A short scramble through the woods off Route 2 leads to a small waterfall and swimming pool on the Deerfield River. There's no official trail, no lifeguard, and no posted rules, just a roadside pull-off and a well-worn word-of-mouth reputation.
What to expect
Swimming
Water not monitored by DPH
Entry fee
You don't need a sticker for this spot; The town runs no parking-sticker or parking-permit program; its Permits page lists only curb-cut, one-day liquor and special-event permits.
Accessibility
Not step-free; reaching the water means an unmarked woods scramble with no maintained path
Dogs
No dog may be allowed to roam at large on another person's land without that person's permission, or on any portion of a public highway. The by-law names no leash and no leash length. Hunting and sporting dogs are excepted while working.
Getting in
Access points along this beach
Route 2 pull-off
the parking/trailhead point; the falls sit a short walk further west
Common questions
Is Whirley Baths in Charlemont open today?
open to the public; water quality here is not monitored by MA DPH (updated 2026-09-14). MA DPH is the authority. Check the status the morning you go.
Where do I park for Whirley Baths?
A small roadside lot on Route 2, but it's marked for live parking only and cars left unattended get towed after 30 minutes, so this isn't a spot to park and hike elsewhere.
Can you swim at Whirley Baths?
Whirley Baths is town-owned and its water is not monitored by MA DPH, so there is no official swim status. Check conditions posted at the beach.
Are dogs allowed at Whirley Baths?
No dog may be allowed to roam at large on another person's land without that person's permission, or on any portion of a public highway. The by-law names no leash and no leash length. Hunting and sporting dogs are excepted while working.
Is there an entry fee at Whirley Baths?
You don't need a sticker for this spot; The town runs no parking-sticker or parking-permit program; its Permits page lists only curb-cut, one-day liquor and special-event permits.