The Natural Swimming Hole In Kentucky That Will Take You Back To The Good Old Days
With so many hiking trails, rivers, and creeks throughout Kentucky, it comes as no surprise that our state is filled with hidden spots that are perfect for taking a dip on a hot summer day. Before outdoor water playgrounds like this one or kayak parks like this one, Kentuckians had to seek out their own natural swimming holes, and it usually involved a little adventure.
If you’d like a reminder of what summers were like during the good old days, then head to Red River Gorge and the Sheltowee Connector / Suspension Bridge Trail. It’s along this trail that you’ll find an incredible swimming hole, among other surprises, that are fun-filled and filled with nostalgia.
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
Everyone enjoys a day at the pool, but there is something extra special about spending a hot summer day seeking out a hidden water hole.
Throughout history, rivers, streams, and lakes were all people had to cool off with, so to experience one now is a great reminder of the good old days.
There's one trail within Red River Gorge where you can enjoy a natural swimming hole as well as other exciting features.
The path you'll take is called the Sheltowee Connector / Suspension Bridge Trail and it's relatively short and easy. The route features a suspension bridge that hovers over the Red River and provides a unique experience, in addition to the swimming opportunities.
Speaking of swimming, you'll know you've reached the spot when you see a calm area of water, a small beach, and a rock that seems to have been placed there just for jumping into the water.
Make sure to double-check the depth of the water below before jumping and always have a spotter nearby to watch as you take the plunge.
There is plenty of laid-back fun to be had here, even if you decide not to jump. Just wade in from the banks and enjoy a relaxing swim in the calm, cool water!
Even if you don’t swim at all, this little trail in Red River Gorge is still worth a visit and will give you an adventure and opportunity to make unforgettable summer memories in Kentucky.
Pack a bag of sunscreen, bug spray, a towel, and water and get ready for a summer day of outdoor fun.
While you’re exploring this natural oasis, think back to the days when everyone agreed to meet at the swimming hole on a hot summer day and didn't return home until the sun had slipped beneath the horizon.
To reach the parking area for this trailhead, follow these directions: From Slade, travel west on KY-11/15 and then turn right onto KY-77. Follow KY-77 through Nada Tunnel and across the Red River to KY-715. Follow KY-715 for approximately 2.5 miles to a gravel road on the right that leads to a parking area.
Cooling off in this swimming hole in Kentucky is sure to not just bring back memories of the good old days, but also the opportunity to make plenty of new ones. Did you know about this hidden swimming hole along an incredible trail in Red River Gorge? Any other spots where you like to cool off on a hot summer day? Let us know in the comments!
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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