Bolton Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Bolton Falls
Bolton Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Bolton, Vermont, along the Winooski River. It is a popular spot for photography and nature enthusiasts due to its picturesque setting and accessibility. The falls are relatively small but charming, with cascading water over rocky ledges.
The Setting
Bolton Falls sits at 397 feet along the Little River, in the coastal lowlands of Vermont.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Moss Glen Falls, the tallest waterfall in Vermont at 125 feet, lies 12.7 miles to the northeast.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Bolton Falls is very short and easy, making it accessible for most visitors. It involves a brief walk from the roadside parking area to the viewing spot near the falls. The terrain is relatively flat but may be uneven in some areas.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Bolton Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Bolton Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Bolton Falls, as the water flow is typically stronger due to snowmelt and rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a serene, icy landscape.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the water as the rocks can be slippery. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or high water levels, as the currents may be dangerous.
Current Water Conditions
28 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 89 years of record
5.51 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge LITTLE RIVER NEAR WATERBURY, VT (4 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
30 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
37 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
35 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
28 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
32 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
34 cfs
3/10Sat
Barely Flowing
38 cfs
5/10Best window: Wed — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to late May, peaking in May.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Bolton hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
1-meter lidar measures about 153 feet of descent through Bolton Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 395 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 34 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 49 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 395 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 153 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Bolton Falls is located off Route 2 in Bolton, Vermont. The falls are near the Bolton Dam and can be accessed via a short walk from nearby parking areas.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is limited roadside parking available near the falls. Visitors should exercise caution when parking and ensure they are not blocking traffic or private property.
Elevation
397 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.359497° N, -72.816788° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons. Wear sturdy shoes as the ground near the falls may be slippery. Be cautious of traffic when parking along the roadside.
Where to Stay
Green Mountain Inn
Outbound Stowe
Sun & Ski Inn and Suites
Northern Lights Lodge
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Bolton Valley Resort for skiing and hiking, and the Long Trail for more extensive hiking opportunities.
Wildlife
The area around Bolton Falls is home to various bird species, small mammals, and aquatic life in the Winooski River.
Cities near Bolton Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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