Glen Lake

Tucked away in the rolling landscape near Rutland, Castleton, and West Castleton, Glen Lake is one of Vermont's quieter rewards — an unofficial swimming destination where the pace slows, the water cools your skin, and the surrounding forest holds you in a kind of easy stillness. This is not a developed beach with concession stands and crowds. It's the kind of place you discover, return to, and tell only your closest friends about.

The Setting and Landscape

Glen Lake sits in a verdant pocket of central Vermont, its north shore lined with small, semi-private beach areas that feel genuinely removed from the everyday. Tall hardwoods lean toward the water's edge, and in summer, the canopy filters afternoon light into shifting patterns on the surface. The lake reflects the kind of deep green-blue you associate with Vermont at its most unspoiled. Birdwatchers will find the shoreline particularly rewarding — herons, warblers, and woodland species are regular visitors. In fall, the hills surrounding the lake ignite with foliage color, making it a year-round destination for those willing to explore beyond the obvious. Spring brings blooming wildflowers along the shoreline trails, and winter transforms the scene into something quietly spectacular under snow.

Swimming at Glen Lake

The water at Glen Lake is clear and cool — the hallmark of a healthy Vermont lake fed by woodland hydrology. You'll wade in from small, semi-private beach patches accessible along the shoreline trail, feeling the smooth lake bottom give way to the refreshing depth of open water. The swimming here is unhurried and unstructured, the way lake swimming was always meant to be. Glen Lake is notably clothing-optional at certain areas along its shores, giving it a free-spirited character that attracts visitors who value privacy and a connection with the natural world on their own terms. Peak swimming season runs through July and August, when water temperatures are at their most welcoming. Note that this is an unofficial swimming site with no confirmed lifeguard or safety staff on duty — swimmers should exercise appropriate caution and never swim alone.

Trails, Access, and What to Expect

Getting to the water requires a short walk along accessible hiking trails rated easy to moderate. The terrain is manageable for most visitors, though the occasional rocky stretch means sturdy footwear is genuinely worth wearing. Facilities at Glen Lake are unconfirmed, so arrive self-sufficient — pack water, snacks, sun protection, and anything else you'll need for a comfortable day out. Entry fees are not confirmed, so it's wise to carry some cash and check local information before you go. The informal, unhurried atmosphere is part of Glen Lake's appeal: this is a place where you set your own schedule.

Plan Your Visit

Glen Lake is conveniently situated near the towns of Rutland, Castleton, and West Castleton, Vermont, each offering dining, lodging, and supplies for trip planning. Nearby Bomoseen State Park offers confirmed camping, making Glen Lake an excellent addition to a longer stay in the region. Whether you're road-tripping through Vermont's interior, based in Rutland for the weekend, or simply chasing a quiet afternoon on the water, Glen Lake delivers the kind of unhurried, scenery-rich experience that defines the Vermont outdoor character at its best.

Located near Castleton, a historic town with roots dating back to 1787. Close to Rutland, the cultural hub of Vermont’s Senate district.

Follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the lake’s ecosystem. Avoid disturbing wildlife and ensure all trash is removed after your visit.