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North Carolina summers get hot fast, and I’ve learned that nothing beats a good swimming hole hike when the temperatures climb.

I’ve spent the past few years exploring these spots across the state. Some were planned, others I stumbled on by accident, but all of them involved a hike, a swim, and usually lunch eaten on a rock or snagged post hike.

After plenty of trails (and more than a few cold-water dips), I’ve managed to narrow them down to my top seven. These are the North Carolina swimming holes I’d send to a friend without hesitation. A mix of popular spots and quieter finds, but all worth the trip.

1. High Falls (Dupont State Forest)

Easily one of the most iconic waterfalls in North Carolina, High Falls in DuPont State Forest should be on your list.

This was the first North Carolina waterfall I visited, just a few weeks after my husband and I moved down from the Midwest for his residency. We hiked it on July 4th—which I wouldn’t recommend if you’re hoping for any peace and quiet—but swimming here was still such a fun way to kick off summer in our new home.

The waterfall itself is massive, and hearing the roar as you get closer never really gets old. The hike to the base isn’t too bad, but you’ll need to watch your footing as you get closer.

If you’re planning to swim, just be careful near the rocks. They get super slippery, and the current picks up fast the closer you get to the falls.

2. Midnight Hole (Great Smoky Mountains)

Midnight Hole just reopened after storm damage, and it’s an easy spot to add to your summer list. The trail is a steady walk through the forest, following Big Creek most of the way. It’s well-maintained but rocky in places, so proper shoes are a good idea.

The swimming hole itself is deep and cold, fed by a small waterfall with a gentle current once you’re in. There’s a small rocky beach to drop your stuff and ease in—or jump in straight from the rocks if you’re feeling brave.

I always recommend having water shoes, especially if you chose to jump from rocks, to protect your feet and help mitigate any falls.

Just a heads-up: this is bear country. I always carry bear spray when hiking in the Smokies and recommend sticking to groups when possible.

Also, follow Leave No Trace and pack out anything you bring in—this spot gets busy in summer and needs visitors to help keep it clean as staffing is tight. Even if it’s not your trash, do everyone a favor and pick it up!

If you’ve got energy after your swim, you can keep hiking to Mouse Creek Falls just up the trail.

3. Huntfish Falls (Wilson Creek Wilderness)

If you’re coming from Charlotte or the Triad area, Huntfish Falls is one of the closest swimming holes worth the drive.

The hike itself is short but beautiful, with a steady downhill path through the forest. Just keep in mind it’s all uphill on the way back, so save a little energy for the climb.

The swimming hole here is massive, fed by a wide waterfall that makes it an ideal spot to cool off. The water’s clear and deep enough for a proper swim. I always keep an eye out near the rocks, though—snakes occasionally like to hide out along the edges.

The trail can get muddy after rain, and some sections stay slick even when dry, so proper footwear is a good idea. Parking is tight, so getting there early will give you the best shot at a space.

4. Secret Falls (Highlands, NC)

Secret Falls is one of those spots I wish I’d found sooner. It’s become one of my favorite swimming holes in North Carolina, and every time I visit, I wonder why it took me so long to check it out.

The drive out from Highlands includes a stretch of gravel road, but it’s doable in pretty much any car. Just take it slow.

The trail itself is short and manageable, even for kids. After a short, mostly gentle walk through the forest, you’ll reach the falls.

The swimming hole here is surprisingly deep, with clear water and plenty of space to swim. You can carefully walk right up to the waterfall if you’re feeling brave, though the rocks get slippery fast.

There are also plenty of large rocks around the pool where you can stretch out and relax after your swim. I’ve seen people sunbathe here, but I usually just sit for a while before heading back up the trail.

This spot does get busy, especially on weekends, so arriving early will give you the best chance of having it to yourself.

5. Sliding Rock (Brevard)

Sliding Rock is probably the most famous swimming hole in North Carolina, though it’s more of a natural water slide than a traditional pool. A steady flow of around 11,000 gallons of water rushes down the rock every minute, sending swimmers sliding straight into the plunge pool below.

There’s a $5 admission fee per person, and the site is staffed during peak hours, with lifeguards on duty and bathrooms available near the entrance.

If you’re planning a visit, it’s worth going early. The parking lot fills up quickly, and lines can get long, though they usually move pretty fast thanks to the slide’s steady flow of people.

If you’re after a classic summer experience, this one’s probably worth adding to your plans.

6. Courthouse Falls

Courthouse Falls is an incredible spot for a cold plunge, and is sort of a hidden gem in North Carolina.

The swimming hole here is deep and clear, and the water stays cold even in the middle of summer. Most people just jump straight in.

The trail is short and pretty easy. You’ll walk through the forest until you hit a split right after the bridge, and you’ll go left. You should see a sign after a little while (wait for the sign and don’t take the false trail like we did the first time we visited).

The steps down to the waterfall are narrow and a little steep, but nothing too difficult if you take your time.

Parking is about 35 minutes from Brevard, at the end of a gravel forest road that only opens in the summer months. If the gate’s closed, you’ll have to walk around three miles along the road to reach the trailhead, so it’s worth aiming to visit between May and September when the gate is open.

This is a popular spot for people to swim and spend the day. Unfortunately, that means trash can be an issue. Please pack out all items you bring with you so the falls remain as beautiful as they should be.

7. High Falls (Nantahala Forest)

North Carolina seems to love reusing waterfall names, but this version of High Falls is a whole different experience from the DuPont one. I found this spot in 2023 and instantly became a fan.

It’s quiet, feels like more of an adventure, and has one of the best swimming holes I’ve found in the Nantahala area. Located a short drive from Cashiers, NC, it’s the perfect spot to visit if you’re spending a day or weekend in the area.

The hike itself isn’t too difficult, though the trail can be easy to miss if you’re not paying attention. I’ve passed people heading further along the main trail without even realizing there’s a waterfall down here. You’ll need to branch off and head down toward the Thompson River to reach the falls.

The final stretch is where things get interesting. The last downhill section is steep enough that I found myself using my hands for balance a few times.

Once you’re at the bottom, you’ll need to wade across the river to access the main waterfall and swimming hole. When I went in July, the water was only shin-deep, but I’d still recommend water shoes for grip.

Swimming here is a lot of fun, and the pool is pretty big. Both times I’ve been, I’ve had the place almost to myself, which makes it even better. You can swim right up close to the falls or just relax in the deeper parts of the pool.

If you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, this one’s a great option.

FAQ: North Carolina Swimming Holes

What is the cleanest lake in North Carolina for swimming?

Lake James and Lake Norman usually get the top spot for clean lakes. But if you’re after fresher water, swimming holes tend to have the edge thanks to constant flow from streams and waterfalls.

Which state has the best swimming holes?

I might be biased, but North Carolina is hard to beat. Between the mountain scenery, endless waterfalls, and those humid summer days that make a cold dip feel even better, swimming holes are pretty much part of life here.

What’s the coolest waterfall in North Carolina?

That’s a tough call. For easy access, Looking Glass Falls is a classic. But if you’re after something quieter, Secret Falls near Highlands has that tucked-away feel and a great swimming spot to go with it.

Wrap-Up: North Carolina Swimming Holes

If you’re anything like me, once you find a good swimming hole, you’ll want to keep adding more to your list. I’ve hiked, swum, and scrambled my way to plenty across North Carolina, but these are the ones that stuck with me.

If you head out to any of these, please pick up your trash and leave the spot better than you found it. And keep an eye out for snakes and other wildlife—this is their home, too.

Read More:

27 Amazing Waterfalls in North Carolina

Best Things To Do In Cherokee, North Carolina

11 Best Hikes in Cashiers NC

Best Hikes in Highlands NC