It just so happens that this year’s Summer Solstice falls on a Thursday, so we’re going to throw-it-back to some of our favorite articles on the best swimming holes in the Blue Ridge.
Today, June 21, marks the first day of summer! While most of Appalachia felt like it never had a spring, we’re excited that summer has come into full swing. Sure, there are more thunderstorms, it’s hotter, and we forget what sunscreen is until we get that first burn, but it’s Summer and we love it.
Swimming holes are synonymous with summertime in the Blue Ridge. Whether you’re looking to dive into a waterfall like a majestic mountain mermaid or simply kick it by the lake like with your favorite brew, we’ve got your list(s) below.
Earn Your Splash: 2018 Southern Swimming Hole Guide
It’s no secret that the best swimming holes in our area take a little effort to get to. They’re always worth the hike. From epic sliding falls to pristine waterfall pools, this list by Jess Daddio is sure to inspire to you to put on your hiking boots, throw a towel over your shoulder, and head into the woods for a swim.
Best Swimming Holes To Jump Into This Summer
From Virginia to Tennesse and on down to Georgia, this list by Darren Dahl from the summer of 2015 features some incredibly unique swimming holes to jump or slide into. Honestly, what is better than jumping into a mountain pool?
12 Top Swimming Holes In Our National Parks
Our region is home to several National Parks and those parks are home to hundreds of swimming opportunities. Chris Gragtmans lists his twelve favorite swimming holes in our National Parks from across the region. There are some gems in this August 2016 post!
Jump! A Guide To Swimming Holes With Big Splashes
BRO authors Graham Averill and Jedd Ferris teamed up to bring you this great list featuring some extra-high jumping spots into swimming holes. From 10-100 feet, these jumps will surely test your mettle and get your adrenaline pumping.
Adult Swim
This is one of my favorite lists of swimming holes on our site. With 21+ places to swim, I’d be willing to bet there are some places in this post you’ve never heard of. From the Smokies to Shenandoah, Cherokee to Nantahala, this is a fantastic guide to some epic time on the water.
Swimmer’s Guide To The Blue Ridge Parkway
With over 469 miles of road traversing multiple states and mountain ranges, the Blue Ridge Parkway is home to a wide variety of unique swimming holes. Whether you’re looking to do an entire trip down the Blue Ridge Parkway or are embarking on a little day trip to a local spot, check out this list and map of spots to swim.
Hole Lotta Splash: Beat The Heat With Nature’s Swimming Pools
From July 2011, Graham Averill shares some of his favorite spots to take a dip in the Blue Ridge. Along with a list of swimming holes, he also shares nearby towns, hikes, and other attractions to enjoy while you’re in the area.
Whether you’ve been here your whole life or are planning a trip to the mountains, I hope you found a new place to explore and swim from these lists of swimming holes.
Happy summer!
Justin Forrest is an outdoor writer, fly fishing addict, and co-founder of Narrative North—based in Asheville, N.C. He posts pictures of cats and fishing on Instagram sometimes.
