Instead of a public swimming pool with chlorine, how about spending the day at a refreshing swimming hole with a waterfall in North Carolina at Harper Creek Falls Trail? You’ll find this pretty spot in the picturesque Wilson Creek Wild and Scenic River Area in Collettsville.  

The 2.8-mile out-and-back trail is a worthwhile hike to this magical waterfall with swimming holes in the Wilson Creek area.
Mary Parker Blackwelder/AllTrails
A small parking area is at the trailhead with more parking about a half-mile down the road.
A steep set of stairs starts you out with some switchbacks and well-marked blazes on the trees.
Mary Parker Blackwelder/AllTrails
Look for a few primitive camping spots, and by primitive it means you carry everything in.
William Papin/AllTrails
This is the last camping area before the falls.

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A few steep cliffs to watch out for lead to the top, and lots of amazing views with cascades all along the trail.
Joe Barrett/AllTrails
We think these falls are quite spectacular.
When you get to the end of the trail, look left for the giant rope to repel down the steep slate rock to get to the upper pool.
Francesca Petraglia/AllTrails
From there you can swim in the upper pool and slide down the lower falls into the lower pool.
The pools are deep and the bottom swimming hole is bigger than an Olympic-sized pool, with both pools offering floating, swimming, and diving.
Dylan Lipps/AllTrails
The upper part of the falls cascades into a deep pool where you can do a cannonball.
You can also hike down a short steep trail to get to the lower pool.
William Papin/AllTrails
This cool, natural swimming experience is so much fun. Pack some food and enjoy the lovely view.

For more information about this swimming hole with a waterfall in North Carolina, visit the Wilson Creek Wild and Scenic River Area’s web page.

And while you’re in Collettsville, you must see the Collettsville Cup House,  covered from top to bottom with thousands of coffee mugs.

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Harper Creek Falls, Edgemont Rd, Collettsville, NC 28611, USA