by Justin “BRGGSY” Briggs

The infamous “Cleo’s Bath” swimming hole is one of Northern California’s most sought after secret aquatic adventures. But at this time of the year and during the drought, this famous relaxation oasis is a little dry. There are a couple pools of standing water in which people were swimming in. Only small drops of water falling from the river above.

The main cliff diving spot was completely dry. You can tell that this place was is a great place to go to during the summer because there was about 25 people all swarming around what little water there was available to swim in.

My girlfriend and I took the plunge on August 16th, 2014, into the odd looking green water as we attempted to salvage what was left of this swimming trip. Although the water looked murky, everyone seemed to enjoy the 5 foot drop into the water. Even though we went there for the swimming, we realized that the hike down the long trail and up into the mountains was one our favorite parts. You hike around the lake for about 1 mile, then you hike up into the hills for about 3 miles with gorgeous panoramic scenery of mountains and forests below.  If you don’t enjoy the water, the hike will definitely make this journey worthwhile.

After seeing this euphoric swimming hole drained and lifeless, this should be a reminder to all of us that we should be conserving our water. Everyone attempting to help conserve water in any form possible, even if it is taking shorter showers or turning off the water while brushing our teeth, every last drop can help us through this drought and hopefully next year, this iconic Pinecrest wonderland will be flourishing with waterfalls and adventurers.

Report from earlier this year when the water was still flowing:

Best Swimming Holes in CA: Cleo’s Bath & a Fake Turkey Sandwich