Banner Elk, Beech Mountain, Blowing Rock, Boone, West Jefferson, Wilkesboro, Blue Ridge Parkway

NC High Country Where to Swim


NC High Country Where to Swim

Even though the temperatures average in the 70’s during the summers here in the High Country, jumping in the cold mountain water can be hard to resist! Here is a list of where the locals like to swim:

Boone Fork Trail Blue Ridge Parkway

Boone Fork Trail
Blue Ridge Parkway MP 296.5

This trail has lots of little swimming holes located on paths off the trail, some 8 feet deep. Some have slippery rocks that you can slide down at your own risk. The falls are located 25 feet down the trail from the Julian Price Park picnic area

Wildcat Lake Banner Elk NC High Country Where to Swimming

Wildcat Lake
Banner Elk NC

The 13-acre lake is the centerpiece of a public-access facility that includes a white sand beach, swimming pier and fishing dock. The most popular activities at Wildcat Lake are swimming, sun bathing, fishing and boating. Lifeguards are on duty during summer hours. Boating is limited to non-motorized boats along with canoes and kayaks.

The North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission stocks the lake with bluegill, largemouth bass and three varieties of trout. Fishing is open seven days a week from dawn to dusk, and NC state fishing licenses are required for those who wish to fish.

Many people say Wildcat Lake reminds them of an old-fashioned swimming hole, and it draws upwards of 20,000 visitors each summer.

An adjacent park (Tufts Memorial Park) provides a bath house, picnic tables and three picnic shelters, all open to the public at no charge. Alcoholic beverages and pets are prohibited.

The park is open seven days a week, weather permitting. The park and lake are owned and maintained by the Grandfather Home for Children. There is no charge to use any of the facilities, although donations are greatly appreciated.

Blowing Rock NC Swimming Pool

Blowing Rock NC Swimming Pool

The only public outdoor pool in the area, Robbin's Pool at Broyhill Park opens Memorial Day week and is open through Labor Day.  The pool is great for all ages. There is a baby pool area with a water feature, and a large water slide for kids. For adults, there is a lap swim section that is open for adults only at certain times.