Highlands, NC sits at the headwaters of the South, where cool mountain streams feed some of the region’s most inviting swimming holes and waterfalls. With pristine waters and stunning scenery, each spot offers a unique way to experience the natural beauty of the southern Appalachians.
Bust Your Butt Falls (Quarry Falls) is a roadside favorite on Highway 64, featuring a natural slide and deep pool perfect for cooling off.
Nearby is Cliffside Lake Recreation Area, which boasts its own beach and swimming area, making it ideal for summertime shenanigans with the kids.
For a serene river swim, locals love the calm waters beneath the Old Iron Bridge, where the Cullasaja River widens into a peaceful stretch ideal for wading and floating. Nearby, Sliding Rock in Cashiers is another natural rockslide that offers fast-paced fun in icy mountain water—perfect for summer heat.
Glen Falls, a three-tiered waterfall, features a refreshing plunge pool at the bottom that’s worth the scenic hike. For a local favorite waterfall plunge, head down NC-28 and follow the gravel road to Secret Falls. Although this swimming spot is no longer a secret, its secluded location offers the idyllic mountain swimming experience.
