The Great Smoky Mountains are filled with hidden gems and secret spots perfect for unexpected discovery. From charming small towns to fantastic natural attractions, the opportunities for adventure are endless. When the temperatures start rising and the hikes get a bit longer, we’re all searching for a cool swimming hole to dip in. One that is a true hidden gem and filled with natural, mountain-fed water is Midnight Hole in North Carolina, tucked deep inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Trip Advisor / Staci R
The magical Midnight Hole in North Carolina has long been a secret swimming spot for locals and travelers alike. Located in the Big Creek area of the Smoky Mountains, getting there involves a short but worth it hike. Many people love to take a dip here in the heat of summer as the mountain-fed water stays pretty cool year-round.
Trip Advisor / T2daC
You'll find 'Midnight Hole' sectioned between two large boulders with gentle cascades surrounding the swimming area. While looks can be deceiving, the section around the rocks is actually quite deep with many preferring to jump off the boulders and straight in (helps get you in when the water is SUPER cold too).

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If you go on a weekday where the crowds will be less large, you might have a hard time even finding this elusive swimming hole, for many, they stumbled upon it. There's also no clear-cut sign indicating Midnight Hole, but from looking at these images you'll sure know when you get there. If you're looking for how to find it, follow Big Creek Trail from the parking area. The trail flows you through dense wilderness and in the late spring and early summer wildflower blooms add an extra treat to the scenery. In about 1.5 miles you'll reach Midnight Hole.
Trip Advisor / miketr87
If it's your first time venturing here, it's best to go on a weekend. While you might expect some crowds, at least you'll know how to get there and can surely spot you've reached your destination by sunbathers, swimmers, and hikers. Midnight Hole is also located near Mouse Creek Falls. If you continue to follow Big Creek Trail for 0.5 miles after Midnight Hole, you'll stumble upon a side trail that will lead you to Mouse Creek.
Flickr / Alex Ford
As with any well-kept secret, visitors are asked to respect the land and the property when visiting Midnight Hole in North Carolina. Please don't litter or leave trash; make sure to leave the area as beautiful as when you stumbled upon it. The crystal-clear water and gorgeous mountain surroundings make this one of the greatest under-the-radar swimming holes you'll find in North Carolina.

Looking for more in-depth directions? This Google Map will show you how and where to access the Big Creek Trailhead. Have you visited Midnight Hole in North Carolina before? Are there any other hidden gems in the Smokies you absolutely love?

While you’re in the area, head north to Valle Crucis and dine at this amazing mountain restaurant. Or, for more incredible waterfalls, check out this waterfall loop through North Carolina that will take you to 11 different falls.

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Midnight Hole in North Carolina

Beth C. | April 26, 2021

Where are some other swimming holes in North Carolina?

One of the best ways to cool off during the warmer months is by taking a dip in a natural swimming hole. The Tar Heel State features many of these spots, and each one of them is worth seeking out. In addition to Midnight Hole in North Carolina, some other incredible swimming holes include White Lake, Sliding Rock, Looking Glass Falls, Hooker Falls, Deep Creek, Lake Lure, Deep Bottom, Yadkin River, Shacktown Falls, Skinny Dip Falls, Cashiers Sliding Rock, Elk River Falls, Yadkin Valley Falls, and Yellow Creek Falls. Learn more about these swimming holes in North Carolina.

What are the most beautiful waterfalls in North Carolina?

There are so many waterfalls in North Carolina that it's almost overwhelming to select the most beautiful. From double-pronged falls to cascades and seemingly neverending falls, the Tar Heel State is blessed in the waterfall department. Some of the most beautiful waterfalls in North Carolina you'll want to visit include Looking Glass Falls, High Falls, Bubbling Spring Branch Cascades, Turtleback Falls, Cathedral Falls, Wildcat Falls, Silver Run Falls, Upper Catawba Falls, Hickory Nut Falls, Mingo Falls, Tom Branch Falls, Crabtree Falls, Dry Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Sunburst Falls, Moore Cove Falls, Soco Falls, Schoolhouse Falls, and Elk Falls. For more information about each of these beautiful waterfalls, check out our previous article.

Does North Carolina have any hot springs?

You bet! In fact, there's even a town named after this magical natural feature: Hot Springs, North Carolina. Located right along the Appalachian Trail, Hot Springs is renowned for its incredible natural surroundings. Visitors are encouraged to stop by the Hot Springs Resort and Spa where they can rent a private tub heated naturally with the mineral waters. These waters are infused with natural healing properties, so you can truly relax your stress away. Learn more about what makes Hot Springs, North Carolina such a fantastic place to visit.

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Mouse Creek Falls, North Carolina 28785, USA