jacuzzi,” a large pool below a four-foot bedrock drop, is part of Berlin’s Dog River Natural Area. When not swimming, visitors can enjoy a park bench and picnic table from the natural amphitheater above the Jacuzzi. In early summer when the water is higher, boaters can launch canoes and kayaks and paddle a couple miles downriver to Montpelier’s Dog River Recreation Area on Dog River Road.

The Dog River is one of Vermont’s premier native trout streams attracting anglers and recreationists. Vermont River Conservancy’s work helps protect habitat for fish and wildlife, while also making sure people will always have access to special places like this.

Explore the Spanish-language video featuring this site here.

Conservation Details

  • River: Dog River
  • Acreage: 17.00
  • River frontage (ft): 5,000

Funding Partners

This project made possible thanks to the support and partnership of:

  • New England Grassroots Environment Fund
  • Ben & Jerry’s Foundation
  • Norcross Wildlife Foundation

Directions

Approximately three miles south of Montpelier, Route 12 crosses a bridge over the Dog River. Park just north of the bridge in the parking lot of the Berlin Volunteer Fire Department (2095 VT-12, Northfield, VT 05663). Look for Dog River Park sign. Walk down the bank behind the fire station to access the river.