Life today is fueled by technology, aided by gadgets and gizmos, surrounded by man-made attractions and facilities. The bounty of our natural habitat and the glories contained therein, have taken a back seat, or been forgotten. Even outdoors, we are beset by laptop, GPS, cell-phones with apps, music gadgets etc. that serve to insulate us from our surroundings. There is nothing more real than nature, where everything we need to refresh, rejuvenate and revitalize ourselves is ever-present.
One such experience is abundantly available through a swimming hole. These hidden, pristine natural bodies of water each with diverse characteristics are a true back-to-nature experience. Connecticut offers an infinite variety in beautiful settings that are balm to body and soul. A cool swimming hole or warm hot spring in a river, creek, spring or waterfall can be a wonderful complementary component of more strenuous outdoor activities.

MOUNT HOPE BROOK: this swiftly flowing brook located in the Mansfield Hollow State Park, with its wide, flat area upstream, is gentle enough for wading and small children. Further downstream there are small waterfalls, natural Jacuzzis, eddies and large flat boulders for lounging and sun-bathing. There is one deep pool where swimming is possible all day in the sun-warmed waters under the Atwoodville Bridge.

SCANTIC RAPIDS: the Scantic Rapids are found in an undeveloped part of the Scantic River State Park, known as Powder Hollow, the former site of a gunpowder manufacturing company. When the river is in moderate spate, the rapids can be ridden downstream, ending in the pool near the bridge. This is a popular local spot.

SATAN'S KINGDOM STATE RECREATION PARK, near New Hartford has popular tubing run, in the Farmington River, negotiating beginner to expert class whitewater rapids, through Satan's Kingdom Gorge, a steep drop. There are some calm, wide, swimmable sections.

SAUGATUCK RIVER: At one point, the river suddenly disappears into a canyon. Here is a pool, waterfalls, and rocks to dive from. This is an unmarked park. The depth of the pool varies substantially with the uneven river-bed. The water is cold, even in the summer, as it wells up from the bottom of the reservoir. A great place for bathing or basking in the natural scenery.

STAMFORD HOLE: In a small city park, a short trail from the parking lot leads to a dam. The swimming hole is created by the dam. This park now requires a resident "beach sticker" parking pass from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Swimming is still free. Nonresidents can purchase a day parking pass.

The following safety precautions are vital:

. Wear life-jackets and other protective gear
. Do not dive in headfirst
. Do not jump in without checking depth and currents
· Do not swim alone
· Do not drink alcohol before swimming.
· Do not go barefoot
· Do not stand directly under a water fall
· Do not swim in upper pools of a waterfall
· Do not climb above or alongside a waterfall
· Do not try to stand in strong currents; float on your back with feet downstream until current subsides.
. Do not go in if you see any tree branches or other debris in the water.
. Don't put your hands or feet into places you can't see 
· Be careful when on a rope swing 
· Be careful when swimming where alligators may be present 
. Learn about possible health hazards from amoeba and bacteria, poison ivy and other plants.
There are many other popular swimming holes dotted throughout the state in the many rivers lakes, streams, creeks and brooks. A comprehensive list with specific information on each: the location, directions, accessibility, type of water, water features, activities, applicable fees, levels of difficulty, recommended clothing etc. are to be found on the website swimmingholes.org. The information and photos in this article are kind courtesy of Tom Hillegass and Dave Hajdasz, webmasters, co-creators of this site and explorers extraordinaire of our natural habitat.