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 or kayak parks, 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 the Sheltowee Connector / Suspension Bridge Trail for some Red River Gorge swimming. It’s along this trail that you’ll find an incredible natural swimming hole in KY, among other surprises, that are fun-filled and filled with nostalgia.

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.
Photo Courtesy of @kathy77777
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.
Photo Courtesy of @kathy77777
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.
Flickr/R Nicholas
The area is rather popular with those who have discovered it, and it’s not hard to see why!

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You'll see adventurers jumping from the rock into the cool water below, and it’s quite exhilarating if you decide to try it for yourself!
Photo Courtesy of @kathy77777
Obviously, use caution if you wish to take a flying leap off the rock, as any natural diving spot like this comes with a degree of danger.
Photo Courtesy of @kathy77777
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!
Photo Courtesy of @kathy77777
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.
Photo Courtesy of @kathy77777
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 KY swimming hole 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? Do you know of any other Red River Gorge swimming holes where you like to cool off on a hot summer day? Let us know in the comments!

If you love this spot and want to check out others like it, check out our previous article featuring another Kentucky swimming hole that can only be reached by boat!

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Red River Gorge Swimming

Katie Lawrence | June 02, 2022

What are the best natural swimming holes in Kentucky?

The best natural swimming holes in Kentucky are:

  • Blue Heron
  • Clifty Creek
  • Grassy Creek
  • Happy Hollow

 

If you're in search of a natural swimming hole in KY to cool off in this summer, it doesn't get much better than Falling Rock Park in La Grange. Otherwise known as "The Quarry," this adults-only oasis is a mere 35-minute drive from Louisville. Plus, it's fed only by rainfall, so the water is some of the most pristine you'll ever swim in. There are plenty of rocks on which you can lay down a towel and soak up some rays, and the pool is large enough to accommodate lots of swimmers. It's also a popular dive spot complete with an underwater pay phone! Everyone in the water must wear a flotation device, and the day-use fee is $10 per person.

What are the best waterparks in Kentucky?

The best waterparks in Kentucky are:

  • Kentucky Splash Water Park
  • Paradise Cove Aquatic Center
  • SomerSplash Waterpark
  • Venture River Water Park

 

On a hot summer day, nothing beats visiting a Kentucky waterpark to beat the heat. One of the best waterparks in Kentucky is Kentucky Splash Waterpark, located in Williamsburg. This sprawling waterpark keeps the fun going all day long with attractions for all ages, from thrilling waterslides to a 6,000-square-foot splash pad for the kiddos. A massive wave pool will make you feel like you're in the ocean, and the winding lazy river is perfect for a relaxing float. There's also an 18-hole mini golf course, so you can give your sea legs a rest and try to score a hole-in-one.

What are the most beautiful beaches in Kentucky?

The most beautiful beaches in Kentucky are:

  • Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park
  • Carr Creek State Park
  • Barren River Lake State Resort Park
  • Lake Barkley State Resort Park

 

For a state with no coastline, Kentucky is surprising brimming with beaches ideal for a summer vacation. One of the most beautiful beaches in Kentucky is, hands-down, Lake Barkley State Resort Park Beach. Open to not only just hotel guests, but also the general public, this lovely beach has pearly white sands and crystal-clear waters, plus a beach volleyball court, bathhouse, and marina.

 

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Red River Gorge, Kentucky 40387, USA