Natural swimming hole
Bickford Slides
Waterfall · Maine
Community-reported spot. Details below are compiled from public sources and are reported to be accurate — always verify locally before visiting.
About this swimming hole
A series of cascades and slides on Bickford Brook in the Caribou-Speckled Mountain Wilderness of the White Mountain National Forest in Evans Notch, reached from the Brickett Place lot on Route 113 in Stow. The middle slides are the most popular swimming hole on the route, ending in an attractive pool in a large shaded glen, and the upper slides have another fine swimming hole at their base. The lower slides are view-only — their gorge walls are described as very dangerous.
Good to know
| Water type | Waterfall |
|---|---|
| Depth | Middle slides pool about 5 feet deep; upper slides pool about 3 feet deep |
| Best season | July-September |
| Fees | White Mountain National Forest parking pass required at Brickett Place |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | Brickett Place hiker lot off Route 113 in Evans Notch, Stow |
| County | Oxford County |
| Nearest town | Stow |
| Safety notes | Do not attempt to explore the lower slides — sheer, slippery gorge walls are very dangerous; slippery rocks throughout; remote wilderness with no lifeguard; Route 113 section near Brickett Place is gated in the off-season from the north |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Bickford Slides?
Yes — Bickford Slides is listed as a natural swimming spot in Maine. Heads-up: Do not attempt to explore the lower slides — sheer, slippery gorge walls are very dangerous; slippery rocks throughout; remote wilderness with no lifeguard; Route 113 section near Brickett Place is gated in the off-season from the north. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Bickford Slides require reservations?
No reservations are required at Bickford Slides based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Bickford Slides?
Reported fee info: White Mountain National Forest parking pass required at Brickett Place. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Bickford Slides?
The best season is typically July-September.