The 5 Prettiest Vermont Waterfalls

It’s no secret that Vermont boasts a gorgeous, biodiverse landscape. Thus, throughout summer and autumn, hundreds of thousands of nature enthusiasts flock into the Upper Valley to explore the region’s dense forestry in search of heart-stopping mountain overlooks, rolling countrysides, hidden covered bridges, and, of course, quintessential Vermont waterfalls. While it won’t be easy to pry yourself from Jasper Murdock’s Alehouse, Dartmouth College’s breathtaking campus, and nearby King Arthur Flour, we highly recommend embarking on a short journey to a couple of often overlooked Vermont waterfalls.

5 Vermont Waterfalls: A Self-Guided Journey to Serenity

Many of these picturesque, freefalling creeks, brooks, and rivers lie in Windsor County, as well as neighboring Orange and Rutland. In fact, the five prettiest Vermont waterfalls, according to our team of self-proclaimed experts, are within an hour of The Norwich Inn—established in 1797. Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather, bring a waterproof camera, and jot down detailed directions to each site.

Old City Falls, Strafford

The 16-mile drive through the heart of Vermont en route to Strafford’s Old City Falls is as peaceful and scenic as it gets. After enjoying a light picnic in the spacious pavilion area, hike down the short, steep path to the creek’s edge. While it’s not well marked, the creekside trail does lead to this dual waterfall. The top fall disappears behind a stack of rocks and eventually spills back into the creek.

Moss Glen Falls, Granville

The state boasts not one but two “Moss Glen Falls.” Today, we’ll only touch on the Granville fall, which, incidentally, remains one of the most oft-photographed natural sites in the state. Moss Glen is approximately an hour’s drive from The Norwich Inn, but this 35-foot marvel is well worth the trip. Adventurous types can get close enough to touch the rushing water as it spills below.

Thundering Brook Falls, Killington

Thundering Brook Falls rests along the Appalachian Trail, a 2,200-mile network that spans from Maine down to North Georgia. Pictures don’t do Thundering Brook justice, as it’s hard to decipher the sheer magnitude of this slippery, 125-foot-tall waterfall via photograph. The easy, wheelchair-friendly boardwalk to the main plunge is a nice perk that you won’t find at many neighboring Vermont waterfalls.

Buttermilk Falls, Ludlow

During the summer months, thrillseekers flock to Buttermilk Falls to bathe in the shallow pools near the upper and middle falls. These classic swimming holes are what summertime dreams are made of, especially for those with a penchant for adventure. While the three midsized falls aren’t jaw-droppingly beautiful, the playful ambiance is unbeatable. 

Glen Falls, Fairlee

Fairlee’s Glen Falls is a short, 20-minute drive from the heart of Norwich. This 25-foot plunge remains an Upper Valley hidden gem. Even many locals don’t know if its existence. The short journey to the main plunge is only about half a mile upstream from the trailhead, and it features several picturesque cascades along the way.

Historic Hotels in Norwich, VT

After a full day of hiking near the very best waterfalls in Vermont, return to The Norwich Inn for a balanced, refreshing pint of Whistling Pig Red Ale and pan-seared Faroe Island salmon. As one of the oldest boutique hotels in Vermont, we offer an elegant, historic, and undeniably romantic alternative to a classic lodging experience. Our on-site brewery pairs perfectly with our sumptuous dining experience. And each of our guest rooms is a visual delight, especially for those with a special place in their heart for 19th-century decor. Please give us a call today at 802-649-1143 to book a long-overdue escape into the breathtaking Upper Valley, New England’s last remaining hidden gem.