Rattlesnake Pool

The trailhead for Rattlesnake Pool is located in Stow, Maine, on private property known as the Stone House Property. Public access is permitted when visitors adhere to marked trails. Parking is typically available at a designated area near the trailhead, but it's always a good idea to arrive early, especially on busy days, as spots can fill up quickly.

Yes, the trail to Rattlesnake Pool is generally considered easy and is suitable for most hikers, including beginners and families with small children. It features only slight elevation changes. However, if you choose to extend your hike beyond the pool to Blueberry Mountain, the difficulty increases to moderate due to steeper climbs.

The path to Rattlesnake Pool is well-traveled and marked. While initial sections can be level, you should expect some roots, rocks, and occasional muddy patches. Appropriate footwear is recommended to navigate these varied surfaces comfortably.

Before reaching the main attraction, you'll encounter Rattlesnake Flume, a 15-foot deep gorge with a small waterfall and pools, viewable from a footbridge. The highlight is, of course, Rattlesnake Pond itself, known for its clear, emerald green waters and a picturesque 25-foot horsetail waterfall. The surrounding forest provides a tranquil, shaded atmosphere.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, as it's on private property with public access granted, it's crucial to ensure your dog is well-behaved, kept on a leash, and that you clean up after them to maintain respectful access for everyone.

The trail is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preference. Summer is popular for swimming in the refreshing, albeit cold, emerald waters. Fall offers stunning foliage views in the forested environment. Spring and early summer can be lovely but may have more muddy sections.

No, there are no specific permits or fees required to hike to Rattlesnake Pool itself, as public access is graciously permitted on the private Stone House Property. While the trail is near the White Mountains National Forest, this specific route does not typically require a fee or permit for day use.

Yes, the route to Rattlesnake Pool utilizes sections of other trails. You'll find yourself on parts of the Stone House Trail, the White Cairn Trail, and the Shell Pond trail as you navigate the area.

Yes, swimming in Rattlesnake Pool is a popular activity and a major draw. Be prepared, though, as the water is famously cold, often around 40 degrees Fahrenheit even in the summer. It's incredibly refreshing on a hot day, but it's definitely a brisk dip!

Rattlesnake Pool is renowned for its strikingly clear, emerald green or aquamarine waters, fed by a picturesque 25-foot horsetail waterfall. It's nestled in a shady forest, creating a tranquil, almost 'secret, tropical oasis' feel. It's often cited as one of the best swimming holes in Maine due to its visual appeal and refreshing, albeit frigid, waters.

Despite the name, you don't need to worry about encountering timber rattlesnakes. There is a historical absence of timber rattlesnakes in Maine, so the name is more descriptive of the winding flume or perhaps a local legend, rather than a warning about actual snakes.