Midnight Hole

Overview

Midnight Hole is the Big Creek crowd‑pleaser: a clear, cold, green pool tucked beneath a 6‑foot waterfall and framed by house‑sized boulders. It’s a classic Smokies cool‑off spot that feels wild but is easy to reach, which is why it’s beloved—and popular on warm days.

Getting There

Access it from the Big Creek area (reached via I‑40 Exit 451/Waterville Rd). The road into the area is mostly gravel and ends at the Big Creek parking lots near the ranger station, picnic area, and restrooms. A park parking tag is required when you’re parked more than 15 minutes—sort that out before you hit the trail.

The Hike In

Follow Big Creek Trail about 1.4–1.5 miles one way along a wide, gently graded former railroad bed. Around 1.5 miles, look for a small white circle painted on a tree to the right of the trail—the pool is just below on the left via a short, rocky spur. Expect a brief scramble down to the water. This is a horse trail, and per park rules, dogs aren’t allowed on it.

What You’ll See (and Do)

Water squeezes between two big boulders into a deep, green pool—the deepest stretch of Big Creek here. People often jump from the rocks, but conditions change with rain; never dive, and don’t jump unless you can clearly see your landing. The water stays bracingly cold even in summer.

Don’t Get Confused

Locals often say “Midnight Hole” for the swimming spot, while a separate, smaller cascade called Midnight Hole Falls (aka Bettis Branch Falls) sits a short walk downstream. Your target for swimming is the boulder‑rimmed pool at the main spot.

Extend Your Day

Keep hiking another ~0.5 miles to Mouse Creek Falls, a photogenic 45‑foot waterfall with a signed horse‑rail overlook area. The entire outing makes a mellow, rewarding half‑day.

History Flavor

You’re walking an old narrow‑gauge logging line from the early 1900s, later converted by the Civilian Conservation Corps into today’s trail. It’s why the grade is easy and the tread is wide.

Wildlife

Big Creek’s lush corridor is good for spotting deer and other common woodland wildlife, especially in the quieter morning hours. Share the path courteously with horses.

Best Times to Visit

Aim for early mornings or weekdays for elbow room. Summer weekends bring swimmers and picnickers, and the pool area can feel busy by midday. After major storms, check NPS updates for any road or trail changes before you go.

Practicalities

• Restrooms and picnic tables are at the parking area, not at the pool.
• Wear grippy water shoes—the spur and stream rocks are slick.
• Pack out everything. No glass at the creek.
• Depth and currents vary after rain; use caution if entering the water.