Natural swimming hole
Lakes of the Clouds
Lake · New Hampshire
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
Two tiny tarns at 5,000 feet, a mile and a half below the Mount Washington summit, offer the most extreme swimming in New Hampshire. The water barely climbs above freezing even in summer, so this is a bragging-rights plunge, not a leisurely swim. Warm up afterward with a hot drink at the nearby AMC hut.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Water temperature | barely above freezing in summer |
| Depth | shallow |
| Best season | July-August |
| Fees | Free |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | Hike in only via Presidential Range trails |
| County | Coos County |
| Nearest town | Mount Washington |
| Safety notes | Hypothermia risk; extremely cold; hike-in only |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Lakes of the Clouds?
Yes — Lakes of the Clouds is listed as a natural swimming spot in New Hampshire. Reported water temperature: barely above freezing in summer. Heads-up: Hypothermia risk; extremely cold; hike-in only. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Lakes of the Clouds require reservations?
No reservations are required at Lakes of the Clouds based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Lakes of the Clouds?
Reported fee info: Free. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Lakes of the Clouds?
The best season is typically July-August.