20 Superb, Secluded, Sometimes Secret Swimming Holes
"Located just off of the famous Route 66 in New Mexico’s arid climes is the Santa Rosa Blue Hole, a natural swimming hole that has a hidden system of underwater caves which were unexplored until 2013.
Like many natural pools of its kind, the Santa Rosa Blue Hole is a small body of water that seems to fill a surprisingly deep hole in the ground with shockingly clear waters. During the heyday of road-tripping families cruising down Route 66, the swimming hole was a popular oasis in the unbroken desert. The deep hole was also a favored spot for scuba divers until two young divers became trapped in the pool’s tight underwater caves. After their deaths in 1976, the entrance to the caves was covered with a metal grate and all but forgotten.
However, in 2013 a group of adventurous divers with ADM Exploration Foundation were allowed past the grate with the intention of mapping the system of unexplored caves. Their initial probing was stymied by decades of debris and too tight passages but the excavation continues with a careful eye towards safety lest further deaths close off the mysterious caverns for decades to come. It’s still unclear how far back the caves go." - ATLAS_OBSCURA
I was glad to see that they only have the $10 charge for parking on the weekends. There's also a fee for swimming, but I only wanted to make a quick trip to see the attraction.
The feature is so beautiful, with its deep, deep blue color!
Christina Carmichael
Google
This is a MUST for anyone traveling in the area. Is the water cold... YES! But it is the most refreshing thing to experience.
Our crew of five, including our 3 kids had an absolute BLAST. The area is well kept. Had tables so you are able to bring food, drinks and make a day of it! Water of the blue hole is STUNNING! Add this to your bucket list!
Errol Oguzhan
Google
Just went to check it out. Walked around the grounds for free just to see the layout. Would definitely come back to dive it when time allows. Water flows to a park downstream that was very crowded on a weekend but looked really fun. Be careful driving through town, speed limits are 25 mph and 15 mph and police are Very diligent in stopping you.
T C
Google
I heard about the Blue Hole as being a scuba diving spot for awhile now, and I finally got the chance to visit and dive here last year. The water is chilly, other divers are doing certifications here. The water is nice and blue and pretty clear until a lot of people show up. It has a nice big parking lot. Cheap for a diving pass.
Kelli Bryant
Google
The blue hole is a nice place to visit. There not too many people. The water is clear and there was ample parking and a few picnic benches. There is also a lifeguard on duty. Water is 61 degrees which is refreshing on a hot summer day.
Fiona Wilson
Google
Super pretty!! We only had time to stop and get a look, but if I went back I would definitely want to swim. There are places to jump in from rocky outcroppings (maybe an 8 ft. jump?) and a little stream to wade in. The water is gorgeous! Just as blue as expected. There is plenty of parking too.
Sarah Parr
Google
This was my first sinkhole experience in the USA, though I’ve been to plenty in Mexico. The water was very cold, but once I acclimated, it was a very refreshing way to start my day. This place is sacred I definitely recommend visiting, and with respect for this sacred water!
Lori Metcalf
Google
If you're traveling this is a must see! This natural spring might be cold but you will be glad that you stopped and enjoyed it as we did!