Here in Virginia, we love all things water-related. Whether that means a drive to the beach, a hike to a waterfall, or even a trek out to a natural swimming hole. In fact, these natural swimming holes are what tend to resemble paradise the most. That’s definitely the case with Devil’s Bathtub, a hidden gem deep within the woods of southwestern Virginia’s Jefferson Forest.
While Devil’s Bathtub is an incredible sight, hikers should know that it’s quite difficult to access and involves multiple stream-crossings. The area is most easily accessed by means of Devil’s Fork Loop Trail. Learn more about this incredible natural phenomenon and just how to get there:
Let’s See America/YouTube
Let’s See America/YouTube With its tropical-blue waters, Devil’s Bathtub in Fort Blackmore is by far one of the main motivations most hikers have in their quest of Devil’s Loop Trail. This natural swimming hole and water fall is worth all the strenuous activity it takes to get there. The trail can be accessed by means of State Route 619, and parking is very limited (approximately 14 spots).
Corrina Beall/flickr The hike meanders through forests of beautiful hemlocks and rhododendrons. You’ll want to keep an eye out for the yellow blazes, as the trail can be a bit difficult to see at times. About a 1/4 of a mile from the parking lot you’ll encounter your first stream crossing, so be sure to wear shoes that are comfortable and sturdy in the water. When the trail breaks off into two routes, taking the path on the left will be an easier trek.
Let’s See America/YouTube
Corrina Beall/flickr After just a mile and a half of hiking and a bit of rock scrambling, the path will clear into the trail’s main attraction: Devil’s Bathtub. As you can tell by the photographs, the tint of the water largely depends on the weather, but on clear days you’ll spot some of the bluest in the state. The trickling waterfall and crystal-clear tub will seem like a bit of paradise within the woods.
Corrina Beall/flickr
Corrina Beall/flickr Aside from the unique coloring of the water, one of the most fascinating parts of Devil’s Bathtub is the ability to see the unique rock formations below. It’s a great spot to splash around in after some backcountry hiking, but be prepared for temperatures a little cooler than the name “bathtub” might suggest.
Corrina Beall
Jason Horton/YouTube After marveling at the beautiful site of the lagoon, hikers can continue upwards on the trail for a breathtaking vision of a nearby waterfall. Continuing the entire loop will take nearly 7.5 miles. If you plan on hiking the duration of the trail, be prepared for more scrambling and be sure to pack plenty of water.
While Devil’s Bathtub is certainly a phenomenal spot to see, there are loads of other natural swimming spots that you should check out while the weather is still warm. If you’ve hiked Devil’s Fork Loop, be sure to share your experience there!
Let’s See America/YouTube
With its tropical-blue waters, Devil’s Bathtub in Fort Blackmore is by far one of the main motivations most hikers have in their quest of Devil’s Loop Trail. This natural swimming hole and water fall is worth all the strenuous activity it takes to get there. The trail can be accessed by means of State Route 619, and parking is very limited (approximately 14 spots).
Corrina Beall/flickr
The hike meanders through forests of beautiful hemlocks and rhododendrons. You’ll want to keep an eye out for the yellow blazes, as the trail can be a bit difficult to see at times. About a 1/4 of a mile from the parking lot you’ll encounter your first stream crossing, so be sure to wear shoes that are comfortable and sturdy in the water. When the trail breaks off into two routes, taking the path on the left will be an easier trek.
After just a mile and a half of hiking and a bit of rock scrambling, the path will clear into the trail’s main attraction: Devil’s Bathtub. As you can tell by the photographs, the tint of the water largely depends on the weather, but on clear days you’ll spot some of the bluest in the state. The trickling waterfall and crystal-clear tub will seem like a bit of paradise within the woods.
Aside from the unique coloring of the water, one of the most fascinating parts of Devil’s Bathtub is the ability to see the unique rock formations below. It’s a great spot to splash around in after some backcountry hiking, but be prepared for temperatures a little cooler than the name “bathtub” might suggest.
Corrina Beall
Jason Horton/YouTube
After marveling at the beautiful site of the lagoon, hikers can continue upwards on the trail for a breathtaking vision of a nearby waterfall. Continuing the entire loop will take nearly 7.5 miles. If you plan on hiking the duration of the trail, be prepared for more scrambling and be sure to pack plenty of water.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
