When temperatures rise in North Carolina, we tend to seek out ways to cool off. Taking a dip in a cold mountain waterfall is a sure way to ease the effects of hot summer days this year, but you don’t have to wait until the sweltering days of summer to enjoy a waterfall hike – especially when the swimming hole is as jaw-dropping gorgeous as this one.
Midnight Hole is a locals favorite that’s hidden deep in the woods in the Smoky Mountains.
TripAdvisor/Staci R Any time of year, the water in this emerald lagoon is nearly as cold as ice, making it an ideal spot to cool off. During the summer months, you’ll share this little lagoon with plenty of people who’ve already found it, so prepare to make some new friends.
Midnight Hole is found along the Big Creek Trail.
alltrails/James Smith The trail leads to yet another waterfall farther along the trail at the two-mile mark. The emerald lagoon known as Midnight Hole is found just 1.5 miles into the trail.
The picturesque hike is on mostly flat terrain and follows along Big Creek.
alltrails/Nen Morgan Enjoy the scenery and the pretty hike as you get occasional glimpses of the creek along the way.
Kids of all ages do well on this hike, even though it’s longer than most.
alltrails/Carol Ann Shipley The trail can get a little busy in the summer months. Two waterfalls on the same trail tends to be a must-see for many.
You’ll see the lagoon through the trees upon the approach.
alltrails/george williamson The glistening emerald green water and the small waterfall that drops into the lagoon are undeniably gorgeous.
Midnight Hole is wonderful for swimming and rock hopping.
TripAdvisor/TajMahalPrincess Bring the kids and enjoy some swimming in a cold mountain lagoon.
You never know what you’ll find along the trail in the mountains of North Carolina and an emerald lagoon is really unique. Have you hiked to Midnight Hole before? We’d love to hear all about your experience (and see your photos) in our comments!
TripAdvisor/Staci R
Any time of year, the water in this emerald lagoon is nearly as cold as ice, making it an ideal spot to cool off. During the summer months, you’ll share this little lagoon with plenty of people who’ve already found it, so prepare to make some new friends.
alltrails/James Smith
The trail leads to yet another waterfall farther along the trail at the two-mile mark. The emerald lagoon known as Midnight Hole is found just 1.5 miles into the trail.
alltrails/Nen Morgan
Enjoy the scenery and the pretty hike as you get occasional glimpses of the creek along the way.
alltrails/Carol Ann Shipley
The trail can get a little busy in the summer months. Two waterfalls on the same trail tends to be a must-see for many.
alltrails/george williamson
The glistening emerald green water and the small waterfall that drops into the lagoon are undeniably gorgeous.
TripAdvisor/TajMahalPrincess
Bring the kids and enjoy some swimming in a cold mountain lagoon.
Midnight Hole is accessible via the Big Creek Trailhead near Waynesville, North Carolina. A map with the location of the trailhead can be found here. Learn more about the hike from those who’ve already made the trek, in the comments at this link on alltrails.com!
If you love exploring waterfalls, then here is The Perfect Weekend Itinerary For Exploring Waterfalls In North Carolina!
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Address: North Carolina, USA
