Grafton Region Swimming Holes
Discover the best swimming holes in Grafton, WV! Dive into Fortney's Mill & Arden Falls for outdoor fun, scenic views, and refreshing waters. Safety tips included.
Location Details
Map & Directions
Discover Grafton Region Swimming Holes in West Virginia
Explore Fortney’s Mill: A Hidden Gem in the Grafton Area
Nestled along Three Fork Creek, Fortney’s Mill is a picturesque swimming hole featuring a waterfall and a natural sliding rock. Tucked beneath a highway bridge, this shaded oasis offers cool, refreshing waters perfect for a lively summer escape. Visitors can wade into the shallows or slide down rock formations smoothed by years of water flow.
Due to its popularity, especially in peak summer months, the area can become crowded. Visitors are advised to wear sturdy footwear to avoid injury from potential debris like broken glass and to bring trash bags to help maintain the site’s natural beauty.
Arden Falls: Tranquil Waters and Stunning Backdrops
Also known as Moats Falls, Arden Falls is another must-visit swimming hole in the Grafton area. Located along the Tygart River, this serene destination features large flat rocks ideal for sunbathing and jumping, as well as calm waters perfect for swimming. The lush vegetation surrounding the river creates a vibrant natural canopy, making this spot a haven for nature lovers and photographers.
While Arden Falls offers a more secluded experience compared to Fortney’s Mill, visitors must exercise caution due to strong currents in certain areas. Staying within calm waters is essential for a safe and enjoyable visit.
Best Time to Visit Grafton’s Swimming Holes
Seasonal variations bring unique charm to both Fortney’s Mill and Arden Falls. Summer months, particularly June through August, are perfect for swimming, with warm waters and lush foliage. Spring offers blooming wildflowers and higher water levels that enhance the waterfalls’ beauty. Autumn provides fewer visitors and stunning fall colors reflecting on the water’s surface, making it a peaceful time to explore.
How to Get to Fortney’s Mill and Arden Falls
Accessibility to these swimming holes varies. Fortney’s Mill is relatively easy to reach but lacks detailed signage, so visitors should plan ahead to ensure they find the location. Arden Falls, on the other hand, requires navigating winding roads and a bit more familiarity with the area. Neither site charges entry fees, making them budget-friendly destinations. For extended stays, camping facilities are available nearby at Tygart Lake State Park.
Safety Tips for a Carefree Day at Grafton’s Swimming Holes
Safety should always be a priority when visiting these natural sites. At Fortney’s Mill, be cautious of slippery rocks and hidden debris. At Arden Falls, avoid areas with strong currents and stay within the calm pools for swimming. Tragically, drownings have occurred in the area, emphasizing the importance of respecting the river’s power and staying vigilant.
The Geology and History of Grafton’s Aquatic Escapes
The geological formations surrounding Fortney’s Mill and Arden Falls are remnants of ancient riverbeds, shaped over centuries by the relentless flow of water. The Tygart River, a vital West Virginia waterway, has played a significant role in the region’s history, particularly in transportation and industry. Grafton, a former hub for the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, retains its historical charm, adding depth to your visit.
Nearby Towns and Attractions to Enhance Your Visit
The surrounding towns of Morgantown, Grafton, Philippi, and Arden offer rich cultural and historical experiences. Morgantown, home to West Virginia University, is a vibrant city with diverse dining and entertainment options. Grafton’s history as a railroad hub provides an intriguing backdrop, while Philippi’s iconic covered bridge is a historic landmark worth exploring. Together, these towns complement the natural beauty of the swimming holes, making the Grafton region a perfect destination for adventurers and history buffs alike.
Getting There
Directions to Grafton Region Swimming Holes
Location 1: Fortney’s Mill Swimming Hole
Fortney’s Mill is a popular swimming hole located in Three Fork Creek, a tributary of the Tygart River. It features a small waterfall, a sliding rock, and is situated under a highway bridge. Please note that this area can be crowded, and visitors should wear foot protection to avoid broken glass. It is also recommended to bring a bag for trash removal to help keep the area clean.
Driving Directions from Grafton:
- Begin in Grafton and head east on Route 50 (US-50).
- Continue on Route 50 until you reach Thornton.
- In Thornton, turn left onto Iron Town Road (County Road 7).
- Follow Iron Town Road north along Three Fork Creek.
- As you drive north along the creek, you will encounter several bridges crossing the creek. The swimming hole is located under one of these bridges.
Additional Notes:
- The exact location of the swimming hole is at latitude 39.420178 and longitude -79.883035. You can use this Google Maps link for precise navigation: http://maps.google.com/maps?&z=10&q=39.420178,-79.883035.
- Parking is limited, so plan accordingly. Be mindful of private property and park in designated areas if available.
Location 2: Arden Falls (Moats Falls) Swimming Hole
Arden Falls, also known as Moats Falls, is a popular swimming hole located in the Tygart River. The area features large flat rocks for jumping and calm water for swimming. However, visitors should exercise caution as certain areas of the river have strong currents. Stay in calm sections and avoid drifting downstream. Safety is paramount.
Driving Directions from Grafton:
- Begin in Grafton and head south on Route 119 (Beverly-Fairmont Pike).
- Continue on Route 119 through Webster.
- After Webster, turn left onto Arden Road (County Road 6).
- Follow Arden Road for approximately 3.5 miles. Be prepared for several twists and turns along the way.
- Turn right onto Laurel Creek Road (County Road 12).
- Proceed on Laurel Creek Road until you reach the bridge over the Tygart River at Arden.
Additional Notes:
- The swimming hole is located somewhere upstream or downstream of this bridge. The general area coordinates are latitude 39.21044 and longitude -79.9937. You can use this Google Maps link for navigation: http://maps.google.com/maps?&z=10&q=39.21044,-79.9937.
- Parking is available near the bridge, but spaces may be limited. Be mindful of private property and park responsibly.
- Exercise caution when swimming and avoid areas with strong currents.
Enjoy your visit to the Grafton Region Swimming Holes and prioritize safety and environmental responsibility during your trip!
Quick Navigation
Highlights
Unique Features
Location & Area Map
Safety Information
Important Safety Tips
Wear sturdy footwear at Fortney’s Mill to avoid glass and debris. At Arden Falls, stay in calm areas and avoid strong currents to ensure a safe experience.
Cultural & Historical Context
Historical Background
Grafton’s history as a Baltimore and Ohio Railroad hub adds a unique layer of significance, while the Tygart River reflects the region's industrial and natural heritage.
Photography Guide
Photo Opportunities
Capture waterfalls and sliding rocks at Fortney’s Mill, reflections and expansive scenery at Arden Falls, and wildlife in the surrounding greenery. Visit during golden hours for optimal lighting.
Conservation & Ethics
Protect This Place
Visitors should follow Leave No Trace principles by taking their trash, avoiding wildlife disturbance, and preserving the natural beauty of the swimming holes.
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Visit Information
Camping Information
Nearby at Tygart Lake State Park.
Nearby Attractions
- Tygart Lake State Park
- Philippi Covered Bridge
- West Virginia University in Morgantown
- Downtown Grafton’s historic sites
- Monongahela River activities
Weather Information
Weather data is currently unavailable for this location.
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