It goes without saying that there are countless hidden spots throughout the Bluegrass State that only the locals know about -- like today's feature destination: Gabe's Branch Falls in Kentucky. Some of these have been "discovered" and others haven't, and then there are those that are hard to track down, so they just don't attract many visitors. No matter the situation, we love to share these hidden gems in the hope that those who are truly motivated to see them can seek them out and enjoy the place in a respectful manner. That is the hope with this little hike that leads to one of the best swimming holes in Kentucky. Gabe's Branch Falls is a bit off the beaten path but this refreshing hike leads straight to a beautiful waterfall that's perfect for swimming on a hot day in Kentucky.

If the most hidden spots are also the most rewarding, then Gabe's Branch Falls is definitely worth seeking out.

It's located off a mountain road that alternates from paved to dirt and nothing about it is clearly marked. However, if you follow the link below, detailed directions are provided.

Once you park off the gravel road and make your way along the trail, you'll see that you begin along a ridge that looks down on the water.

The views through this wooded mountainside are spectacular all year long, but this spot is especially popular for cooling off in the summer.

The flow of the creek depends on the recent weather, but it's always a relaxing place to escape into nature.

Part of the trail follows along the creek and the entire area is worth exploring. While it's obvious where the trail has been blazed in the past, keep in mind this is not an official path, but one made over years and years of use.

When you hear the rush of the water, you know you're right above the waterfall.

You can (carefully) look over the edge here and get a unique perspective of the falls.

In fact, you can also get a view from the top of the falls, but again be sure to be extra cautious.

If the water is flowing forcefully, this is definitely not recommended. All around the trail and the falls, you'll want to be sure to use common sense and also keep the area clean as if you were never there.

The path does lead down to the base of the falls, where you can get a closer look at the turquoise water.

It's easy to see why this has long been a favorite local swimming hole in Kentucky. The surrounding rock formations make the perfect pool and the water gently gets deeper, until it eventually reaches a depth of 8-10 feet.

Once you've reached the rocky bank of the creek's pool, go ahead and cool off on those hot days.

The water is often a tropical shade of blue and is a great temperature in the heat, thanks to the mountain creek.

As one of the best swimming holes in Kentucky, you may run into a few others at Gabe's Branch, but many times you'll have it all to yourself. That is, if you can find this hidden gem in the mountains of this scenic area of our state.

The refreshing hike to Gabe's Branch Falls has been a local favorite for generations and this hidden gem is definitely one of the best swimming holes in Kentucky -- and as a bonus, it's a waterfall swimming hole, too! If you choose to visit, as with every spot in our beautiful state, be respectful and leave no trace of your adventure. Are you from this area and have you explored this swimming spot and waterfall? Share your experience with your fellow waterfall chasers in the comments section below!

For directions and more information on the falls, visit the Kentucky Swimming Holes website. The Harlan County website also shares some information on the trail at their official website.

Special thanks to Patricia Miniard Rigney, AKA Greasy Creek Gal, for the use of many of these photos. See more of her Kentucky adventures in this area on her Facebook page.

And while you're in the area, be sure to visit the highest point in Kentucky, featured in a previous article that will surely inspire your next bucket-list-worthy adventure in the Bluegrass State!