Punch Bowl Swimming Hole

The Punch Bowl is a deeper pool tied to the Warren Falls complex on the Mad River -- about two miles south of Warren village off VT 100, on Green Mountain National Forest land -- not a separate feature in a different town. It sits a short walk downstream or upstream of the main Warren Falls ledges, where the river drops through a series of pools, cliffs, and stone slabs. The area has a long local tradition as a clothing-optional swim, though the Forest Service does not post it as such and most visitors wear suits. Park in the main Warren Falls lot off VT 100, follow the path down to the river, and scout before committing: jumps here carry real risk, the rocks stay slick even in dry weather, and flow reacts fast to upstream storms. There are no lifeguards, bathrooms, or signage specific to the Punch Bowl. For a tamer Mad River Valley swim, Ward's Access and the Moretown Gorge stairs at 4806 VT 100B are better family choices.