Natural swimming hole
The Sinks - Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Waterfall · Tennessee
About this swimming hole
The Great Smoky Mountains' most famous swimming hole, where the Little River pours through a narrow rock chute into a deep, swirling pool. Generations of Knoxville and Townsend kids have launched off the rocks here. The water is mountain-cold even in August - that's the point.
Good to know
| Water type | Waterfall |
|---|---|
| Depth | up to 10 ft |
| Best season | May-September |
| Fees | Free; park entrance fee |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Daylight hours |
| Parking | Small roadside lot; fills fast |
| County | Blount County |
| Nearest town | Townsend |
| Safety notes | No lifeguard; powerful hydraulics in the chute; jump only in the pool |
Map
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in The Sinks - Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Yes — The Sinks - Great Smoky Mountains National Park is listed as a natural swimming spot in Tennessee. Heads-up: No lifeguard; powerful hydraulics in the chute; jump only in the pool. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does The Sinks - Great Smoky Mountains National Park require reservations?
No reservations are required at The Sinks - Great Smoky Mountains National Park based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit The Sinks - Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Reported fee info: Free; park entrance fee. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit The Sinks - Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
The best season is typically May-September.