When it gets hot outside, some people head out to Huntington Gorge in Vermont to cool down. For some, that means tempting fate at the most dangerous swimming hole in Vermont. The spot is one of epic beauty, but it also has the ability to take lives. Huntington Gorge is sometimes called the “Hungry Gorge” for its unsated appetite for humans.

The Huntington Gorge is almost otherworldly in its beauty.

FourSquare/Robert B. The rock formations are worn into stunning shapes by rushing water over time and a series of waterfalls brings a sense of magic to the area.

The pools are inviting, almost begging you to jump in.

Google Images/Matthew Doe It’s no wonder that visitors arrive in throngs to swim in this natural paradise in Richmond.

But beauty can be deceptive sometimes and this oasis has a few hidden dangers.

Google Images/Brian Miller

The death toll at Huntington Gorge is now more than 25 people since the 1950s, despite the various warning signs around the gorge.

Flickr/HystericalMark

Slippery rocks near the edges of the gorge have led to more than one death.

Google Images/Tavis Bogue

Strong unexpected currents have also claimed some lives at this dangerous swimming hole.

Google Images/Andrew M

Despite the negative buzz circling around this swimming spot, on any given summer day, you’ll find plenty of people cooling down in the water.

Google Images/Robert Girone

If you decide to visit, go prepared.

Google Images/Matthew Doe Take the time to learn where it is safe to swim and where it’s not.

Stick to the shallower areas of the river and keep away from the falls and gorge itself and you’ll be just fine.

Google Images/Pikens 劉 You don’t want to end up being the next meal for this “Hungry Gorge”.

Have you ever tempted fate at this dangerous swimming hole? For other safer places to swim in Vermont, check out this list of natural swimming holes.

FourSquare/Robert B.

The rock formations are worn into stunning shapes by rushing water over time and a series of waterfalls brings a sense of magic to the area.

Google Images/Matthew Doe

It’s no wonder that visitors arrive in throngs to swim in this natural paradise in Richmond.

Google Images/Brian Miller

Flickr/HystericalMark

Google Images/Tavis Bogue

Google Images/Andrew M

Google Images/Robert Girone

Take the time to learn where it is safe to swim and where it’s not.

Google Images/Pikens 劉

You don’t want to end up being the next meal for this “Hungry Gorge”.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.