The Glacial Potholes
Shelburne Falls' "Swimming Holes"
Provide a Cool Blast from the Past
 Note:
The glacial potholes were closed to swimmers in 2002. From what I've heard,
there are still a few folks who are managing to find their way down onto the
rocks, but there's a good chance that local police will shoo you away. You can
still observe the potholes.
There's
so much old-fashioned mystique to the notion of cooling off on a sticky, steamy
New England day by taking a dip in a "swimming hole." But
"old-fashioned" doesn't quite do justice in describing the Glacial
Potholes, the glacier-carved swimming holes at the base of Salmon Falls in
Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts.
These natural outdoor "swimming pools" were several hundred million
years in the making--how fascinating to contemplate the fact that the last Ice
Age left behind an attraction to rival our modern, multi-million dollar water
amusement parks. Well, okay, the Potholes may not hold quite the excitement of a
high-speed log flume, but if you're looking to dip your toes into some cool
water after a day of seeing the sights of Shelburne Falls or driving the 63-mile
Mohawk Trail, you'll find the Glacial Potholes right in the heart of town at the
end of Deerfield Avenue.
 There
are more than 50 potholes to explore, ranging in size from 6 inches to 39 feet
in diameter. This is one of the largest known concentrations of potholes and the
location of the largest pothole on record, as well. There is no charge for
access to the Potholes, and no "supervision" is provided, so be
cautious when climbing on the rocks. Water levels may vary based on weather
conditions, but you should be able to at least treat your feet to a cool
submersing.
Also remember to bring your camera! The shadings in the ancient granite
caused by the swirling of water and stones as the glacial age began to
"melt down" are a picturesque geological sight.
...Back
to Spend a Day in Shelburne Falls
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All photographs by Kim Knox. Copyright
1999.
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