The Gorge Swimming Hole

This trail was one of the most fun I’ve ever had. Literally climbing through rocks and boulders was exhilarating. Don’t be afraid to climb into the water. I would highly recommend bringing a swim suit. Trust me, you won’t feel out-​of-​place, many others also had on swimsuits. The water is very clear and mind-​numbingly cold at first but after a while you get used to it. Once you reach the swimming hole, which wasn’t too far away, you are welcome to take a dip and swim around. There are even places to safely jump off of and into the swimming hole. I saw many big, balky men safely jump into the swimming hole without a mishap. Even during the drought the water was still pretty deep, going at around 7 to 8 ft at its deepest point. What I loved the most about this trail was that once you reach the swimming hole, behind it there is a small cave with water pouring down from a good-​sized crevice that was possible to climb through and more spectacular views of the river. This trail is a must-​see and not too populated. It was an extremely enjoyable experience. Also, if you are not into the whole climbing experience, as my boyfriend and I were hiking back along the river, we saw many groups of people circled around chatting in beach chairs inside the river.

Had an awesome time at the swimming hole. The cliff jumping spot isn’t too great cause it’s not too high and over looks some pointy rocks… but there’s a lot to explore. The waters a little chilly even in summer and the pool ca get a little over crowded, so make sure u get there early. it’s quite easy to find… follow the river on the side where the campsite is… it’s only a 10 to 15min hike.

Okay, the way to the actual swimming hole was more difficult than I thought. We were climbing through rocks, boulders, and logs. However, we made it to the swimming hole!
The water is freezing and numbing especially when we had to cross the river to get to the other side. We didn’t want to go through the water because it was so freezing, so we had to strategically go around the river. I would say that if you like challenges and climbing through boulders, this place is for you!
The area and seclusion is really nice though, and the rock formations around the swimming hole are fantastic!

Don’t ever come here. It’s very dangerous to reach and a man lost his life in the creek by the large rock.

If you are a Big Sur lover and love Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, then you will love this little trail. It’s great!
It doesn’t take that long to get here and the trail/​hike is not bad at all. Very easy, kids do it. The only thing is you will have to climb over some big boulders and tread through water. COLD water but that’s about it. The closer you get to the swimming holes, the colder it gets.
Hubby and I tried to do this hike in March but we had our dog, climbing over rocks where you need two hands was a big tricky so we gave up. We returned at the end of April and made it all the way with no problems. It was a gorgeous hot day. We got there around noon and we were the 2^nd ones there. jumped off some rocks, even snorkeled for a few minutes (as long as we could being that the water was so cold), there is lots of baby silver head bass (or something like that), got some good pics and good videos, then the people started showing up about an hour or so after got there. a few groups of people that don’t stay very long, they jump off rocks, drink a few beers then leave.
There was a beer can at the shore which immediately irritated me because I am a huge nature lover. A place this beautiful should NOT be trashed in such ways.
Anyway, the water is very very cold but feels absolutely great once you jump in. One of the holes with the TWO rocks, was a bit shallow, maybe 6 feet or so, so I jumped from the lower rock and hit the ground. I swam/​snorkeled through the 2^nd area where it’s much deeper and colder, jumped off that rock with no problem and never hit the bottom. I’d say it was 12 feet deep or so. Lots of fish and it was great.
I would definitely return… Oh and P. S. The review by Timothy J. is the way I was able to find it. Perfect directions.

A nice swimming hole that is not too difficult to reach. It is
inside the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. You will have to
pay $ 10.00 to get into the park. The swimming hole is
located about 0.6 miles from Lot #3. Park and follow
the paved path until you reach a plank bridge. Cross the
bridge and go through the campground until you reach
the trail. Keep to the right. You will need to cross the
river only once if you follow the trail on the right. The water
is great year round. The swimming hole can get crowded
so get there early! For some great photos see: