The Aquamarine Water At This Secluded Swimming Hole In Virginia Is Worth The Hike

After a long, tough day of hiking, there's nothing better than taking a quick dip to cool off and relax. Of course, most hiking trails don't come with their own swimming pools attached. If you want to cool off after a hike, you're usually going to have to find a swimming spot on your own. But in a few rare cases, nature does provide a nice spot to hop in the water after you've been out on the trail all day. are not only great spots to get some much-needed relaxation — they also add a level of unique beauty to the natural scenery around them and provide one-of-a-kind photo opportunities. 

The most incredible swimming holes around the world are as famous for their picturesque qualities as for their swimming opportunities. Some natural swimming holes have been world famous for a while, but others are only now seeing . One of the best lesser-known swimming holes, both for swimming and for extraordinary beauty, is . 

Despite its foreboding name, the Devil's Bathtub is probably the closest thing to heaven you'll find after hiking for several miles through Virginia's Appalachian Mountains. According to local accounts, the Devil's Bathtub earned its name from its pristine waters, supposedly cold enough to Hikers certainly appreciate this after . But even if you're not planning on taking a swim, the pool's unique charms make for memorable sightseeing. The Devil's Bathtub contains that shine out in the surrounding forest like a gem, adding a striking layer of beauty to the already beautiful scenery of Virginia's rugged Appalachian region. 

The Devil's Bathtub lies in a secluded area of southwestern Virginia's, in the heart of Virginia's magnificent Ridge Mountains. Even without any gorgeous natural pools, this area of Virginia is ripe for amazing hiking adventures. The region's many trails pass , , and even . The famed , making the area a perfect stop on an ideal Blue Ridge Parkway Appalachian getaway. 

The Devil's Bathtub is located in Virginia's Scott County, . Unfortunately, getting to the Devil's Bathtub is not exactly an easy feat. The Devil's Fork Trail to the swimming hole , and . The waterways that formed the swimming holes frequently flood the trail . So, you're likely to get wet even if you're not planning on swimming. 

Still, if you can make it through , you'll be rewarded with one of the most incredible sights Virginia has to offer. At the trail's climax, scenic waterfalls cascade down  and cut through . The resulting pools flood with the stream's natural, clear waters. That to create the distinctive shade of aquamarine that makes the Devil's Bathtub and its surrounding pools so memorable. Admiring these exquisite natural pools from afar would be rewarding enough, but if you're a bit sweaty, you can change into your swimming gear and hop into the cold water for before the hike back. 

In recent years, the Devil's Bathtub has seen , . While this fame is certainly warranted, it has led to some unfortunate consequences for the swimming hole and the surrounding trail. has resulted in excess litter, environmental damage, and irresponsible behavior from visitors. If you're planning a future hiking trip to the Devil's Bathtub, make sure you enjoy the trail responsibly. 

The first step is safety. While the trail to the Devil's Bathtub is not one of the top most dangerous hikes in the United States, it is still . Prepare to scramble over rocks, cross muddy streams, and climb up and down steep slopes. The water in the pool, as pretty as it is, . So make sure you bring enough drinking water to get you through the full 7 miles. 

Many sections of the trailhead , and trespassing has become an issue. Upon arrival, , and respect any "No Parking" signs. Finally, always pack away all of your litter to on the trail itself. This way, you can help ensure the Devil's Bathtub stays clean and pristine for future visitors.