Go north on RT 27 out of Chattanooga to the intersection with RT 153. Go 2.8 miles more on RT 27 (not the freeway; Dayton Pk.) to Montlake Rd. at a signal where a sign says "Montlake Country Club". (Well before you get to Soddy Daisey). Go west (left) on Montlake Rd. Go 1.1 miles on Montlake Rd. to sign that says "North Chickamauga CREEK GORGE". Turn left here down gravel drive and straight continue ahead to the far west end of the large gravel area and park.

The trail to the swimming hole(s) begins at the far west end of the parking area. The trail is very large - large enough to drive a car through, but it is blocked off. Follow the trail upstream and you will begin to see swimming holes after about 10 minutes. Eventually the trail will take you across the creek. After you cross the creek, you will come to the first large swimming hole: PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO , PHOTO .

The 1-plus mile walk to the "blue hole" is an easy hike and takes about 30 minutes and will lead to a very large rock with a cliff on the other side. The cliff has a tree with boards nailed to it. Photos of "Blue Hole": PHOTO , PHOTO

I received this clarification from a fan: "This is actually series of good swimming spots. In the section beside the dirt road, there are numerous small holes suitable for splashing around (some are deep enough to swim in). After crossing the creek, there are at least 2 blue holes large enough for serious swimming. The first is the one mentioned with the rope swing, tree and boulder overlooking a deep pool -- this pool is perhaps 25 feet across in either direction. The second pool is really amazing. also on your right off the trail, after the first one, between a large cliff 100 feet or so tall and a large boulder (maybe 15 feet tall above the water) perfect for sunbathing, jumping off, or apparently for drinking beer on (litter can be a problem) -- the hole is crystal clear and at least 15-20 feet deep at its deepest point."Courtesy of swimmingholes.org