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The 5 Best Hiking Trails Where You Can Swim In the U.S.

The best hikes in the U.S. are often those that allow for a refreshing dip in a cool mountain stream at the end of a long day on the trail or even a quick swim before you hike back out later in the afternoon. The following five hiking trails offer just this! Whether it’s an easy stroll through tranquil forest streams or an arduous trek to hidden pools high up on snowy mountaintops, these five hikes all have one thing in common: they will reward you with some excellent swimming holes along your way.

The best hiking trails where you can swim in the United States

Below is a list of my favorite hiking trails in the U.S., with great swimming spots nearby.

1. Chattahoochee National Forest

The Chattahoochee National Forest is a beautiful, sprawling 870,000-acre forest stretching across northern Georgia. Within its borders are some of the best hiking trails in the state, including several that feature excellent swimming holes.

The most popular swimming hole in the Chattahoochee National Forest is undoubtedly Alexander Lake, easily accessed from the hiking trail near the Interpretive Center. The lake is fed by a small creek that flows over a series of boulders and small waterfalls, creating a perfect place to take a dip on a hot summer day.

You can find other excellent swimming holes along the Dick’s Creek and Hemlock Falls trails, both of which offer beautiful hikes through shady forests and along rushing mountain streams.

For a more strenuous hike that leads to a great swimming hole, be sure to check out the Raven Cliff Falls trail. This challenging 11-mile trek climbs nearly 4000 feet up to the stunning 400-foot Raven Cliff Falls, where you can take a refreshing dip in the cool mountain water.

The Chattahoochee National Forest is undoubtedly one of the best places in Georgia for hiking and swimming!

2. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

The hiking trails at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park are some of the most beautiful in Kentucky. The park is home to Cumberland Falls, the largest waterfall in the state, and a variety of other scenic waterfalls and streams.

One of the most popular hiking trails in the park is the Eagle Falls Trail, which leads to a beautiful waterfall that can be reached by swimming or wading across Eagle Creek. The trail is only a half-mile long, making it a perfect choice for families or beginner hikers.

For a more challenging hike, be sure to check out the 6-mile Chimney Top Trail, which leads to the top of Cumberland Falls. This strenuous hike offers impressive views of the surrounding countryside, as well as a chance to take a refreshing swim in the calm waters of Cumberland Falls.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is an excellent place to go hiking and swimming in Kentucky!

3. Mount Rogers National Recreation Area

The Mount Rogers National Recreation Area is a beautiful 521,000-acre park located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. The park offers a variety of hiking trails for all levels of hikers, including several trails that lead to stunning swimming holes.

The most popular swimming hole in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area is undoubtedly Grassy Ridge Pond, easily accessed from the trail leading to Grassy Ridge Bald. The pond is fed by a small creek that flows over a series of boulders and small waterfalls, creating a perfect place to take a dip on a hot summer day.

You can find other excellent swimming holes along the Grayson Highlands and Rhododendron Gardens trails, both of which offer beautiful hikes through the scenic Appalachian Mountains.

For a more strenuous hike that leads to a great swimming hole, be sure to check out the Whitetop Mountain trail. This challenging 11-mile trek climbs nearly 5000 feet up to the summit of Whitetop Mountain, where you can take a refreshing dip in the cool mountain water.

The Mount Rogers National Recreation Area is undoubtedly one of the best places in Virginia for hiking and swimming!

4. Big Bend Ranch State Park

The hiking trails at Big Bend Ranch State Park are some of the most scenic in Texas. The park is home to various beautiful wildlife, including deer, javelinas, and coyotes.

One of the most popular hiking trails in the park is the Lost Mine Trail, which leads to a stunning waterfall that can be reached by swimming or wading across the creek. The trail is only a half-mile long, making it a perfect choice for families or beginner hikers.

For a more challenging hike, be sure to check out the 6-mile Chimney Rock Trail, which leads to the top of Chimney Rock. This strenuous hike offers fantastic views of the surrounding countryside, as well as a chance to take a refreshing swim in the calm waters of Chimney Rock.

Big Bend Ranch State Park is an excellent place to go hiking and swimming in Texas!

5. The Wave – Coyote Buttes North

The Wave – Coyote Buttes North is a stunning sandstone formation located in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness Area. The Wave is known for its colorful, undulating sandstone formations and is one of the most photographed places in the United States.

The Wave can only be accessed by hiking, and due to its popularity, the hike can often be quite crowded. The best way to avoid the crowds is to hike during the early morning or late evening hours.

For a challenging hike that leads to a fantastic destination, be sure to check out the Coyote Buttes North trails. This strenuous hike offers impressive views of The Wave and the surrounding desert landscape.

The Wave – Coyote Buttes North is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful hiking trails in the United States!

How can I find a hiking trail that includes a swimming hole?

One of the best ways to find a hiking trail that includes a swimming hole is to use keywords such as “hiking trails where you can swim.” You can also check out local hiking or outdoor recreation websites or contact your state park system for information on nearby trails, including swimming holes.

Another option is to visit a national park, such as Yellowstone National Park, which features many beautiful hiking trails with opportunities to take a dip in refreshingly cool water.

What should I bring when I go swimming on a hiking trail?

When swimming on a hiking trail, it’s essential to bring along some essential items. First and foremost, be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent, as you’ll likely be exposed to the sun and bugs for extended periods. It’s also a good idea to bring a hat, sunglasses, and swimwear.

If you’re planning on hiking a more challenging trail, be sure to pack along adequate water and snacks, as well as a first-aid kit in case of emergencies. Finally, don’t forget to bring your camera to capture all the fantastic views!

Is it safe to swim in a creek or river on a hiking trail?

It’s generally safe to swim in a creek or river on a hiking trail as long as you take precautions to avoid potential hazards.

Be sure to check for any fast-moving water or submerged rocks and logs that could cause injury. It’s also important to avoid swimming in areas that are known for being dangerous, such as near waterfalls or rapids.

If you’re unsure about the safety of a particular swimming area, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and find another place to take a dip.

What are the risks associated with swimming on a hiking trail?

Most of the risks associated with swimming on a hiking trail are related to the terrain itself. Hazards include stepping on rocks or logs, water current, and fast-moving water. It can also be dangerous to swim in known hazardous areas such as near rapids or waterfalls.

Be sure to take precautions if you plan to go through a fast-moving stream of water by holding onto nearby trees in case there is an unexpected drop-off that could cause injury.

You should also avoid swimming in a potentially more dangerous area than others. Please seek advice from someone who knows the area well before deciding to go for it!

If you get an upset stomach after drinking untreated water hinted in a mountain stream, drink plenty of fluids and eat light foods, such as saltine crackers. You might also want to consider taking an over-the-counter medication for diarrhea if you’re feeling sick.

If you have any other health concerns, please consult your doctor before swimming on a hiking trail.

Are there any safety precautions I should take when swimming on a hiking trail?

When swimming on a hiking trail, it’s essential to take precautions to avoid potential hazards.

Be sure to check for any fast-moving water or submerged rocks and logs that could cause injury. It’s also important to avoid swimming in areas that are known for being dangerous, such as near waterfalls or rapids.

If you’re unsure about the safety of a particular swimming area, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and find another place to take a dip.

You should also bring sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, and swimwear when swimming on a hiking trail.

If you have any other health concerns, please consult your doctor before taking a dip.

Conclusion

These are all great places to go hiking and swimming in America! If you’re looking for a challenging hike that leads to a fantastic destination, be sure to check out The Wave – Coyote Buttes North trails.

For family-friendly hikes with stunning views of waterfalls, head on over to Cumberland Falls State Resort Park or Big Bend Ranch State Park. And if you want something more strenuous, try your hand at Mount Rogers National Recreation Area or Grassy Ridge Pond Trail.

Both offer beautiful scenery and refreshing pools of cool water, perfect for taking a dip on hot summer days! Whatever type of trail you decide is best for you, be sure to enjoy a refreshing swim in the beautiful waters of America’s hiking trails!