Swimming holes by town
Swimming Holes in Townsend, Tennessee
4 natural swimming holes
Swimming around Townsend, TN means options — 4 natural swimming holes make our directory for this corner of Tennessee. Plan around May-September — that's the best season named in most local listings. The listings span Blount and Blount County. Worth a first look: The Sinks - Great Smoky Mountains National Park, plus Townsend Wye - Great Smoky Mountains National Park nearby. Between them they cover 2 rivers, and 2 waterfalls. One note: Abrams Falls - Great Smoky Mountains National Park carries a caution safety flag on its listing — check it before planning a swim.
Swimming holes in Townsend
- The Sinks - Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains' most famous swimming hole, where the Little River pours through a narrow rock chute into a deep, swirling pool.
- Townsend Wye - Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Where the Little River meets the Middle Prong, the Wye forms a wide, sunny swimming and tubing confluence beloved by Townsend locals.
- Abrams Falls - Great Smoky Mountains National Park
A 20-foot waterfall in Cades Cove with a broad plunge pool that draws swimmers despite the park's warnings about its powerful, deceptive currents.
- Middle Prong Little River (Tremont)
The Middle Prong of the Little River tumbles past the Tremont area of the Smokies in a series of cascades and calm, deep pools.
Frequently asked questions
How many swimming holes are in Townsend, TN?
Our directory lists 4 natural swimming holes in and around Townsend, Tennessee, across Blount, Blount County. New spots are added as they're verified.
What kinds of swimming holes are in Townsend?
The 4 listings cover 2 rivers, 2 waterfalls. See each listing for details on access and conditions.
Which swimming hole near Townsend should I try first?
The Sinks - Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a well-documented local listing. The Great Smoky Mountains' most famous swimming hole, where the Little River pours through a narrow rock chute into a deep, swirling pool. Full details, maps, and safety notes are on its page.
When is the best time to swim near Townsend?
Local listings most often name May-September as the best season. Spring runoff can make rivers and creeks dangerously high — check local conditions before you go.