There are countless beautiful, peaceful, refreshing hikes in West Virginia. But at the top of the list, there’s one clear stand-out: Glade Creek Trail in the state’s New River Gorge region. Follow this beautiful waterfall trail and you’ll find cascade after cascade, plus multiple swimming holes as well! Follow along to discover just a few of the Glade Creek falls and those refreshing, aforementioned Glade Creek Trail swimming holes!

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Visit the National Park Service website to learn more about camping, exploring, and navigating the area. Download a trail app to make it even easier!

As a bonus, if you hike the entire length of the GCT, you’ll cross right under the highest interstate bridge in America!

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Glade Creek Swimming Holes

What are some other beautiful West Virginia swimming holes?

There are so many refreshing West Virginia swimming holes where you can cool off on a hot summer’s day! Here are a few:

  • Blue Hole is probably the most famous – it’s located near Morgantown and draws plenty of swimmers to its blue-green waters each year. It even has a sandy stretch of beach to enjoy.
  • In the tiny town of Arden, you’ll find a bunch of swimming holes along the Tygart River.
  • At the base of Seneca Rocks, there’s a scenic swimming hole that’s perfect for younger kids because of its shallow entry, although it does have deeper waters as well.

 

Looking for an especially unique way to cool off? Check out these waterfall swimming holes in West Virginia.

Where else can I go swimming in West Virginia?

Serene pools, crystal clear lakes, fun-filled waterparks, and more can all be found waiting for you to make a splash in West Virginia. At Bavarian Inn in Shepherdstown, you’ll find an infinity pool with a lovely river view. Meanwhile, Sutton Lake in Braxton and Webster Counties has a white sandy beach and gorgeous waters for swimming and boating.

Check out these six great swimming spots in West Virginia for more ideas for beating the summer heat.

What are some other scenic hikes I can take in West Virginia?

The Mountain State is bursting with gorgeous natural scenery, from the aforementioned mountains to rivers and forests and more.

  • The Endless Wall Trail might just be one of the most beautiful hikes in the entire state, traveling through the forest along the rim of the New River Gorge and offering some amazing views along the way.
  • Bear Rocks Trail, located in Bear Rocks Preserve, takes you up onto the plateau above the Canaan Valley and features some unique rock formations.
  • In Babcock State Park, take the Island in the Sky Trail for a short, easy hike with stunning views at the end of West Virginia’s thickly forested mountains.

 

And for more hikes to add to your bucket list, visit our guide to these easy West Virginia hikes with amazing payoffs.

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