Sugar Hollow and Blue Hole
A local gem offering an easy hike to a crystal-clear swimming hole and scenic river spots. Perfect for families and nature lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Sugar Hollow and Blue Hole
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A local gem offering an easy hike to a crystal-clear swimming hole and scenic river spots. Perfect for families and nature lovers.
"This place feels like a dream, a magical, deep, and crystal-clear swimming hole."
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail can be rocky and uneven in places. Good hiking shoes are a must for a comfortable experience.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
There are no facilities on the trail, so pack essentials for your hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Blue Hole
End of Moorman's River Trail
A crystal-clear, deep swimming hole perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.
Moorman's River Trail
Starts past Sugar Hollow Dam
An easy, relatively flat 1.5-mile hike with smaller swimming spots and beautiful riverside scenery.
Sugar Hollow Reservoir
Near the trailhead
A picturesque reservoir offering a scenic starting point for your adventure and a peaceful spot to relax.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Trail Etiquette and Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail can be rocky and uneven in places. Good hiking shoes are a must for a comfortable experience.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
There are no facilities on the trail, so pack essentials for your hike.
🗑️ Pack It In, Pack It Out
Help keep this beautiful spot pristine by taking all your trash with you.
🐍 Be Snake Aware
Especially in warmer months, keep an eye out for snakes on the trail.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail can be rocky and uneven in places. Good hiking shoes are a must for a comfortable experience.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
There are no facilities on the trail, so pack essentials for your hike.
🗑️ Pack It In, Pack It Out
Help keep this beautiful spot pristine by taking all your trash with you.
🐍 Be Snake Aware
Especially in warmer months, keep an eye out for snakes on the trail.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome and often enjoy the water! +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sugar Hollow and Blue Hole for its natural beauty and family-friendly atmosphere. The easy trail and refreshing swimming holes are major highlights, making it a beloved local spot for a casual outdoor adventure. Some note that while the destination itself is lovely, the motorcycle ride to get there is also a significant draw for some.
"A great local trail. Always beautiful, and the kids love having fun in the water on the way. If you don’t want to get wet, you can usually find a crossing using rocks as stepping stones. Beautiful!"
Woodness Goodness
"Great views and wonderful trails"
Heather Reese
"Easy .6 mile walk to a great little river where all the kids can play and swim.
Just went again today. It's a great place to swim after a little hike."
Victor Castro
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sugar Hollow and Blue Hole are located about 15 miles northwest of Charlottesville, VA. The drive typically takes around 30-40 minutes. Many visitors enjoy the scenic motorcycle ride on the way up, noting the great curvy roads.
Yes, there is a nice parking area at the Sugar Hollow Dam, which serves as the trailhead for the Moorman's River Trail.
Yes, the relatively flat stretch of road along the Moormans River to Sugar Hollow Reservoir is suitable for biking and is a low-traffic area.
Public transport options are limited for reaching Sugar Hollow. It is best accessed by private vehicle or ride-sharing services.
The most common route involves heading northwest from Charlottesville towards Crozet, then following local roads towards the Sugar Hollow Dam. The journey itself is often described as beautiful.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Sugar Hollow and Blue Hole are natural areas and do not require tickets for entry. Access is generally free.
As a natural area, Sugar Hollow does not have official operating hours. Visitors can typically access it from dawn until dusk.
There is no entrance fee for the Sugar Hollow Trail or the Blue Hole. It's a free public access area.
Yes, the Blue Hole is a popular spot for swimming, especially during warmer months.
Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles, pack out trash, and be respectful of the natural environment and other visitors.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to the Blue Hole is an easy, relatively flat 1.5-mile walk along the Moorman's River Trail. It's considered an easy hike suitable for most fitness levels.
Yes, along the Moorman's River Trail, you'll find several smaller splashing spots and swimming holes before reaching the main Blue Hole.
Absolutely! The easy trail and the opportunity to play in the water make it a great destination for families with kids. +1
Expect beautiful riverside views, lush greenery, tall trees, and the sound of flowing water. The trail is lined with wild berry bushes in season.
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome on the Sugar Hollow Trail and often enjoy swimming in the river. +1
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, soft lighting for photos. The vibrant blue of the water is a key feature.
The Blue Hole itself, the rocky riverbanks, and the reflections in the water are prime photography subjects. Don't forget the scenic drive to get there!
A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive river views, while a polarizing filter can enhance the blue of the water and reduce glare.
Capturing dogs playing in the water or families enjoying the river can add a dynamic element to your photos. +1
Experiment with different angles, including from slightly above the water's edge, to showcase its depth and clarity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐶 Dog Owners
🚗 Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike to the Blue Hole
As you venture deeper, the trail meanders alongside the Moorman's River, showcasing the natural beauty of the area. Keep an eye out for wild berry bushes, which add to the scenic charm, especially when in season. The trail is well-maintained, making it easy to navigate. Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to cross the river using stepping stones, adding a touch of adventure to the hike. The overall experience is one of peaceful immersion in nature, making it a beloved local spot for outdoor recreation.
Swimming and Water Activities
Beyond the main Blue Hole, the Moorman's River offers a series of smaller, charming swimming spots and shallow areas ideal for children to play in. These smaller pools provide a more relaxed and accessible water experience for younger visitors or those who prefer calmer waters. The rocky riverbanks offer natural seating and a place to relax after a swim. Remember to exercise caution and supervise children closely around all water bodies.
The Scenic Drive
This picturesque route winds through the natural landscapes surrounding Charlottesville, offering glimpses of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The low-traffic nature of the roads in this area adds to the sense of escape and tranquility. It's a drive that complements the natural beauty of the hiking and swimming destination, enhancing the feeling of a true outdoor adventure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit