South Yuba River State Park

Who doesn't love a good secret swim spot? There's something extra magical about it: the cool, fresh water, the peace and quiet of the woods, the bubbling waterfalls and smooth pools... plus you don't have to worry about getting splashed by pesky kids hopped up on sugary Popsicles doing cannonballs into the deep end. It's how nature intended swimming to be: relaxing and refreshing. You can find them hidden in forests and parks all across America, and one of the country's coolest is located inSouth Yuba River State Park. Of course, like most good hidden swimming holes, you'll have to do a little work to get there, but the hike through the river is worth it-- and kind of fun in its own right. The stream is strewn with boulders that make the hike an exciting challenge. These boulders and rocks are what make the swimming holes as well. Even though the park is a local favorite, especially as the dog days of summer hit, there are so many secluded spots, nooks, crannies, and coves, that you'll feel like you discovered the place yourself! A few tips for hiking up the river: The best time is summer and early fall-- the water will be really high and running very fast in the spring and early summer, making the hike more difficult and potentially more dangerous. Wear sturdy waterproof shoes. You're going to be trekking through the river and up, down, over, under, and around rocks, and the right footwear can help make the hike more pleasant. You'll also want to pack water, snacks, and sunblock, since there's not a ton of shade along the river. And if you're bringing a picnic, a camera, or anything else you need to keep dry, make sure to bring a waterproof bag. Also, pack as light as possible! You might find yourself regretting bringing along a huge cooler halfway through the hike. And remember to leave yourself plenty of time to hike to a good location, relax a bit, and hike back. If you have any time left over, the park has more than just swimming holes. There's a historic covered bridge, one of the last of its kind, along with several other 19th-century bridges, plus the river was a popular spot to prospect for gold during the Gold Rush of 1849. Try your hand at being a Miner '49er with a demonstration that shows you how to pan for gold. Even if you don't strike it rich, you'll definitely still have a good time exploring the park and all it has to offer! -Roadtrippers This 20-mile portion of the South Yuba River canyon stretches from Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park to Bridgeport covered bridge. The area includes the longest single-span covered bridge in the world, the steep rugged canyon of the South Yuba River, and the Independence Trail — the first identified wheelchair-accessible wilderness trail in the country.  South Yuba River State Park offers many scenic vistas. Visitors can view fast water pouring over massive granite ledges in the spring and warm, slow moving emerald swimming holes during the late summer.