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Tag: Sliding Rock

  • 7 Best Swimming Holes Near Asheville NC With Deep Mountain Pools

    Summer in the North Carolina mountains brings two things: heat and crowds. If you want a place to cool off without the chlorine, head for a deep, cold swimming hole. Skinny Dip Falls was once the local favorite, but storm damage changed that. Now it’s time to find a new spot.

    Where to Find Deep, Cold Swimming Holes in the NC Mountains

    The good news is there are plenty of waterfalls and pools within one to two hours of Asheville that offer clear water, quiet woods, and deep places to swim. Some are easy to reach. Others take a short hike. All are worth the trip.

    Sliding Rock (Pisgah National Forest)

    sliding rock

    Sliding Rock is one of the most popular swimming holes near Asheville. A 60-foot rock slide sends you straight into an eight-foot-deep pool of cold mountain water. The stream flows down from Looking Glass Creek, which stays chilly even on the hottest days.

    It’s about 40 miles southwest of Asheville, just past Brevard. The drive takes under an hour. There’s a $5 fee during summer, and lifeguards are on duty when it’s busy. The area also has restrooms and changing rooms.

    Come early or pick a weekday if you want space to swim. Crowds build fast, especially after noon. If you go during blueberry season, you can pair your visit with a short drive to one of the top trails for wild blueberry picking in Western NC.

    Looking Glass Falls

    looking glass falls

    Looking Glass Falls is a true roadside waterfall. You can see it from the car, but it’s worth walking down the short set of steps to reach the base. The water drops nearly 60 feet into a deep, rocky pool that stays cold year-round.

    This spot is just off Highway 276, about six miles north of Brevard and 36 miles from Asheville. The drive takes roughly an hour. There’s no fee, but parking is limited and fills quickly on summer weekends.

    Swimming is allowed when water levels are safe. The current can get strong after rain, so check before you wade in. It’s a good stop for families or anyone who wants a quick dip without a hike.

    Courthouse Falls

    courthouse falls

    Courthouse Falls is tucked deep in the forest, where a narrow stream plunges 45 feet into a deep, round pool. The water is cold and clean, and the surrounding rock walls keep the area shady and quiet.

    It’s about 50 miles from Asheville, near the Blue Ridge Parkway and NC-215. The last part of the drive is on a gravel forest road. From the parking area, it’s a short and easy walk. The round trip is just under a mile.

    The falls feel remote but aren’t hard to reach. You’ll hear the rush of water before you see the drop. This is one of the best places to swim in the area if you want a peaceful setting without a long hike.

    Stairway Falls (Horsepasture River, Near Gorges State Park)

    stairway falls

    Stairway Falls gets its name from a series of rocky steps that lead down to a wide, deep pool. Water flows over smooth boulders into a clear basin that’s great for swimming or cooling off your feet.

    The trail starts from Gorges State Park and follows the Rainbow Falls path for about half a mile. A short side trail brings you down to the falls. It’s around 55 miles from Asheville, and the drive takes about 90 minutes.

    This spot is less crowded than nearby Rainbow Falls or Turtleback Falls. The trail is steeper near the end, but the reward is a quiet pool with plenty of space to spread out on the rocks. Bring water shoes as the stones can be slick.

    Silver Run Falls (Near Cashiers, NC)

    silver run falls

    Silver Run Falls is a short waterfall that drops about 25 feet into a wide, calm pool. The water is deep enough to swim, and a small sandy area at the edge makes it easy to wade in.

    It’s located just off NC-107, about four miles south of Cashiers and roughly 85 miles from Asheville. The drive takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. From the road, it’s only a quarter-mile walk to the falls on a well-worn trail.

    This is a good option for families or anyone looking for a quiet swim in a scenic spot. It can get busy in summer, but early mornings and weekdays are usually peaceful. The shaded forest and cool water make it one of the best swimming holes in the region.

    Whaleback Swimming Hole (Davidson River, Pisgah National Forest)

    whaleback swimming hole

    Whaleback is a quiet stretch of the Davidson River with a deep, clear pool and a smooth boulder that juts out in the middle. Locals call it the “whaleback” rock, and it’s perfect for sunning or jumping into the cold mountain water.

    The spot is near the Cove Creek trailhead off US-276, just north of Sliding Rock. It’s about an hour from Asheville by car. There’s no sign, but a short walk from the forest road leads straight to the water.

    Unlike other nearby swimming holes, Whaleback often has no crowd. It’s a great place to cool off after a hike or spend a slow afternoon by the river. Bring a towel and something to sit on because the rocks are flat but hard.

    Hooker Falls (DuPont State Forest)

    hooker falls

    Hooker Falls is a wide, gentle waterfall that flows into a broad pool with a sandy bottom. The water isn’t as deep as some other spots, but it’s clear, cool, and deep enough for a proper swim near the base of the falls.

    The falls are located in DuPont State Forest, about 40 miles southwest of Asheville. The drive takes around 45 minutes. From the parking area, it’s a flat, 0.25-mile walk to the water.

    This is one of the easiest swimming holes to reach, which makes it popular on weekends. The area has picnic tables, bathrooms, and space to spread out. If you’re visiting in early summer, it’s also a good spot to look for Blue Ghost fireflies in Western North Carolina.

    Bonus Tips for Visiting WNC Swimming Holes

    Western North Carolina’s swimming holes can be cold, fast-moving, or crowded. Sometimes all three. Here are a few tips to make your trip better:

    • Go early. Most spots are busiest from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
    • Check the flow. Heavy rain can make pools dangerous. Look up stream conditions before you go.
    • Pack for rocks. Bring water shoes or sandals with grip. Many pools have slick stones or sharp gravel.
    • Leave no trace. Pack out your trash, stay on the trail, and avoid damaging plants near the water.
    • Bring layers. Mountain weather changes fast, and the water is always cold. Even in August.

    Whether you’re hiking to a remote fall or pulling over for a quick dip, treat the land with care. These places only stay special if we keep them that way.

    Find Your New Favorite Swimming Hole

    Skinny Dip Falls may be gone, but Western North Carolina still has plenty of deep, cold places to swim. From roadside drops to hidden forest trails, these seven spots offer the best mix of cool water, mountain views, and room to breathe.

    Pick one close to Asheville, or try a new one each weekend. Just pack a towel, hit the road early, and let the river take care of the rest.

  • Tranquil Waters: Exploring the Best Natural Swimming Holes in North Carolina

    Tranquil Waters: Exploring the Best Natural Swimming Holes in North Carolina

    In the heart of the Long Leaf Pine state—North Carolina—a breathtaking tableau of nature unfurls itself. Amid the forested mountains, rolling plains, and coastal tidewater, a unique constellation of swimming holes reveals itself—each an invitation to dive into the state’s stunning natural beauty. Come, embark on a journey across ten of North Carolina’s finest swimming holes, each one adding a thread to a refreshing tapestry of the state’s splendor.

    Bust Your Butt Falls adorns the tableau in the enchanting Nantahala National Forest. The falls, named more for their playful potential than any actual danger, are situated on Highway 64, about 8 miles from Highlands. This public swimming hole offers an exhilarating natural waterslide experience, free of charge. However, visitors should be cautious when navigating the rocks, which can be particularly slippery due to the moss. Nearby, a large, clear pool awaits those daring enough to plunge from the rocks above, providing a thrilling addition to the serene surroundings. The laughter echoing around Bust Your Butt Falls is testament to the sheer joy this spot brings, effortlessly etching itself into the memories of those fortunate enough to visit.

    Venture east to the Smoky Mountains, and the tapestry brings us to Midnight Hole. Part of the Big Creek area in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this deep, cool pool fed by cascading waterfalls is accessible by a hike from the trailhead off Waterville Road. While free and open to the public, the rocks can be slippery, and the water is often colder than expected due to its mountain source. In the cold, clear water of Midnight Hole, the symphony of the Smokies comes alive.

    Unroll the tableau further, and the enchanting thrill of Sliding Rock is unveiled. Located in the Pisgah National Forest, about eight miles from Brevard, this 60-foot natural water slide ends in a deep, crystal-clear pool. Monitored by lifeguards during the summer, the public spot charges an entrance fee of $3 per person. Sliding Rock is not just a swimming hole—it’s a celebration of the vibrant spirit of Asheville itself.

    The tableau morphs from thrilling to tranquil with the secluded swimming spots of Lake James. Found within Lake James State Park near Nebo, these secret coves offer serene landscapes echoing with the gentle lapping of water against the shoreline. Access to these public spots is free, but renting a boat has associated costs. Visitors should be wary of potential wildlife encounters.

    The canvas of North Carolina’s aquatic beauty wouldn’t be complete without the Caribbean-like tranquility of White Lake. Boasting a sandy bottom and crystal-clear waters, this town-like swimming hole in Bladen County mirrors a tropical beach getaway. This public spot charges a small entrance fee, and swimming in designated areas is advised to avoid boating traffic.

    Emerging from the tableau is Quarry at Carrigan Farms. This granite quarry turned swimming hole in Mooresville is privately-owned. Visitors are allowed in by reservation only, with a $15 per person fee on weekdays and $20 on weekends. A swimming test is required for all visitors, or a life jacket must be used.

    Venture into the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, and you’ll uncover the magnificence of Elk River Falls. Found in the Pisgah National Forest near Elk Park, this waterfall cascades over a rocky ledge into a large, emerald pool. This public swimming hole is free, but is known for strong undercurrents and slippery rocks. Jumping off the falls is strongly discouraged due to numerous past accidents.

    Nestled in the DuPont State Forest, Hooker Falls joins the tableau. This free, public swimming hole is located near Brevard. The calmness of the water contrasts with the waterfall’s lively flow, and visitors are encouraged to stay within the designated swimming area due to strong currents near the falls.

    As the tableau transitions from the forest to the mountains, The Beach at Lake Lure emerges. Situated in the Town of Lake Lure, this public spot mimics a beach vacation with its sandy shores and a designated swimming area against the backdrop of the Hickory Nut Gorge. An admission fee is charged—$10 for adults, $8 for children—and lifeguards are on duty during operating hours.

    Lastly, tucked near Cashiers, the captivating Ebens Creek Falls concludes the tour. This free, public swimming hole is accessible by a short hike, though the trail can be steep and slippery. The pool is quite deep in places, so inexperienced swimmers should use caution.

    As this journey concludes, it’s crucial to reflect not only on the beauty and allure of these swimming holes, but also on our responsibility as visitors to protect and preserve them. These sites are not just places to cool off on a hot summer day; they are the custodians of rich biodiversity, the holders of historical tales, the lifeblood of local communities, and the silent narrators of North Carolina’s natural heritage.

    Conserving these treasures starts with simple steps. Adhering to the “Leave No Trace” principles is a good start—carry out what you carry in, leave rocks, plants, and other natural objects as you found them. Avoid feeding wildlife and keep your distance. Respecting closures, posted signs, and private property helps protect sensitive ecosystems and ensures these sites remain for future generations to enjoy.

    As you plunge into these waters, remember to prioritize safety. Be cautious of hazards like slippery rocks, strong currents, and unpredictable weather. Never swim alone, always let someone know your plans, and consider wearing a life jacket, especially in unfamiliar waters. Don’t exceed your swimming abilities and respect the power of nature.

    Having fun at these swimming holes is about more than just swimming—it’s about immersing yourself in the wildness of North Carolina. Take the time to appreciate the majesty of the surrounding forests, the whispering of the wind through the trees, the birdsong echoing through the canopies. Enjoy the way the cool water feels against your skin, the laughter and camaraderie that resonate around these swimming holes, and the sense of peace that nature effortlessly provides.

    Let the water guide you through this rich narrative. Listen as each ripple tells a tale, feel the lore of the Tar Heel State in every cool breeze, and know that in every step you take to preserve these spaces, you’re contributing to the legacy of North Carolina’s natural wonders. The joy of discovery, the thrill of adventure, and the pleasure of immersion in these idyllic swimming holes are memories waiting to be created—so dive in, the water’s fine!