One fun way to beat the heat when you come to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the summer is swimming. Splash around in the cool water while admiring the timeless scenery. While not all the streams and creeks in the park are safe for swimming, there are several amazing spots to swim. With that being said, let us tell you how to reach some of our favorite Smoky Mountain swimming holes:
1. Midnight Hole
One place to go swimming in the Smokies is Midnight Hole. Hikers can find the spot on the Big Creek Trail. While the route is long at 10.4 miles roundtrip, Midnight Hole can be found at 1.5 miles from the trailhead. Keep an eye out for a tree with a white circle painted on it. Midnight Hole will be on your left. It has a 6-foot waterfall between two rocks that rushes into a deep pool. The plants in the water turn it green in color. Climbing on the rocks is not recommended, as they may be slippery!
2. The Little River at Townsend Wye
Another great Smoky Mountain swimming hole is the Little River at Townsend Wye. The best way to get there is by driving the Townsend entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located about 25 miles west of Gatlinburg. Townsend Wye is only about a mile past the entrance, where Lamar Alexander Parkway and Little River Road intersect and form a ‘Y’ shape. The Little River has several access points, which means plenty of parking! While the water is shallow near the shore, it does become deeper as you go further out. Along with swimming, tubing is another popular activity here.
3. Metcalf Bottoms
You’ll have a fun time swimming in the Smoky Mountains at Metcalf Bottoms. The area has a convenient location between Gatlinburg and Townsend. People of all ages will love being in the shallow creeks of the Little River. Fishing is another great activity to go along the water. Make sure you have the proper equipment along with a valid Tennessee or North Carolina fishing license. The picnic area is nearby, and it is a great place to have lunch! You can also explore the short Metcalf Bottoms Trail to see the Walker Sisters Cabin!
4. Greenbrier Swimming Hole
There is another part of the Little Pigeon River that extends out to the Greenbrier area of the Smokies. It can be reached from the main Greenbrier Road. Go for a relaxing dip after exploring one of the hiking trails, such as the Little Greenbrier Trail or the more strenuous Ramsey Cascades. You can also do some fishing in the Middle Prong of the Little Pigeon River. It is known for its rich population of trout. When you’re done with all your activities for the day, go to the picnic area for a delicious lunch before heading back.
Now you know of some great Smoky Mountain swimming holes! Want to have even more fun along the water while you’re exploring the national park? Check out our list of the best waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains!
