Huntington Gorge

EXTREME CAUTION: Huntington Gorge on the Huntington River in Richmond is widely recognized as the DEADLIEST SWIMMING HOLE IN VERMONT -- nearly 30 deaths since 1950, including a Vermont State Police Sergeant (Gary Gaboury) who drowned in 1992 during a victim recovery. From US 2 / I-89 Exit 11 in Richmond, follow Main Street / Bridge Street south across the Winooski River, bear left onto Cochran Road, then right onto DUGWAY ROAD and follow the river upstream; Vermont River Conservancy manages the access site with posted warning signs. Park ONLY in legal marked pull-offs along Dugway Road and walk the short informal river path down to the gorge rim. The water LOOKS calm on the surface but has strong underwater currents, rock-carved chutes / bowls that can trap limbs, and 'strainers' (submerged logs) that pin swimmers against obstructions. Aerated water near the falls has reduced buoyancy -- swimmers sink instead of floating. Vermont River Conservancy and Richmond Fire & Rescue STRONGLY advise against swimming. Treat this as a viewing / fishing access site at conservative flow only. NEVER enter the water during or within several days of heavy rain.