Creeping up to the edge of a minuscule cliff, I peered over to get a glimpse of my future. I observed over 10 feet of crystal clear water ready to catch me. The pristine liquid might as well have been on a Poland Springs commercial. I could count the number of pebbles lining the bottom as they provided perfect cushioning to catch my fall.

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Crashing through the crisp water, the pebbles absorbed my feet as I pushed against them, breaking the surface and grasping for air. The 10 foot drop created a disruption in the still water. It rushed around me, matted my hair against my head, and filled my ears. I catch a glimpse of my friends crowded around the shore along with about 35 other JMU students cheering on my “graceful” plummet.

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Talk about an adrenaline rush.

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This gem, blue hole, is one of Harrisonburg’s hidden beauties. It serves as a jumping hole, a local hangout, and a great place to enjoy a picnic on a Friday afternoon. Blue Hole is perfect for all ages. It provides great opportunities to make unforgettable memories. Don’t get me wrong. This is nothing like the Great Blue Hole in Belize. But, it is pretty high up on many daredevils’ list of ways to get an adrenaline fix in Rockingham County.

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The catch? You can only get the full effect that this top secret location has to offer during the summer and fall. In my opinion, going in October is the ideal time because the water is still warm, the sun is shining, and the leaves look spectacular. Even if jumping into bodies of water isn’t your thing, you can still scamper up the rickety wooden ladder that leads to the top of the rocks and capture an unforgettable Instagram.

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In all honesty I’m no adrenaline junkie. I am scared of heights. I am scared of fish. But, blue hole never makes me feel uncomfortable. Every time I go, the atmosphere is lively and energetic. Occasionally there is somebody playing a guitar or even blaring music from a portable speaker. There are always ambitious groups of boys competing for the highest jumps or even attempting backflips, getting roars from the crowd. Also, one can spot groups of girls catching rays on the sun absorbed rocks or wading in the shallow water. There is a dense forest that encloses the water hole, giving the entire swimming area a private feel. At blue hole, entertainment comes from all angles.

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The ambiance of blue hole is what makes the trip worth your time. It is about a twenty-minute drive from JMU. Street spots are the only option for parking, which is why I recommend carpooling. The first time I adventured here, I didn’t wear the appropriate shoes, so I didn’t jump off the rocks. Not everybody wears shoes, but I think it’s a safe bet wearing Chacos, Crocs, or water shoes of some sort. Some of the rocks can be sharp, and breaking through the water can be tough on your feet.

So, what are you waiting for? Embrace nature and visit this popular hangout before temperatures get too cold.

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For GPS directions enter these coordinates: 38° 45' 22.28", -78° 56' 15.68"