Hancock Brook
Name of Project: Hancock Brook 
Location: Worcester, VT
River: Hancock Brook
Type of Project: Swimming Hole and Waterfall
Public Access: Yes
Date Completed: 2007
Size: 1.747 Acres
Water Frontage: 960′
Landowner: Town of Worcester; Conservation Easement held by Vermont River Conservancy
Funding Partners: Fields Pond Foundation, Individual Donors
Property Description: Hancock Brook cascades through a narrow valley from the Worcester Range to the North Branch of the Winooski River. This pristine stream is surrounded by northern hardwoods, fir and hemlock. Just a short drive up a small gravel road along the brook is the “Upper Pot”, a favorite local swimming hole and waterfall.
Project Background: Earlier in 2007 VRC, with the help of over 120 donors, completed the conservation of an important parcel in the undeveloped upper corridor of the North Branch. Those seventy acres on the hip of the Worcester range are forever conserved. As a result of the successful conservation of that parcel, VRC was contacted by the owner of a special place on Hancock Brook. The Vermont River Conservancy was able to negotiate an agreement for purchase of the property. It was the wish of the owner that a conservation easement assure that all land along 525 feet of Hancock Brook remain perpetually in a natural condition and be available to the public for swimming and passive enjoyment. In addition, the seller donated the proceeds of the acquisition to an endowment fund for the music program at the Doty Memorial School.
Directions: Take Route 12 (Elm Street) North out of Montpelier. Go through the town of Worcester. Approximately 2 miles north of the village, go left on Hancock Brook Road. Go past the house on the left. The swimming hole is on the left, approximately .4 miles from the beginning of Hancock Brook Road. Park far enough off the road so cars can pass.
