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Fairfax Falls
Fairfax, Vermont
Forest cascade. Roadside pull-off access—use the shoulder safely and watch traffic. Near Fairfax.
At a glance
Overview
Forest cascade. Plan for about 3-6 minutes from the River Street picnic area down to the viewing ledges (0.1 mi one way if you hike the full approach). Most visitors come for the view; swimming may be limited or not allowed.
- County
- Franklin County
- Water type
- Waterfall
- Waterfall type
- Cascade
Know before you go
Not wheelchair accessible
Conditions
Conditions snapshot
Check posted signs and official updates before entering.
Getting there
Fairfax Falls is an active Green Mountain Power HYDROELECTRIC DAM (FERC P-2205) on the Lamoille River in Fairfax -- it is NOT a natural waterfall destination and not a swim spot. The falls are visible from VT 104 as you cross the Lamoille, but the best legal viewing is from the Fairfax Falls Picnic Area / Fishing Access off River Street. From VT 104 cross the Lamoille River bridge heading south and turn LEFT onto River Street/River Road; follow the rough downhill access road to the GMP-maintained picnic and fishing access above the pool below the dam. The gravel/dirt access road is rutted and narrow -- a vehicle with higher clearance is strongly recommended; sedans should park at the top and walk down. Do not approach the dam itself, penstock, or canal: trespass is enforced and releases can change the river level in minutes.
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