Swimming Holes of California: Day Trips With a Splash

A backcountry tip sheet on where to jump into more than 100 secluded waterfalls, remote two-person tubs, hidden pools throughout the Golden State. All of them are at least six feet deep. All are in creeks and rivers less than three hours from the trailhead. Each entry lists expectation of privacy along with a photo and topographic map with GPS waypoints. Icons indicate the best season to visit, the difficulty of approach, and the overall rating, whether fair, good, excellent or classic. Dog owners can tell at a glance if four-legged hikers are appropriate. Families with small children can easily determine if the journey is a good one for the little dippers.