SECLUDED SWIMMING HOLES

Wooded Spots to Cool Off with No Crowds

BY LAUREN STEPP

Summers In The South Are

sweltering. But luckily the region’s wild lands are full of cool waters to find relief. If you’re in search of a secluded spot to take a swim (perhaps a skinny dip, at your own risk), we’ve rounded up 10 refreshing options—mountain streams and cascades with chilly pools below—in the woods of the Blue Ridge.

Avery Creek Falls

Pisgah National Forest, N.C. Stream crossings, steep descents, and loads of mud are all part of the journey to the secluded Avery Creek Falls. To access this secret swimming hole in Pisgah National Forest, drive north on U.S. Highway 276 for two miles and then turn right onto Avery Creek Road. Drive for another 2.2 miles until you see a small, two-car pull-off for Avery Creek Trail on the right. After following the blue-blazed footpath for about half a mile, you’ll hear and see the cascade—it’s hard to miss. Getting down to it, though, is a scramble. For best results, bring hiking poles.

Riprap Hollow

Shenandoah National Park, Va.

When summer temperatures in Virginia flirt with the 90s, there’s no better antidote than a trip to Riprap Hollow. Though there are several ways to access this 50-foot-wide swimming hole, our favorite is a strenuous 10-mile loop that links the Riprap and Wildcat Ridge trails with the Appalachian Trail. Gaining more than 2,000 feet in elevation, this route isn’t for inexperienced hikers. However, if you’re willing to put in the work, you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views, breathtaking waterfalls, and a celebratory dip in the spring-fed pool.

Diamond Falls

Dolly Sods Wilderness, W.Va.

West Virginia’s incredibly scenic Dolly Sods Wilderness isn’t a secret at this point, so during a summer visit you’ll likely run into picnicking families and Boy Scout troops. But the vast area has some secluded pools, including the one situated at the base of Diamond Falls. To access this waterfall, start on Red Creek Trail behind the Laneville wildlife management cabin. As the trail starts to climb steeply, cross the creek and follow an abandoned railroad grade for half a mile. You’ll hear Diamond Falls before you see it.

As the gateway to Skyline Drive and the Shenandoah National Park, we are a cozy mountain town full of color and adventure! From high peaks to deep caverns, mountain trails to river bends, Front Royal has something to offer everyone. We cordially invite you to Discover Front Royal!

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Middle Fork/Beechy Run Falls

Cranberry Wilderness, Monongahela National Forest, W.Va .

Getting to Middle Fork/Beechy Run Falls requires a 13-mile slog through West Virginia’s Cranberry Wilderness: a wild, rugged backcountry that doubles as a black bear sanctuary. Follow Big Beechy Trail for about 6.5 miles until you hear the gentle roar of the muchanticipated cascade. Swim for a spell and then return the way you came. Alternatively, you can spend the night, cross the river, and follow the Middle Fork Trail back to your car in the morning.

Graveley Falls

Headwaters State Forest, N.C.

A 20-foot cascade may seem paltry in Transylvania County, N.C. (aka the “Land of the Waterfalls”). But what Graveley Falls lacks in height, it makes up for in privacy. To access this tiny torrent, you’ll need to find the elusive trailhead off Glady Fork Road and then venture down an unmarked path into the 6,730-acre Headwaters State Forest. At about half a mile, the trail abruptly ends in a grassy field, leaving you to thrash through rhododendrons toward the sound of water. After a short but steep scramble, the canopy opens up to reveal an emerald green pool that’s perfect for a quiet swim.

Red Butt Falls

Nantahala National Forest, N.C snowshoemtn.com

Sure, you could go splish-splash in the community pool. But if you want the sweet satisfaction of cooling off in a mountain stream after an ass-kicking hike, head to Red Butt Falls. Located in Panthertown Valley in North Carolina’s Nantahala National Forest, this seldom-visited waterfall requires a five-mile, moderately difficult hike along Devil’s Elbow Trail. For all your huffing and puffing, the forest delivers swoon-worthy pools and an underrated water slide. Just avoid slipping down the 50-foot granite chute on a bare bum, lest you end up with a case of red butt (hence the waterfall’s moniker).

This summer, let Mother Nature be your therapist: fresh mountain air, endless views, and a vast network of hiking trails that will make your heart skip a beat.

What’s even more therapeutic? Book your lodging with us, and enjoy a free Activity Fun Pass for everyone in your group.