With summer temperatures creeping into the forecast you can bet there are some really hot days in store for all of us. Fortunately you can escape to the mountains to find relief from those oppressive heat waves. Even better, you can leave your wallet at home because these refreshing water adventures won't break the bank.Splasheville - Asheville's newest interactive water fountain is located in downtown Asheville in Pack Square Park. With arching sprays of water that fly up randomly this is a perfect way to get soaked and cool off. Let the summer sun dry you off while relaxing on the rolling green field that the park provides. The fountain runs from 8 AM through 8 PM.
Sliding Rock - Take water sliding to a whole new level. This 60 foot all natural water slide has been providing entertainment long before water slides were standard fare. There is a $1 fee to help maintain the area so be prepared for this nominal cost.
Secret Swimming Holes - Shhhh... Don't tell anyone I told you this. If this gets back to me I'll deny it. Check out these great swimming holes around the Asheville area.
- Looking Glass Falls - Just down the road from Sliding Rock, off U.S. 276 heading south off the Blue Ridge Parkway, the base of this 80-foot falls is popular for cooling off and wading. Caution should always be exercised around the falls.
- Graveyard Fields - A short hike through native rhododendron takes visitors to the falls where large slabs of rock become choice spots for sunbathing or picnicking. A short distant further, the Yellowstone Prong of the Pigeon River becomes shallow, slow and lazy, dotted with small gravel islands that make it a cooling off spot for even the youngest family members. Parking is located at mile marker 418 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, about 40 minutes from Asheville.
- Carolina Hemlock Campground - Along the South Toe River you'll find a campground where adults and children can cool off in the chilly water that comes off Mt. Mitchell, the highest peak in the Eastern U.S. Large slabs of rock are ideal for sunbathing or jumping, as the deepest part drops to 14 feet. The river runs along NC 80 North off of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
