Hamilton Falls in July 2015
Most of Vermont has rather hilly terrain, and yet there don’t seem to be as many documented/listed waterfalls in southern Vermont as there are in northern and central Vermont. One of the taller waterfalls in southern Vermont is Hamilton Falls. (Two others, Jelly Mill Falls and Pikes Falls, are also easy to visit.)
While it may be a quicker hike from certain parking areas near the falls, the preferred method is starting from Jamaica State Park, and following trails which lead to Hamilton Falls. Please follow posted signs and be extremely careful.
What you’re rewarded with is an approximately 125′ waterfall, though you may not be able to see the top portion very well. I don’t know if this waterfall ever sees a significant amount of water flowing through, the evidence being the very specific way the water has carved through the rock, leaving specific trails for the water to follow. If you like the idea of swimming at the base of a waterfall, this one would be particularly ideal. There were a number of people swimming in the water pool at the base.
Directions:
- In the Village of Jamaica along VT-100/VT-30, if you’re headed west, turn right onto Depot Street toward Jamaica State Park.
- Park in Jamaica State Park, and then follow the West River Trail (northeast), which follows the West River.
- Follow the West River Trail to the Switch Road Trail, which will lead to the Hamilton Falls Natural Area.
Accessibility: unsure
Length of Hike: 3.4 miles round trip
Height: ~125′
Where in the World is Hamilton Falls?
The Waterfall Record 
There are VERY limited ( aprox. 4) parking spots available at Hamilton Falls Natural Area on West Windham Road. A Ranger is on staff to enforce this. The best way to enjoy Hamilton Falls is to go to Jamaica Village and Jamaica State Park. Walk along the historic West River Trail and take a short hike up to Hamilton Falls. Overcrowding is a serious problem at the waterfall. Thank you for your consideration of this fragile area.
Please delete this information. The VT dept. of Forests, Parks, & Recreation allows LIMITED ( c. 4 spaces) parking on West Windham Rd. and encourages visitors to access the falls through Jamaica State Park in Jamaica Village.
Thanks for the update! I’ve updated the page now…sorry it took so long, I had trouble logging into my account.
Could you please update your directions to Hamilton Falls to reflect the changes that the Vermont Dept. of Forest, Parks and Recreation has made. Now they are requesting that people access Hamilton Falls through Jamaica State Park in Jamaica Village. There is extremely limited parking at the waterfall for people who are unable to make the walk. Thank you.
Thanks for the update! I’ve updated the page now!
Hi, Could you please update your directions to Hamilton Falls Natural Area, Jamaica, VT? People need to park at Jamaica State Park, 48 Salmon Hole Lane and walk to Hamilton Falls now. There are 4-6 parking sites off West Windham Road, for people who are unable to make the walk from Jamaica State Park. Changing the directions on your website would help people avoid unnecessary driving and possibly help them avoid a parking ticket. There have been serious overcrowding and safety issues at this beautiful spot and we all need to try to help The State of Vermont give this place the protection it needs. Thank you very much for your help with this!