Dupont State Forest Swimming Holes, Western Nc

Tucked into the rolling mountains of Western North Carolina, the swimming holes of DuPont State Recreational Forest rank among the most spectacular natural escapes in the entire Southeast. Fed by the cold, clear waters of the Little River, this network of waterfalls and pools rewards visitors with a rare combination: dramatic cascades, swimmable pools, and trails that wind through some of the most lush and diverse forest in the Southern Appalachians. Best of all, entry is free.

The Setting and Landscape

DuPont's landscape feels almost cinematic — and it has been, appearing in several major film productions over the years. Hemlocks and hardwoods press close to the riverbanks, their roots threading through mossy boulders worn smooth by centuries of moving water. The forest floor hums with birdsong and the rustle of wildlife moving through dense undergrowth. Six waterfalls are accessible within the forest, and the geological variety here is striking: some falls pour over broad shelves of granite into wide, flat pools ideal for wading, while others drop dramatically into deeper hollows carved by the relentless force of the Little River. In autumn, the hillsides ignite with color, and even in winter, when the crowds thin to almost nothing, the forest carries a quiet, elemental beauty.

Swimming in the Little River

The water here is quintessential mountain cold — refreshing to the point of shock on a hot July afternoon, and deeply satisfying because of it. Hooker Falls, the most accessible of the group, spills into a broad, calm pool that's shallow enough for young children to splash in near the edges and deep enough in the middle for adults to swim out and feel the mist of the falls on their faces. Triple Falls and Wintergreen Falls, reached by moderate hikes, draw visitors who want a bit more solitude in exchange for the effort. The water runs exceptionally clear over smooth river rock, and the pools are naturally shaped by the varied geology of the gorge — each one slightly different in depth, width, and character. Swimming here is unofficial and unsanctioned, so there are no lifeguards on duty; visitors should exercise their own judgment about water conditions and supervise children carefully.

Practical

Directions to DuPont State Forest Swimming Holes, Western NC Hooker Falls Access (Primary Parking Area for Multiple Falls) From Hendersonville: Take I-26 to Exit 49B for US-64 West toward Hendersonville. Continue on US-64 West for 2.4 miles to North Church Street/Business US-25 South. Turn left onto North Church Street and drive 0.6 miles south. Turn right onto Kanuga Road and continue for 11 miles (Kanuga Road becomes Crab Creek Road). Turn left onto DuPont Road. Follow DuPont Road for 4.2 miles, keeping right as it becomes Staton Road. Look for the Hooker Falls parking lot on the right, just before the Little River bridge. Parking and Trail Details: The Hooker Falls parking lot provides access to five waterfalls: Hooker Falls, Triple Falls, High Falls, Grassy Creek Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. For Hooker Falls (a popular swimming hole): From the parking lot, walk around the gate and follow the dirt road to reach the falls. For Triple Falls, High Falls, Grassy Creek Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls: From the south side of the parking area, take the stairs up to Staton Road, carefully cross the road, and follow the trail signs. The hike is approximately 3.5 miles round trip and includes all four falls. Latitude/Longitude for Hooker Falls Parking Lot: Latitude: 35.20236 Longitude: -82.61890 Google Maps Link Guion Farm Access (Trailhead for Wintergreen Falls) From Hendersonville: Follow the directions above to Crab Creek Road and DuPont Road. After turning onto DuPont Road, drive a short distance and turn left onto Sky Valley Road. Continue on Sky Valley Road for 1.3 miles to reach the Guion Farm Access parking area. Parking and Trail Details: The Guion Farm Access parking area provides access to Wintergreen Falls. Wintergreen Falls offers swimming and wading opportunities and is accessible via a 3-mile round trip hike. Follow the trail signs from the parking area to reach the falls. Latitude/Longitude for Guion Farm Access Parking Lot: Latitude: 35.21485 Longitude: -82.58770 Google Maps Link Helpful Notes: Parking areas can fill up quickly, especially during weekends and holidays. Arrive early to secure a spot. Trails are well-marked, but it’s recommended to bring a map of DuPont State Forest for reference. Wear sturdy footwear and bring water, as some trails involve moderate hiking. Swimming holes and falls may have slippery rocks—exercise caution near the water. Enjoy your visit to DuPont State Forest and its beautiful swimming holes!

DuPont State Recreational Forest sits conveniently close to several Western North Carolina towns worth building a trip around. Brevard, the nearest and most charming, is just a short drive away and offers excellent restaurants, independent shops, and a vibrant arts scene. Hendersonville and Asheville are both within easy reach for those who want to combine a day at the falls with a broader mountain getaway, while the small community of Penrose sits practically at the forest's doorstep.

No entry fee. Parking is free but lots fill quickly on weekends and holidays; arrive early. Restrooms are available only at the Hooker Falls parking area. All swimming is unofficial and at your own risk; water levels and currents vary.

DuPont State Forest reflects the region’s commitment to conservation, with ties to the DuPont Corporation’s industrial legacy and local efforts to protect natural resources.

Follow Leave No Trace principles to protect wildlife and avoid damaging trails. Respect designated paths and avoid littering to preserve the ecosystem.