There are few better ways to savor the sweltering glory that is North Carolina summer than cannonballing into the closest river oasis.

Deep in the hills of the Piedmont, this expedition sometimes requires a substantial dose of creativity. I set out this summer to discover the secrets of some of our region’s most revered swimming holes.

It quickly became apparent that half of the fun was to be had in getting there, whether in marveling at the trailside wildflowers en route on foot, laughing with a fellow explorer at our shared navigational woes, or the gasps of delight when the canopy of pines finally parted for first glimpses of sun-streaked water.

Each watery grove offered welcome relief from the summer’s scorching heat. Children splashed triumphantly, hikers paused to dip in toes, dogs waded happily, and acrobatic thrill-seekers propelled themselves through the air to meet the cool water. The clamor of passing traffic was blissfully just beyond reach, leaving only the symphony of birdsong and gentle breezes to fill the air.

Like a front porch rocking chair, another favorite summertime destination, these are places best enjoyed when you kick your off your shoes and stay awhile.

This story was originally published August 22, 2023 at 1:02 PM.