Sapphire Valley Swimming Holes

Directions to Sapphire Valley Swimming Holes, NC

Overview:
The Sapphire Valley Swimming Holes are located near the towns of Brevard, Sapphire, and Asheville in North Carolina. These swimming holes include Rainbow Falls, Turtleback Falls, and Hollow Falls. Please note that Drift Falls is closed to the public and is private property. Always exercise caution when hiking, swimming, or sliding near waterfalls, and be mindful of wildlife and natural hazards.

Option 1: Access via Gorges State Park (Recommended Route)

1. From Brevard: Take US Route 64 (RT 64) southwest for approximately 18 miles.
2. Turn left (south) onto NC Route 281 (RT 281).
3. Drive approximately 1 mile, then turn left into Gorges State Park.
4. Follow the park road to the end of the road, where you will find a parking area with trailhead information and restrooms.
5. From the parking area, take the Grassy Ridge Access Trail to the falls. The hike to Rainbow Falls is approximately 1.5 miles and is considered moderate to strenuous. You will encounter the falls in reverse order: - Hollow Falls (first) - Rainbow Falls - Turtleback Falls (last)

Important Notes: - This route provides official access to the falls and includes maintained trails. - The hike is more challenging than other access points but offers a rewarding experience. - Parking is free, and the area is well-marked.

Option 2: Access via Church Parking Lot (Alternative Route)

1. From Brevard: Take US Route 64 (RT 64) southwest for approximately 18 miles.
2. Turn left (south) onto NC Route 281 (RT 281).
3. Drive approximately 0.5 miles, and park in the church parking lot on the right-hand side of the road. (Note: This is not an official parking area, so use discretion and respect private property.)
4. Walk back to NC Route 281 and turn right.
5. Continue walking past the entrance to Gorges State Park until you reach a gated area. The gate is marked for state employees only, but visitors often walk around it to access the trail.
6. Follow the trail downstream along the river to reach the falls. This route is less official and may not be as well-maintained.

Important Notes: - This access point is less formal and may not have amenities such as restrooms or trail markers. - Be respectful of private property and avoid blocking access when parking.

Swimming Holes and Waterfalls

Rainbow Falls - Located approximately 1.5 miles downstream from the Gorges State Park parking area. - Features a large pool at the base of the falls, with rocks for sunbathing nearby. - The pool is at least 8 feet deep, but swimming conditions depend on water flow. Use caution if the flow is high. - The trail to Rainbow Falls runs parallel to the river, about 50 feet from the water's edge.

Coordinates:
Latitude: 35.09056
Longitude: -82.96611
Google Maps Link

Turtleback Falls - Located just downriver from Drift Falls (which is closed to the public). - Known for its natural rock slide into a pool below. Sliding is possible but extremely dangerous due to the small size of the pool and hidden hazards like submerged debris. - Exercise extreme caution, especially during high water flow. - Can become crowded on weekends.

Coordinates:
Latitude: 35.0925
Longitude: -82.9664
Google Maps Link

Hollow Falls - Located approximately 0.25 miles downstream from Rainbow Falls. - Features a small waterfall with a broad, deep pool and a smooth rock for sunbathing and diving. - Visitors can swim upstream to a rock ledge below the falls. From there, it is possible to slip behind the waterfall, but the surface is slippery—exercise caution. - Wildlife, such as snakes and crawfish, may be present in the area. Always remain alert.

Coordinates:
Latitude: 35.08893
Longitude: -82.96214
[Google Maps Link](http://maps.google.com/maps?&z=10&q=35.08893,-82.96214