Kentucky’s Most Refreshing Hike Will Lead You Straight To A Beautiful Swimming Hole
It goes without saying that there are countless hidden spots throughout Kentucky that only the locals know about. Some of these have been “discovered” and others haven’t, and then there are those that are hard to track down, so they just don’t attract many visitors. No matter the situation, we love to share these hidden gems in the hope that those who are truly motivated to see them can seek them out and enjoy the place in a respectful manner. That is the hope with this little hike that leads to one of the best swimming holes in Kentucky. Gabe’s Branch Falls is off the beaten path but this refreshing hike leads straight to a beautiful waterfall that’s perfect for swimming on a hot Kentucky day.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
If the most hidden spots are also the most rewarding, then Gabe's Branch Falls is definitely worth seeking out.
It's located off a mountain road that alternates from paved to dirt and nothing about it is clearly marked. However, if you follow the link below, detailed directions are provided.
Once you park off the gravel road and make your way along the trail, you'll see that you begin along a ridge that looks down on the water.
Part of the trail follows along the creek and the entire area is worth exploring. While it's obvious where the trail has been blazed in the past, keep in mind this is not an official path, but one made over years and years of use.
When you hear the rush of the water, you know you're right above the waterfall.
If the water is flowing forcefully, this is definitely not recommended. All around the trail and the falls, you'll want to be sure to use common sense and also keep the area clean as if you were never there.
The path does lead down to the base of the falls, where you can get a closer look at the turquoise water.
It's easy to see why this has long been a favorite local swimming hole in Kentucky. The surrounding rock formations make the perfect pool and the water gently gets deeper, until it eventually reaches a depth of 8-10 feet.
Once you've reached the rocky bank of the creek's pool, go ahead and cool off on those hot days.
The water is often a tropical shade of blue and is a great temperature in the heat, thanks to the mountain creek.
As one of the best swimming holes in Kentucky, you may run into a few others at Gabe's Branch, but many times you'll have it all to yourself. That is, if you can find this hidden gem in the mountains of this scenic area of our state.
The refreshing hike to Gabe’s Branch Falls has been a local favorite for generations and this hidden gem is definitely one of the best swimming holes in Kentucky. If you choose to visit, as with every spot in our beautiful state, be respectful and leave no trace of your adventure. Are you from this area and have you explored this swimming spot and waterfall? Share your experience with us in the comments!
For directions and more information on the falls, visit here. The Harlan County website also shares some information on the trail here.
Special thanks to Patricia Miniard Rigney, AKA Greasy Creek Gal, for the use of many of these photos. See more of her Kentucky adventures in this area on her Facebook page here.
And while you’re in the area, be sure to visit the highest point in Kentucky, featured in a previous article here.
A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
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