Across the rivers and streams of the Great Smoky Mountains, you’ll find a wide variety of natural pools surrounded by boulders, lush forest and waterfalls. These scenic swimming holes in the Smokies provide a beautiful and refreshing place to spend a warm afternoon, complete with crystal clear water and mountain views–a classic experience when visiting in warmer seasons. Here are the top natural swimming holes where you can cool off in the Smoky Mountains this summer!
1. Midnight Hole
This popular swimming hole is tucked along the Big Creek Trail on the North Carolina side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A deep emerald-colored pool sits beneath a small waterfall, surrounded by massive boulders, creating a fairy tale setting and a perfect spot for adventurous cliff jumpers. Located about an hour drive from Gatlinburg, this swimming hole can be reached after a moderate 1-mile hike, making it a great stop to cool off while exploring the park.
Location: Situated along the Big Creek Trail near the Tennessee/North Carolina border, accessible via I-40.
2. Metcalf Bottoms
This lovely picnic area along the Little River between Gatlinburg and Townsend offers four shallow swimming holes in calm waters that are perfect for wading, floating, and tubing. With convenient amenities like picnic tables, restrooms, ample parking and large grassy areas, this is an ideal family-friendly spot to spend a full afternoon by the water. The lush forest trails surrounding the river are great for a peaceful walk, including a short hike to the historic Little Greenbrier Schoolhouse. Access to this park is free.
Location: Located on Little River Road, it is a short drive from Townsend, Wears Valley, and Gatlinburg.
3. The Sinks
A visit to The Sinks is worth it for the views alone. An explosion to clear a jam in the river during the logging era created this powerful waterfall and deep pool surrounded by jumpable rocks. This swimming spot has dramatic scenery that photographers will love, but swimmers should be cautious of the strong currents and slippery rocks. Swimming and jumping off the rocks is not advised, but many people opt to wade or dip their feet in to cool off. Only 15 minutes from Gatlinburg and easily accessible from the parking lot, this scenic spot should be on your list for a quick stop!
Location: Little River Road, between Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area and the Townsend Wye.
4. Abrams Fall Pool
If you’re willing to hike a bit farther, the swimming hole at Abrams Falls in Cades Cove is one of the most impressive in the Smokies. Located about 45 minutes from Gatlinburg, a 5-mile roundtrip hike will take you to a large pool underneath a 20-foot waterfall, with rocky ledges and shady spots to relax and enjoy the scenery. This spot is great for more adventurous visitors and hikers cooling off after a trek, but is not recommended for children or casual swimmers due to a strong undercurrent.
Location: The waterfall is located along a 5-mile (or 4.2-mile, depending on the source) moderate-intensity, out-and-back trail in the Cades Cove area.
5. Townsend Wye
Located near the Townsend entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this is one of the most accessible swimming spots in the area. It’s just off the road, sitting where two branches of the Little River meet, creating a wide pool that’s around 7 feet deep. It’s a popular spot for floating on tubes, and the large beachy shoreline and grassy picnic areas provide plenty of room to spread out. This is a favorite spot for families and anyone who prefers minimal hiking and a laid-back atmosphere.
Location: Where Lamar Alexander Parkway intersects with Little River Road.
6. Greenbrier Swimming Holes
Tucked along the Little Pigeon River just outside of Gatlinburg, these deep calm pools are ideal for swimming and sunbathing on large rocks. This spot is in a quieter part of the park and less crowded, making it a perfect stop if you want a peaceful escape. The swimming holes are easily accessible from pull-offs along Greenbrier Road, and many visitors combine a swim here with a hike to nearby Ramsey Cascades or the Porters Creek Trail. A $5/day parking pass is required.
Location: Located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Gatlinburg, TN, accessed via Greenbrier Road off Hwy 321.
Tips for Visiting Swimming Holes in the Smoky Mountains
When to Go? The Summer months of June, July, and August offer the warmest air and water temperatures, but these are also the busiest times to visit local swimming holes. Warm fall days can be a bit quieter but still a pleasant time to enjoy the swimming holes.
Before heading out to explore these beautiful natural swimming holes in the Smoky Mountains, it’s important to keep a few safety tips in mind:
- Water temperatures are cold. Even in summer, Smoky Mountain streams are fed by mountain springs, which can make the water feel quite chilly. Bring warm layers to put on afterwards.
- Be aware of water levels. After heavy rain, currents can become strong and more dangerous. There are NO lifeguards on duty, so always swim with caution and avoid going in the water if the conditions appear unsafe.
- Wear water shoes. Rocks in and around swimming holes are slippery and uneven, so water shoes or closed back water sandles like Chacos or Tevas can be helpful.
- Arrive early / Go mid-week. Popular swimming holes can fill up quickly on summer weekends.
- Bring essentials. Sunscreen, towels, snacks, water, and lifejackets can be helpful to enjoy your day in the water. Some people choose to bring tubes or other floating devices.
One of the best parts of visiting the Smokies is having easy access to incredible outdoor experiences like these natural swimming holes. After a day spent splashing in cool mountain water, hiking scenic trails, or exploring the national park, there’s nothing better than returning to a comfortable cabin to relax and unwind.
At Compass Vacation Properties, we offer 140+ Smoky Mountain cabin rentals, the perfect home base for your mountain getaway, within easy driving distance to the top natural swimming holes in the Smoky Mountains.
