Midnight Hole is one of the most beautiful swimming holes in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and after visiting for more than 17 years, it's still one of our favorite places to spend a summer day.
Located in Big Creek along the Big Creek Trail near the North Carolina-Tennessee border, Midnight Hole features a deep, crystal-clear pool beneath a picturesque six-foot waterfall that's surrounded by massive boulders and lush forest.
The hike to Midnight Hole is relatively short and family-friendly, making it one of the park's most popular destinations for swimming, relaxing by the water, and enjoying the beauty of Big Creek. Whether you're planning to take a refreshing dip on a hot afternoon or simply want to experience one of the Smokies' most iconic natural attractions, it's easy to see why so many people return year after year.
As mountain locals, we've visited Midnight Hole countless times in every season and have watched it change over the years. In this guide, we'll share everything you need to know before you go, including the hike to Midnight Hole, parking information, swimming safety, what to expect, and the latest updates that could affect your visit.
Updated 6/30/2026 - New content, formatting, and photos.
Need to Know |
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Location: Big Creek Area, Great Smoky Mountains National Park |
Accessible: No |
Dog Friendly: No - Dogs are not allowed on the trails |
Distance: 2.8 miles |
Difficulty: Moderate |
Features: Swimming, jumping, creek-side hiking, lots of photo opportunities, and wildflowers |
Directions: Take I-40 to the Waterville Road Exit (#451). Turn left after crossing the Pigeon River and proceed 2.3 miles to an intersection. Continue straight through, pass the ranger station, and you'll arrive at a large parking area at the road's end. Just before you enter the parking lot, you'll see the Big Creek trail head to your right. |
Hurricane Helene Impact
In late 2024, Hurricane Helene brought severe flooding and damage to the Big Creek area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Big Creek Trail and the surrounding area were hit hard—floodwaters washed out a 70-foot steel bridge located about five miles up the trail and caused extensive erosion and trail damage beyond Mouse Creek Falls.
As a result, both Big Creek and Big Creek Trail were closed for several months. The area has since re-opened to visitors, but Big Creek Trail is currently only open to Mouse Creek Falls. The section of trail beyond that point remains closed until further notice because of safety concerns and ongoing repairs.
Midnight Hole itself was also affected by the flooding. While the trail leading to it is open, the powerful floodwaters appear to have altered the area around the swimming hole. During our most recent visit, there were 2-3 fallen trees on the beach area (see photo above), the flooding washed away, and much of the rocky beach area. As a result, the beach area is now smaller. The deep swimming area below the falls is still there, but appears to be not as large nor as deep as it once was.
During our visit, a large tree had also fallen across the large rock to the left that people often jumped from.
If you plan to visit, the hike to Midnight Hole and Mouse Creek Falls is still a beautiful and worthwhile adventure—just be aware of the limited trail access and ongoing restoration efforts beyond that point.
Our Midnight Hole Videos
Here is our latest video, highlighting damage and affects of Hurricane Helene:
Here are our other videos from our visits to Big Creek and Midnight Hole
Midnight Hole
Midnight Hole NC is probably one of the most scenic and beautiful natural swimming holes in the Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The water is crystal clear, and the waterfall surrounded by huge boulders makes for a natural place to swim, jump, and cool off in the hot summer. Jumping from the rocks into the pool is a very popular activity for the younger crowd.
Midnight Hole is often very busy, especially between 10am and 4-5 pm. The water and rocks are full of families, teens, and adults. It isn't uncommon for there 50-100 people there on a summer weekend day.
The water is pretty cold, but very crisp and refreshing, especially after the 1.4 mile hike in.
Hiking to Midnight Hole
Midnight Hole is in the Big Creek area of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, on Big Creek Trail. The trailhead begins on the road, just before the parking area, on the right. You'll pass the trailhead on your way to the park.
Come prepared! Be sure to review our Day hiking Essentials before hitting the trail.
Big Creek is often very busy during the summer, and if the main parking area is full, you can drive back down the entry road and park in the horse camp parking area. Just be sure not to block in any of the horse trailers.
There is a trail from the bathroom area to the trailhead. There are also bathrooms in the main parking area.
Big Creek trail up to Midnight Hole is an old railroad grade, and not steep, but it is a gradual climb all the way up to Midnight Hole, at 1.4 miles in. Along the way, you'll hike creekside to Big Creek, which is gorgeous.
You can't miss Midnight hole, as you'll either hear the people swimming, yelling and having fun.
The trail is also heavily travelled up to Midnight Hole. You'll likely encounter lots of people and families walking on the trail, either going to or coming back from the falls.
You'll know you're close to Midnight Hole when you cross a small wooden bridge. To get to the falls/swimming area, just walk down the narrow path to the left. The trail is rocky, so young children will probably need some help.
See our full guides to more than 40 waterfalls in the Blue Ridge Mountains, on our Waterfalls Page. Information, Directions, Photos, Video, and more!
Things to do at Big Creek and Midnight Hole
Next to the parking lot is a really nice picnic area next to Big Creek. This is a great place for families with younger children, as the water is a great depth for wading and splashing.
Midnight Hole has more shallow areas as well, but few. Most of the water areas in Midnight Hole are 1-2 feet deep 2 feet, minimum, and the current is fairly strong, so small children should be watched closely.
Big Creek Trail is an old railroad grade that was used to haul timber and lumber during the logging boom, prior to the area becoming a national park. Horses are allowed on the trail, and while we haven't seen any the times we've been there, we would recommend watching where you step, just in case!
Mouse Creek Falls
If you hike up the trail another 1/2 mile, you'll come to Mouse Creek Falls. The falls are 41 foot high, and just beautiful to see and take pictures of.
Where to Stay When Visiting Midnight Hole
Historic Downtown Waynesville, NC
If you're planning to visit Midnight Hole, we recommend staying in either Waynesville or Maggie Valley, North Carolina. As mountain locals, we've spent years exploring this part of the Smokies, and these two towns offer the best combination of convenience, lodging options, and things to do. In fact, they are where we live.
Waynesville
Waynesville is our favorite base for exploring the eastern side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Its charming, walkable downtown is filled with locally owned restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, and unique boutiques, making it a great place to unwind after a day on the trail. You'll also be within easy driving distance of Midnight Hole, Cataloochee Valley (home of the Elk), Waterrock Knob, and many other Smoky Mountain attractions.
Maggie Valley
Located just a few minutes closer to the park, Maggie Valley offers a quieter mountain-town atmosphere with a wide variety of hotels, cabins, and vacation rentals. It's an excellent choice if your primary focus is hiking, scenic drives, or exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You'll also find several local restaurants, shops, and easy access to the Blue Ridge Parkway.
No matter which town you choose, you'll be less than an hour from the Big Creek area, making either one an excellent home base for your Smoky Mountain adventure.
